Escleroterapia con polidocanol en insuficiencia venosa superficial CEAP C1 / Sclerotherapy with polidocanol in superficial venous insufficiency CEAP C1

Insuficiencia venosa es definida como la patología que causa síntomas en los miembros inferiores, incluyendo edema, hiperpigmentación, lipodermatoesclerosis y ulceración e implica una anormalidad funcional del sistema venoso. Objetivo: Se compararon los resultados en cuanto a complicaciones y satisfacción reportada por las pacientes, con la Escleroterapia con Polidocanol utilizando aire y agua como diluyente. Métodos: Se incluyeron en el estudio a 60 pacientes del sexo femenino con diagnóstico de Insuficiencia Venosa Superficial CEAP C1, divididas en dos grupos, a las cuales se les aplicó Escleroterapia con Polidocanol mezclado con agua y aire. Se realizó seguimiento durante cuatro semanas donde se recogió la información del paciente con respecto a la mejoría de los síntomas antes de iniciar el tratamiento y los efectos adversos del Polidocanol con ambas terapias. Resultados: Dentro de las complicaciones de ambos tratamientos únicamente fue reportado el Matting en rango leve durante la primera semana. El único síntoma reportado como severo fue Dolor en la escleroterapia con polidocanol mezclado con aire. Los demás signos síntomas fueron reportados dentro del rango de moderado el cual descendió hasta leve entre la segunda y tercera semana, no encontrando reportes a la cuarta semana. La única complicación reportada fue el Matting en la escleroterapia con polidocanol mezclado con aire. Conclusión: No se encontraron diferencias significativas en grado de satisfacción con la eficacia del tratamiento, los efectos adversos, la forma en que se administra el medicamento entre ambos tratamientos de escleroterapia, oscilando los rangos de satisfacción entre el 43 al 70%. (AU)

Venous insufficiency is defined as the pathology that causes symptoms in the lower limbs, including edema, hyperpigmentation, lipodermatosclerosis and ulceration and implies a functional abnormality of the venous system. Objective: The results in terms of complications and satisfaction reported by the patients were compared with Sclerotherapy with Polidocanol using air and water as diluent. Methods: 60 female patients with a diagnosis of Superficial Venous Insufficiency CEAP C1 were included in the study, divided into two groups, to which Sclerotherapy with Polidocanol mixed with water and air was applied. A follow-up was carried out for four weeks where information from the patient was collected regarding the improvement of symptoms before starting treatment and the adverse effects of Polidocanol with both therapies. Results: Within the complications of both treatments, only Matting was reported in a mild range during the first week. The only symptom reported as severe was pain in sclerotherapy with polidocanol mixed with air. The other signs and symptoms were reported within the moderate range, which decreased to mild between the second and third week, finding no reports at the fourth week. The only complication reported was Matting in sclerotherapy with polidocanol mixed with air. Conclusion: No significant differences were found in the degree of satisfaction with the efficacy of the treatment, the adverse effects, the way in which the drug is administered between both sclerotherapy treatments, the satisfaction ranges ranging from 43 to 70%. (AU)

Safety and efficacy of a novel shunt surgery combined with foam sclerotherapy of varices for prehepatic portal hypertension: a pilot study

OBJECTIVES: This pilot study investigated the safety and efficacy of a novel shunt surgery combined with foam sclerotherapy of varices in patients with prehepatic portal hypertension. METHODS: Twenty-seven patients who were diagnosed with prehepatic portal hypertension and underwent shunt surgeries were divided into three groups by surgery type: shunt surgery alone (Group A), shunt surgery and devascularization (Group B), and shunt surgery combined with foam sclerotherapy (Group C). Between-group differences in operation time, intraoperative blood loss, portal pressure decrease, postoperative complications, rebleeding rates, encephalopathy, mortality rates and remission of gastroesophageal varices were compared. RESULTS: Groups A, B and C had similar operation times, intraoperative bleeding, and portal pressure decrease. The remission rates of varices differed significantly (p<0.001): one patient in Group A and 6 patients in Group B had partial response, and all 9 patients in Group C had remission (2 complete, 7 partial). Two Group A patients and one Group B patient developed recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding postoperatively within 12 months. No postoperative recurrence or bleeding was observed in Group C, and no sclerotherapy-related complications were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Shunt surgery combined with foam sclerotherapy obliterates varices more effectively than shunt surgery alone does, decreasing the risk of postoperative rebleeding from residual gastroesophageal varices. This novel surgery is safe and effective with good short-term outcomes.

