A recent study published in the Journal of Vascular Surgery: Venous and Lymphatic Disorders has provided important insights into the long-term outcomes of mechanochemical ablation using the Clarivein device for the treatment of great saphenous vein (GSV) incompetence. Led by a team of researchers including Sharon Oud and Tamana Alozai, the study followed 109 patients over an average period of 8.4 years to assess both anatomical and clinical success rates.
The findings revealed that while the anatomical success rate—defined as complete occlusion or a recanalised segment of less than 10 cm—declined to 60.5%, the overall clinical outcomes and quality of life (QoL) metrics showed significant improvement from baseline measurements. Specifically, the Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) improved from 5.3 to 4.1, indicating a reduction in the severity of venous symptoms. Similarly, disease-specific QoL, as measured by the Dutch version of the Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire (DAVVQ), also improved significantly.
Despite the decrease in anatomical success over time, the researchers noted that improvements in clinical scores were primarily significant among patients who achieved anatomical success. Interestingly, the absence of reflux did not correlate more positively with clinical outcomes compared to recanalisation, regardless of reflux presence.
The study emphasises the need for ongoing evaluation of treatment methods for GSV incompetence, particularly in understanding the relationship between anatomical success and patient-reported outcomes. With this research, clinicians can better gauge the long-term implications of using the Clarivein device, offering a more comprehensive approach to patient care in venous disorders.
For more detailed insights, the full article is available online (DOI: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2024.101967).
