Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy of great saphenous vein with 2% polidocanol - One-year follow-up results

Abstract

Introduction: Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy (UGFS) of varicose veins is a useful treatment option. It is a relatively safe method in the case of limited, small varicose veins. In theory, a justifed concern could be raised that the injection of an active drug into the large superfcial venous vessels may potentially cause life-threatening consequences. Aim: To assess the safety and efcacy of UGFS using a 2% solution of polidocanol (Aethoxysklerol 2%) in the case of great saphenous vein incompetence. Material and methods: Fifty-two patients with great saphenous vein incompetence underwent ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy. The efcacy criterion was the elimination of re?ux measured ultrasonographically and withdrawal or decrease of complaints: 1 week, and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after the treatment. Complications of sclerotherapy were reported during follow-up. Results: Decrease or withdrawal of complaints of chronic venous insufciency was reported in 96% of cases (50 patients). Disappearance or decrease of varicose veins was noted in all patients (100%). During examination after 12 months, full success of ultrasound was achieved in 38 (73%) cases, and 11 (21%) patients presented a partial desired e?ect according to the consensus from Tegernsee. Persistence of re?ux longer than 1 s in the treated great saphenous vein was reported in 3 (6%) cases. Serious complications, such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, dyspnea, anaphylaxis, or neurological abnormalities, were not recorded. Conclusions: Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy of incompetent great saphenous vein and varicosities with 2% polidocanol was found to be an e?ective and safe method of treatment during 1 year of observation. However, longer observation is necessary.