Is Endovenous Laser Ablation better long term than Radiofrequency Occlusion?

Is it true that radiofrequency occlusion is associated with a higher recurrence rate of varicose veins than endovenous laser ablation? I heard that there's a greater chance the vein would re-open with RO.

Answers from doctors (12)


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Oct 04, 2010

The long terms results are about the same for both. What method is used usually depends on physician preference.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

The long terms results are about the same for both. What method is used usually depends on physician preference.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Apr 02, 2010

All studies show that the results are the same. There is study that shows a slightly higher recurrence rate for radiofrequency vs. laser. However the study was not adequately powered to say there is a clear superiority of the outcome.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

All studies show that the results are the same. There is study that shows a slightly higher recurrence rate for radiofrequency vs. laser. However the study was not adequately powered to say there is a clear superiority of the outcome.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Miller Vein

Published on Mar 25, 2010

Overall the recurrence rate is about the same, with both modalities having a high success rate and low recurrence rate.

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Answered by Miller Vein

Overall the recurrence rate is about the same, with both modalities having a high success rate and low recurrence rate.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Innovative Vein

Published on Mar 23, 2010

Both methods are successful greater than 90% of the time. There are differing opinions on this and I wouldn't worry too much about which method is used. As long as the physician treating you has plenty of experience you should get a very nice result.

Answered by Innovative Vein (View Profile)

Both methods are successful greater than 90% of the time. There are differing opinions on this and I wouldn't worry too much about which method is used. As long as the physician treating you has plenty of experience you should get a very nice result.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


HealthQare Associates of Northern Virginia

Published on Mar 19, 2010

They both have extremely high success rate. It is probably more important
to find the right practitioner.

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Answered by HealthQare Associates of Northern Virginia

They both have extremely high success rate. It is probably more important
to find the right practitioner.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


General Vascular Surgery Group

Published on Mar 19, 2010

To my knowledge there is no data that suggests one treatment is better than the other. They both work well with similar results. I use both modalities frequently and tailor the treatment to the individual anatomy of the patient.

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Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group

To my knowledge there is no data that suggests one treatment is better than the other. They both work well with similar results. I use both modalities frequently and tailor the treatment to the individual anatomy of the patient.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Angelo N. Makris MD

Published on Mar 19, 2010

All studies show that the results are the same. There is study that shows a higher recurrence rate for radiofrequency vs. laser. However, there is a study that shows that radiofrequency has significantly less post-procedure pain and bruising compared to laser.

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Answered by Angelo N. Makris MD

All studies show that the results are the same. There is study that shows a higher recurrence rate for radiofrequency vs. laser. However, there is a study that shows that radiofrequency has significantly less post-procedure pain and bruising compared to laser.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Center for Venous Disease - Glendale

Published on Mar 19, 2010

Good question. The data that is credible (multi-center studies vs. single doctor) suggest RFA provides better long-term results, less pain, and less bruising.

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Answered by Center for Venous Disease - Glendale

Good question. The data that is credible (multi-center studies vs. single doctor) suggest RFA provides better long-term results, less pain, and less bruising.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialty Medical Clinic, Inc.

Published on Mar 18, 2010

Considering conflicting data, I believe that only those doctors who have experience with both treatments, can have a more clear idea about answering this question. In my opinion Laser Ablation works better. Especially when large varicose veins are treated.

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Answered by Vein Specialty Medical Clinic, Inc.

Considering conflicting data, I believe that only those doctors who have experience with both treatments, can have a more clear idea about answering this question. In my opinion Laser Ablation works better. Especially when large varicose veins are treated.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on Mar 18, 2010

Studies done show a success rate of 97% at six months for laser and 90% for radiofrequency occlusion. Yes, laser is more effective.

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Answered by Heart and Vein Center

Studies done show a success rate of 97% at six months for laser and 90% for radiofrequency occlusion. Yes, laser is more effective.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Mar 18, 2010

Yes. Data shows a slightly better long term success with laser likely with a little more discomfort and bruising.

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Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Yes. Data shows a slightly better long term success with laser likely with a little more discomfort and bruising.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


VeinCare Centers of Tennessee

Published on Mar 18, 2010

I have considerable experience with both techniques and do not think there is any significant difference in failure rates or recurrent varicose veins. The most important issues revolve around the skill and attention to detail of the person performing the procedure.

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Answered by VeinCare Centers of Tennessee

I have considerable experience with both techniques and do not think there is any significant difference in failure rates or recurrent varicose veins. The most important issues revolve around the skill and attention to detail of the person performing the procedure.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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