What is the main consequence of having less than 1 cm between the heating element and the skin during EVTA?

Having less than 1 cm between the heating element and the skin during Endovenous Thermal Ablation (EVTA) significantly increases the risk of thermal burns. The proximity of the heating element to the skin amplifies the likelihood of excessive heat being transferred to the dermis and epidermis, leading to tissue damage.

In EVTA, the goal is to deliver heat to the vessel wall effectively while minimizing risk to surrounding tissues. The recommended distance helps ensure that the heat is concentrated on the vein, allowing for effective treatment while safeguarding the skin. Thus, maintaining an appropriate distance between the heating element and the skin is critical for patient safety and comfort. This understanding is crucial for practitioners to ensure that treatment is both effective and safe, minimizing the risk of adverse effects such as burns.