Assessment of Outcome in Patients Undergoing Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation for Varicose Veins in a Community-based Hospital Using Venous Clinical Severity Score

Background: Varicose veins are one of the most prevalent conditions that significantly impact quality of life and can lead to severe complications if untreated. Endovenous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has emerged as a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgical treatments. This study evaluates the outcomes of RFA in varicose vein patients using the Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS). Methodology: A prospective observational study was conducted at Sundaram Medical Foundation, Chennai, over a 1-year period. Thirty patients undergoing RFA were assessed using VCSS preoperatively and at 1-month and 3-month follow-ups. Data were analyzed using paired t -tests to evaluate improvements in VCSS. Results: The mean preoperative VCSS was 11.17 ± 4.55, which significantly improved to 6.13 ± 3.80 at 1 month and 2.07 ± 2.59 at 3 months ( P < 0.001). Symptoms such as pain, venous edema, and skin pigmentation showed significant reductions. Among CEAP classifications, all C3 patients improved to C0, and 80% of C6 patients exhibited complete ulcer healing by the 3 rd month. Conclusion: RFA significantly improves symptoms and quality of life in patients with varicose veins, as evidenced by decreased VCSS and improved CEAP classifications. This minimally invasive procedure is effective for the management of varicose veins, providing a faster recovery with minimal complications.