Shear wave elastography of dermal stiffness after radiofrequency ablation for great saphenous vein reflux: A 12-month prospective study.
PhlebologyAug 23, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchVascular Surgery
Cigdem Tel Ustunisik, Ozan Onur Balkanay, Berk Arapi et al.
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In 30 seconds
This prospective cohort study evaluated changes in dermal stiffness using shear wave elastography (SWE) in 47 patients after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for great saphenous vein reflux. SWE values decreased significantly from 19.13 ± 9.81 kPa preoperatively to 11.30 ± 6.62 kPa at 12 months (p < 0.001), while the Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) also improved markedly.
Key findings
- SWE values decreased from 19.13 ± 9.81 kPa preoperatively to 11.30 ± 6.62 kPa at 12 months (p < 0.001).
- VCSS improved from 4.04 ± 1.60 to 0.78 ± 0.74 (p < 0.001).
- Moderate correlation between SWE and VCSS at 12 months (ρ = 0.499, adjusted p < 0.001).
Why it matters
Understanding changes in dermal stiffness post-RFA can provide insights into tissue recovery in chronic venous insufficiency, potentially guiding follow-up care and treatment strategies.