Is endovenous laser ablation possible while taking warfarin?

The subgroup of patients with venous ulcers requiring anticoagulation for co-morbid conditions has traditionally created a therapeutic dilemma. Perioperative management of anticoagulation can be costly and increase the risk of surgical complications. This group of patients is often elderly and shows poor compliance with compression hosiery. The aim of this study was to investigate the outcome of endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) of the great saphenous vein (GSV) in patients remaining on therapeutic anticoagulation.

Fifteen consecutive patients (CEAP [clinical, aetiological, anatomical and pathological elements] classification 5 or 6) were treated with standard GSV EVLA using tumescent anaesthesia and a diode 1470-nm radial laser fibre while maintaining international normalized ratio at therapeutic levels. Clinical and duplex follow-up at six weeks and three, six and 12 months were performed.

The GSV was successfully occluded in 14/15 (93%) of patients. The remaining patient had a second successful treatment three months later. No significant complications requiring intervention were encountered.

EVLA using the diode 1470-nm radial fibre is efficacious with minimal complications in patients therapeutically anticoagulated. This treatment should be added to the armamentarium in this problematic patient group.