High ligation of the saphenofemoral junction in endovenous obliteration of varicose veins.
BACKGROUND
Endovenous radiofrequency (RF) ablation of the greater saphenous vein has become an accepted treatment modality. This study examines if it is necessary to perform high ligation of the saphenous vein to insure success of the procedure.


METHODS
A retrospective chart analysis was conducted on 219 patients who underwent RF ablation for venous insufficiency. All procedures were performed by 3 board-certified vascular surgeons. One surgeon always ligated the saphenofemoral junction (SFJ), the second never ligated, and the third ligated selectively. Demographic data were collected and analyzed.


RESULTS
A total of 77 patients underwent RF ablation with ligation of the SFJ (group I), and 142 patients underwent ablation without ligation (group II). Both groups had similar ablation success rates (P = .0960), 92% (group I) and 84% (group II).


CONCLUSIONS
Saphenofemoral junction ligation is not indicated on a routine basis to achieve success with endovascular ablation of the greater saphenous vein.
Boros
Michael J
MJ
Kalamazoo Center for Medical Studies, Michigan State University, 1000 Oakland Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA. mboros_98@yahoo.com
O'Brien
Sean P
SP
McLaren
James T
JT
Collins
John T
JT
D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008026:Ligation; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012501:Saphenous Vein / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014648:Varicose Veins / Q000601:surgery*; D014656:Vascular Surgical Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects; D014689:Venous Insufficiency / Q000601:surgery*; D020246:Venous Thrombosis / Q000209:etiology