Both radiofrequency removal (RFA) and laser removal have been shown to be safe and effective treatments for varicose veins.
The National Health Coordination Organization based on evidence (NECA) published these results on Thursday, based on its reassessment of medical technologies for radio frequency removal and laser removal used to treat patients with veins.
Varicose veins are a vascular disease where the function of the valve in the surface veins of the feet decreases, causing the blood to flow back. This leads to abnormal dilation and twisting blood vessels. In 2023, about 400,000 patients in Korea were affected by varicose veins, with the condition being widespread between women and older adults.
Surgical stripping was the primary treatment in the past, but the less invasive methods such as radiofrequency and laser procedures are widely used.
NECA reviewed 59 studies to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of endogenous removal of radio frequency and laser vein removal. The results showed that both procedures rarely caused serious complications and showed treatment effects similar or superior to conventional surgical treatments or other treatments. Compared to surgical treatment, they led to shorter hospital stay and a faster return to daily activities, with high satisfaction with patients.
Radio frequency removal (RFA) uses radio frequency heat to fibrous and close the walls of the veins. It has shown a few serious complications, with complications related to the process at levels similar to other treatments. The vein closing rate ranges from 81.3 % to 100 %, comparable or better than other treatments, and generally showed similar levels of improvement of symptoms and quality of life.
The laser vein closure uses laser energy to close the blood vessels. Serious complications were rare and mostly manageable. The vein closing rate was similar or higher than other therapies in some cases and the results in relapse, improving symptoms and quality of life were generally comparable.
In addition, the results of patients’ research (catering group interviews) conducted alongside the review of the literature showed that most patients undergoing laser radio frequency or laser procedures responded that “their symptoms have been improved by the two and their symptoms”. However, patients reported the desire for detailed guidance on postoperative management, including pain and recovery.
“This assessment has confirmed that both laser veins and vein procedures are safe and effective treatments for patients with Chinese veins in the lower extremities and may be recommended for patients with confirmed Central Vein reflux,” said Kim Min.