Influência da escleroterapia ecoguiada com espuma de polidocanol na qualidade de vida na insuficiência venosa crônica de membros inferiores: resultados iniciais / Influence of polidocanol ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy on quality of life in lower extremity chronic venous disease: initial results

A insuficiência venosa crônica (IVC) não só representa um prejuízo na qualidade de vida (QV), como também gera um ônus aos recursos de saúde pública. A escleroterapia ecoguiada com espuma (EEE) vem se mostrando uma boa opção, porém, seu real impacto na QV ainda é incerto. Apresentamos aqui os resultados dos primeiros 27 casos de um estudo prospectivo longitudinal não controlado para avaliação da clínica e QV submetidos a EEE em portadores de IVC CEAP C4 a C6 com contraindicação de cirurgia convencional, com avaliação seriada da clínica por meio do Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) e da QV com o questionário Assessment of Burden Chronic Disease - Venous (ABC-V). Observamos redução do VCSS de 22,2% (p < 0,001) na primeira semana e do score ABC-V de 37,8% (p = 0,003) no primeiro trimestre

Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) is not only detrimental to patients' Quality of Life (QoL) but also places a considerable burden on public health resources. Ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy (USFS) is a good treatment option, but its effect on patients' QOL is still unclear. This article presents the results from the first 27 patients in a prospective, longitudinal, non-controlled study for evaluation of the clinical and QOL impact of USFS treatment for CEAP C4 to C6 grade CVI with contraindications for open surgery. Clinical symptoms were measured with the Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) and QOL by the Assessment of Burden Chronic Disease - Venous questionnaire (ABC-V). We observed 22.2% reductions in VCSS (p<0.001) in the first week after the procedure, and a 37.8% reduction in ABC-V scores (p=0.03) over the first 3 months

Lesões vasculares orais: avaliações clínicas, diagnósticas e terapêuticas / Lesiones vasculares bucales: evaluaciones clínicas, diagnósticas y terapéuticas / Oral vascular lesions: clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic evaluations

Introdução: As patologias vasculares acometem com alta incidência as regiões de cabeça e pescoço. Quando essas acometem a região oral, nota-se predileção por lábios, língua e comissura bucal, com predominância no sexo feminino. Objetivo: Analisar sobre as lesões vasculares orais, enfatizando as características clínicas, métodos de diagnósticos e abordagem terapêutica. Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão literária, com busca bibliográfica, realizada nas bases de dados eletrônicos PubMED/Medline, Lilacs, Science Direct e SciELO (Scientific Eletronic Library), utilizando os descritores: Hemangioma, Malformações vasculares, escleroterapia e fotocoagulação, em português, inglês e espanhol, obtendo 262 artigos completos, dos quais 18 foram utilizados como base científica apropriada para tal tema, obedecendo aos critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Resultados: As lesões vasculares orais caracterizam-se clinicamente como lesões únicas do tipo nódular ou mancha, cuja coloração varia do vermelho intenso ao roxo e de tamanho variável. Para diagnosticar essas lesões, utilizam-se comumente exames clínicos associados à diascopia, sem na maioria dos casos necessitarem de exames complementares. A intervenção terapêutica justifica-se devido às deformidades estéticas, possíveis sangramentos, ulcerações e infecções. Para tais alterações, existem diversas modalidades terapêuticas, incluindo escleroterapia, crioterapia, remoção cirúrgica e terapia de fotocoagulação a laser. Conclusão: As lesões vasculares orais exibem caracteristicas clinicas peculiares, apresentando-se como nódulos ou manchas, cuja coloração varia do vermelho intenso ao roxo. A diascopia é a manobra semiotécnica mais utilizada e confiável para o estabelecimento do diagnóstico clínico dessas lesões. A utilização de soluções esclerosantes apresenta-se como o tratamento mais descrito na literatura, seguido da fotocoagulação a laser(AU)

