784 Safety and Efficiency of Trainee-Led Radiofrequency Ablation of Varicose Veins: A Single-Centre Retrospective Analysis

Résumé fourni par la source

Abstract Aim Day-case procedures such as Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) of varicose veins provide excellent opportunities for surgical trainees to improve skills and develop core competencies in Vascular Surgery. We aim to evaluate the comparative safety and efficiency of trainee led RFA procedures for symptomatic varicose veins. Findings are used to plan service provision and facilitate training opportunities for Vascular Registrars to meet Intercollegiate Surgical Curriculum Programme requirements for the management of superficial venous disease. Method Between July 2022and October 2023, Retrospective analysis of postoperative outcomes following 120 RFA procedures performed in a UK District General Hospital between July 2022 and October 2023. We assessed operative notes, postoperative outcomes, and re-attendances to Accident & Emergency. Results 90/120 (75%) were led by Consultant Vascular Surgeons and 30/120 (25) by Vascular Trainees with Consultant supervision. We found no significant difference in length of admission (7.35 ± 5.56 vs 6.56 ± 4.61, p=0.93), post operative VTE or Emergency Department attendance within 30 days of operation (3 vs 6, p=0.17) between the two groups. Findings were consistent when controlling for age, sex, ASA grade, anaesthetic type (local or general anaesthetic) or disease severity, as per Clinical, Etiology, Anatomy & Pathophysiology (CEAP) scoring. Conclusions Our analysis found that Vascular Trainee-led Radiofrequency Ablations showed non-inferiority to consultant-led procedures with no significant difference in length of admission, postoperative VTE or ED attendance within 30-days. Moving forward vascular departments should promote trainee-led operating lists as a means to maximise training opportunities with the reassurance of no detrimental impact on patient safety or experience.

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