Complications of endovenous laser ablation

Abstract

Aim - the objective of this study was to evaluate the frequency, structure, and characteristics of endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) complications. Material and methods. This prospective study is based on the treatment of 1247 patients (1417 lower extremities) that have been operated at an outpatient basis. All the patients underwent EVLA at a wavelength of 1470 nm with automatic traction of a laser fiber. Complications of EVLA were divided into stochastic (developed without a clear reason) and determined (developed due either strategic or a technical errors). Results. Complications were registered in 69 (4.9%) cases of all the procedures in 1 months follow-up. Stochastic complications were: deep vein thrombosis (DVT) - in 1.6%, pulmonary embolism - in 0.07%, pain - in 1.4%, abscess - in 0.07%, seroma - in 0.2%. Determinedc complications were fragmentation of tip of radial fiber - in 0.14%, fragmentations of the laser fiber - in 0.14%, hyperpigmentation - in 0.14%, a skin burn - in 0.07%. Conclusion. Complications of EVLA are similar to those after any other interventions in patients with varicose veins. However, there are specific complications, such as endothermal heat-induced DVT.