Can you compare open surgery with minimally invasive (endovenous) treatment of varicose veins?
We have compared the minimally invasive endovenous techniques with open surgery under the following headings: • How does VNUS radiofrequency compare to open surgery? In well conducted studies comparing radiofrequency (RF) obliteration (VNUS)to standard surgery (such as the EVOLVeS study*) the clinical results of VNUS were at least as good as conventional open surgery. However, if quality of life outcomes are looked at (loosely equates to patient acceptability), endovenous surgery has the upper hand. In a small randomized study of patients having both legs treated for varicose veins one leg was treated with conventional surgery and the other with laser treatment. Following surgery the patient satisfaction questionnaires indicated that 70% preferred laser to surgery and only 10% reported that there was no difference. These results also reflect the conclusions in the EVOLVeS study with an earlier return to physical activity and return to work in patients undergoing VNUS treatment for thei
