[Modern aspects of varicose vein surgery].

In Germany almost every third adult suffers from varicose veins requiring treatment. Conventional varicose vein surgery by high ligation and stripping is widely accepted as standard therapy for saphenous vein insufficiency, although associated with a high frequency of recurrent varicosities. Innovative endovascular procedures laying claim to be minimally invasive have been implemented over the last five years: endovenous radiofrequency obliteration, endovenous laser treatment and ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy with foam. The early treatment outcomes are promising in regard to recurrent varicose veins, cosmetic results and convalescence. Evidence-based prospective trials with large numbers of participants comparing the interventional procedures with high ligation and stripping are still missing. This report delineates current developments in varicose vein surgery and provides information on principles, effectiveness and side effect profiles of endovascular therapy procedures.