Introducción: Las enfermedades vasculares afectan con alta incidencia las regiones de cabeza y cuello. Cuando estas afectan la región bucal, se nota predilección por labios, lengua y comisura bucal, con predominio en el sexo femenino. Objetivo: Analizar sobre las lesiones vasculares bucales, enfatizando en las características clínicas, los métodos de diagnóstico y el enfoque terapéutico. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica en las bases de datos PubMED/Medline, Lilacs, Science Direct e SciELO. Se utilizaron los descriptores hemangioma, malformaciones vasculares, escleroterapia y fotocoagulación, en portugués, inglés y español. Se obtuvieron 262 artículos completos, de los cuales 18 fueron utilizados como base científica apropiada para tal tema, según los criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Resultados: Las lesiones vasculares bucales se caracterizan clínicamente como lesiones únicas del tipo nódular o mancha, cuya coloración varía del rojo intenso al púrpura y de tamaño variable. Para diagnosticar estas lesiones, se utilizan comúnmente exámenes clínicos asociados a la diascopia, sin que en la mayoría de los casos necesiten exámenes complementarios. La intervención terapéutica se justifica debido a las deformidades estéticas, posibles sangrados, ulceraciones e infecciones. Para estas alteraciones existen diversas modalidades terapéuticas, incluyendo escleroterapia, crioterapia, remoción quirúrgica y terapia de fotocoagulación láser. Conclusiones: Las lesiones vasculares bucales muestran características clínicas peculiares, presentándose como nódulos o manchas, cuya coloración varía del rojo intenso al púrpura. La diacopia es la maniobra semiotécnica más utilizada y confiable para el establecimiento del diagnóstico clínico de estas lesiones. El uso de soluciones claras se presenta como el tratamiento más descrito en la literatura, seguido de la fotocoagulación láser(AU)

Introduction: Vascular disorders affect the head and neck regions with high incidence. When they affect the oral region, there is a predilection for lips, tongue and mouth commissure, predominantly in the female. Objective: To analyze oral vascular lesions, emphasizing the clinical characteristics, diagnostic methods and therapeutic approach. Methods: A bibliographic review was carried out in the databases PubMED/Medline, Lilacs, Science Direct andSciELO (Scientific Electronic Library). We used the descriptors hemangioma, vascular malformations, sclerotherapy and photocoagulation, in Portuguese, English and Spanish. We obtained 262 complete articles, of which 18 were used as appropriate scientific basis for this topic, based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: Oral vascular lesions are clinically characterized as single lesions of the nodes or blotches, whose color varies from deep red to purple and are of variable size. In order to diagnose these lesions, clinical examinations associated with the periodontal disease are commonly used, although in most cases they do not require complementary examinations. The therapeutic intervention is justified due to aesthetic deformities, possible bleeding, ulcerations and infections. For such changes, there are several therapeutic modalities, including sclerotherapy, cryotherapy, surgical removal and laser photocoagulation therapy. Conclusions: Oral vascular lesions show peculiar clinical characteristics, presenting as nodules or spots, whose coloration varies from intense red to purple. Diascopy is the most used and reliable semi-technical method for establishing the clinical diagnosis of these lesions. The use of sclerosing solutions is the most described treatment in the literature, followed by laser photocoagulation(AU)

Evaluation of liquid or foam sclerotherapy in small varicose veins (ceap c1) with venous clinical severity score

