A Comparative Study on Early and Late Outcomes of Conventional Surgery and Radiofrequency Ablation for the Treatment of Primary Varicose Veins among Patients Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Background and Objectives-Varicose veins are a prevalent vascular condition affecting a significant portion of the population. Management has evolved from invasive surgical techniques to minimally invasive methods like Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA). This study evaluates and compares the early and late outcomes of conventional high ligation and stripping versus RFA in patients with primary varicose veins. To compare the clinical outcomes, patient comfort, and postoperative complications of conventional surgery and RFA in the treatment of primary varicose veins.

Methods: An interventional study was conducted over 18 months at JSS Hospital, Mysuru, involving 80 patients with primary varicose veins. Patients were randomized into two groups: Conventional Surgery (40 patients) and RFA (40 patients). Outcomes assessed included postoperative complications (hematoma, paresthesia, deep vein thrombosis), symptom resolution, hospital stay duration, and recurrence. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 28 with descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results- Younger patients (21–30 years) preferred RFA, while older patients (51–60 years) underwent conventional surgery. Male predominance was noted in both groups. RFA patients predominantly presented with dilated veins and skin changes, while conventional surgery patients had more advanced symptoms like edema and ulcers.   Hematoma and paresthesia were less frequent in the RFA group (5% and 2.5%, respectively) compared to the conventional surgery group (15% and 7.5%). No cases of burns or postoperative deep vein thrombosis were reported in either group.  RFA significantly reduced hospital stay, with 25% of patients discharged within 24 hours compared to none in the conventional surgery group.  No recurrences were observed in either group during the follow-up period. 

Conclusion:  RFA offers significant advantages over conventional surgery in terms of reduced complications, shorter hospital stay, and faster recovery, making it a preferred option for younger and middle-aged patients. However, conventional surgery remains a viable choice for advanced cases.