title: Thermal ablation in the management of superficial thrombophlebitis.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  In superficial thrombophlebitis (ST), saphenous high ligation and stripping may be indicated. Endovenous thermal ablation (ETA) was hitherto not reported for ST management. We treated three ST patients using ETA and describe one in more detail.
  
  
  METHODS
  An 81 year-old man with ST at the medial lower leg and a refluxing GSV underwent ETA of the GSV. Since thrombi were present, the GSV was punctured at the inguinal crease and the laser catheter introduced caudad in order to prevent embolism.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  In ST, ETA might prevent thrombus expansion and embolism. However, this approach requires further optimisation and scrutiny.
authors.affiliation: Venenzentrum am See, Meilen, Switzerland. m.enzler@venenzentrum-am-see.ch
authors.forename: M A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Enzler
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Russell
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Schimmelpfennig
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012501:Saphenous Vein / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D013924:Thrombophlebitis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014463:Ultrasonography