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of liquid or foam sclerotherapy of varicose veins using venous clinical severity scores and possible complications. METHODS: A total of 318 patients (268 females, 50 males) who were treated with liquid or foam sclerotherapy between January 2012 and December 2012 were included in this study. RESULTS: Skin necrosis was observed in only 6 patients (1. 8%), thrombophlebitis in 10 patients (3. 1%), and hyperpigmentation in 18 patients (5. 6%) in this study group. The mean venous clinical severity score was calculated as: pain score, 1. 23 ± 0.88; varicose vein score,1.85 ± 0. 8; edema score, 0.64 ± 0.77). Pain and edema decreased at the control examination, 1 month after completion of sclerotherapy sessions. Varicose veins completely disappeared after sclerotherapy. While the decrease in edema in the foam sclerotherapy group was significantly less (P<0.001), the decline in pain showed an increasing trend (P=0.069). While skin necrosis did not develop after foam sclerotherapy, rates of pigmentation and local thrombophlebitis were similar (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: In conclusion, we observed that both sclerotherapy methods are effective with a low rate of complications, alleviating the complaints of patients with small varicose veins, and providing considerable improvement in venous clinical severity scores.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Nosso objetivo foi avaliar a eficácia de líquido ou espuma na escleroterapia de varizes por meio de escores de gravidade clínica venosa e possíveis complicações. MÉTODOS: Um total de 318 pacientes (268 do sexo feminino, 50 do sexo masculino) tratados com escleroterapia com espuma ou líquido entre janeiro de 2012 e dezembro de 2012 foi incluído neste estudo. RESULTADOS: Necrose da pele foi observada em apenas seis pacientes (1,8%), tromboflebite em dez pacientes (3,1%) e hiperpigmentação em 18 pacientes (5,6%) neste grupo de estudo. A média do escore de gravidade clínica venosa foi calculado como: dor pontuação 1,23±0,88, veia varicosa pontuação 1,85±0,8, edema pontuação 0,64±0,77. Dor e edema reduzido no exame de controle um mês após a conclusão das sessões de escleroterapia. Varizes desapareceram completamente após a escleroterapia. Enquanto a diminuição do edema no grupo de escleroterapia com espuma foi significativamente menor (P<0,001), o decréscimo do nível de dor mostrou uma tendência a ser maior (P=0,069). Ainda que necrose da pele não tenha se desenvolvido após escleroterapia com espuma, as taxas de pigmentação e tromboflebite local foram semelhantes (P>0,05). CONCLUSÃO: Observou-se que ambos os métodos de escleroterapia são eficazes, com baixa taxa de complicações, aliviando as queixas de pacientes com varizes pequenas, e proporcionando uma melhora considerável nos escores de gravidade clínica venosa.

Embolismo pulmonar después de obturación de várices gástricas con N-butil-2-cianoacrilato / Pulmonary embolism after endoscopic injection with N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate for gastric varices

Las várices gástricas están presentes en cerca de un tercio de los pacientes con hipertensión portal y el sangrado de las mismas representa una causa significativa de mortalidad. El tratamiento de primera línea es la obturación con N-butil-2-cianoacrilato, que si bien es seguro no está libre de complicaciones. Presentamos el caso de un paciente de 61 años de edad con antecedente de cirrosis criptogénica que se presentó a la consulta febril, taquicárdico e hipoxémico después de la obturación endoscópica con N-butil-2-cianoacrilato. Las imágenes mostraron embolia pulmonar bilateral del material obturante. El objetivo de este trabajo es destacar las manifestaciones clínicas y las imágenes de esta situación para ayudar a su diagnóstico precoz y diferenciarla de otras entidades que requieren un tratamiento específico.

