In recent years, Drs. Andrew Jones and Edward Boyle of the Inovia Vein Specialty Clinics participated as investigators in the Vecolse Trial. Our patients often ask us for an update on the published data as it becomes available. An update of this study appeared in the Journal of Vascular Surgery, Venous and Lymphatics Disorders this month ( September, 2018, Volume 6, pages 606-613). The title of the study was “Twenty-four month results from a randomized trial of cyanoacrylate closure versus radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of incompetent great saphenous veins.” This is one of the largest long term randomized studies of patients seeking varicose vein treatments. The study authors include Inovia’s Dr. Andrew Jones. This data was originally presented as a podium presentation at the Charing Cross Symposium in London, United Kingdom, April, 2016.
Methods Comparing Varicose Vein Treatments
In this journal publication, the authors report on 222 patients with symptomatic great saphenous vein (GSV) incompetence. They were randomly assigned to receive either Venaseal (n = 108) or Closurefast (n = 114). Patients did not receive additional treatment of branch varicosities until after the 3-month visit. Patients had a duplex venous ultrasound of the target vein at day 3 and months 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 after treatment. The patients were studied for 24 months after treatment. Of 222 randomized patients, 171 completed the 24-month follow-up. This included 87 from the Venaseal group and 84 from the Closurefast group.
Study Results
The 24-month complete closure rate was 95.3% in the Venaseal group vs with 94.0% in the Closurefast group. Thus they have essentially equal outcomes for the closure. Symptoms and quality of life improved similarly in both groups. No clinically significant device- or procedure-related late adverse events occurred. The authors concluded both Venaseal and Closurefast were effective in closure of the target GSV, resulting in similar and significant improvements in the patient’s quality of life through 24 months. These results suggest that VenaSeal of the GSV is safe and durable out to 2 years.
Real World Experience
At the Inovia Vein Specialty Centers, we have long offered thermal approaches for vein ablation, such as Closurefast Radiofrequency Ablation. Likewise, we also offer non tumescent/non thermal techniques (known as NTNT) such as Venaseal and Varithena. “We aim to offer evidenced based choices for our patients seeking treatment for their varicose veins, whenever possible,” said Dr. Andrew Jones, a vein specialist at the Inovia Vein Specialty Centers and an author on this paper published in the Journal of Vascular Surgery this month. “Patients have different goals and considerations, and I find they appreciate hearing about a series of options for their treatments, so ultimately, they can choose an approach best suited for them personally. Above all, our goal is for patients to understand their choices, so they can make the most informed decision possible.”
Which Treatment is Right for You
To find out what is best for you generally requires a consultation with one of our specialists who will take your history, examine your leg veins, and advise accordingly. If you are interested in learning more about varicose veins treatment options, simply fill out our Online Appointment Request Form or call any of our clinics in Northwest Portland , Tigard, Happy Valley, Hillsboro or Bend, Oregon.