[Modern varicose vein surgery]

Varicose vein operations belong to the most commonly performed surgical procedures in Germany. Besides the classic operation employing modern technology, which shows manageable recurrence rates with good cosmetic results and must be considered as the established standard therapeutic procedure, endoluminal treatment methods (endovenous radiofrequency therapy, endoluminal laser therapy) have been increasingly used in recent years. The endoluminal treatment methods offer patients reduced post-operative pain and a shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgery. Unfortunately due to limitations caused by vessel diameter and the ability to probe the vessel, they are only available to a limited range of patients. It remains to be seen how these procedures compare to the classical techniques, in particular in regards to improving the long-term quality of life and recurrence rates. A further therapeutic option is chemical endoluminal therapy, catheter-assisted foam sclerotherapy. It can be used as a safe treatment option with good postoperative results in some cases. However, the primary closure rates are inferior to surgery and endoluminal procedures.