Objective To evaluate the efficiency and safety of combinative use of radiofrequency and transilluminated powered phlebectomy for treatment of varicose veins of lower extremity. Methods Three hundred and twenty-one cases of varicose veins of lower extremity were randomly divided into three groups: group A (102 cases)： endovenouser whole range closure in situ for great saphenous vein by radiofrequency and transilluminated powered phlebectomy for varicose veins of leg; group B (97 cases)： endovenouser whole range closure in situ for upper leg part of great saphenous vein by radiofrequency and transilluminated powered phlebectomy for varicose veins of leg; 122 conventional treatment cases, which high ligation and stripping of great saphenous vein, blood vessel branches and communicating branches resection and ligation were used, were selected as controlled group (group C). Consequences and complications of operation were checked. Results In all cases, the symptoms of swelling in lower extremity, soreness and infirmity disappeared within one month after operation, skin pigmentation was alleviated within one month after operation, and disappeared gradually within three months. Contrasting three groups in complications of skin numbness of legs, ecchymosis of upper leg, wound hematoma, and swelling below ankle, there was no statistical difference between group A and B, and there was statistical difference between group A and C, and B and C. There were more complications in conventional group than those in mini-invasive groups. There was no statistical difference in leg ecchymosisa between group B and C. No deep vein thrombosis of lower extremity and incision infection was detected in all cases. Conclusion It is simple and definitely efficient to combine radiofrequency with transilluminated powered phlebectomy for treatment of varicose veins of lower extremity. Powered phlebectomy is efficient in removal of varicose vein, but not suitable for phlebectomy for trunk of great saphenous vein.