Gastric varices occur in one-third of patients with portal hypertension. Bleeding from gastric varices remains a significant cause of death. Currently the first-line of treatment for gastric varices is endoscopic obliteration with N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate. Though relatively safe, this option has several well-known complications. We report the case of a 61-year-old male patient with cryptogenic cirrhosis, who presented with fever, tachycardia and hypoxemia after endoscopic obliteration with N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate. Radiographic findings were consistent with pulmonary embolism of the sclerosing substance. The aim of this case report is to emphasize the clinical and radiological findings of this complication in order to distinguish it from other similar medical conditions and prevent a delay in diagnosis.

Tratamento intralesional de malformações linfáticas com ênfase na escleroterapia com picibanil (OK-432): revisão sistemática / Intralesional treatment of lymphatic malformations with emphasis on Picibanil (OK-432) sclerotherapy: a systematic review

INTRODUÇÃO: Conduziu-se revisão sistemática retrospectiva da literatura incluindo estudos relatando o uso de picibanil para tratar malformações linfáticas (ML). MÉTODOS: A pesquisa foi realizada com estudos publicados no PubMed de janeiro de 1990 a 14 de abril de 2013. Na estratégia de busca, usou-se os descritores "OK-432" ou "Picibanil" e "lymphatic malformation". Os seguintes elementos foram comparados aos de outras modalidades relatadas e, então, compilados: mecanismo de ação, indicações, contraindicações, eficácia, administração, efeitos colaterais, complicações, vantagens e desvantagens. RESULTADOS: Foram encontrados 44 estudos, 27 dos quais atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. O picibanil é uma preparação liofilizada de uma cepa de baixa virulência de Streptococcus pyogenes inativada pela penicilina G. Seu mecanismo de ação ainda não definido claramente, mas especula-se que provoque uma resposta inflamatória controlada com adesão das paredes dos cistos. O picibanil é indicado quase que unanimemente para o tratamento da ML macrocística, cuja resposta é mais efetiva do que em lesões microcísticas ou mistas. Em geral, o picibanil é administrado por meio de punção com visualização direta ou guiada por ultrassonografia, com o paciente sob anestesia geral. A preparação comumente utilizada consiste em 0,1 mg de picibanil em 10 ml de soro fisiológico. Os efeitos colaterais são, em geral, leves; sendo dor, inchaço e febre os mais frequentemente relatados. CONCLUSÃO: Os estudos apresentam pouca evidência científica. A revisão sistemática identificou que o picibanil é útil no tratamento da ML de qualquer tipo, mas tem resultados melhores em lesões macrocísticas. A eficácia foi comparável à de outras terapias. Não foi apresentada nenhuma contraindicação específica. Embora o mecanismo de ação ainda não tenha sido determinado, o picibanil trata-se de opção de tratamento.

INTRODUCTION: We performed a retrospective systematic review of studies reporting the use of Picibanil for treatment of lymphatic malformations (LMs). METHODS: We searched the PubMed database for available studies, including those published between January 1990 and April 14, 2013. The search strategy involved the use of the keywords "OK-432" or "Picibanil" and "lymphatic malformation." Information was compiled regarding the reported mechanism of action, indications, contraindications, efficacy, administration, side effects, complications, and advantages and disadvantages compared to those of other modalities. RESULTS: Forty-four studies were found, of which 27 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Picibanil is a lyophilized preparation of a low-virulence strain of Streptococcus pyogenes inactivated with penicillin G. Its mechanism of action is unclear, but it has been speculated that it causes a controlled inflammatory response with adhesion of cyst walls. Picibanil is almost unanimously indicated for the treatment of macrocystic LMs, which show a greater effectiveness response compared to that shown by microcystic or mixed LMs. Picibanil is usually administered by puncturing, either with direct visualization or guided by ultrasound, with the patient under general anesthesia. The most widely used preparation comprises 0.1 mg of Picibanil in 10 mL of saline. Side effects are mostly mild, with pain, swelling, and fever being the most frequently reported. CONCLUSION: The studies had low scientific evidence. A systematic review found that Picibanil is useful against any LM, with better results in macrocystic lesions. Efficacy was comparable to that of other therapies. No specific contraindication was presented. Although the mechanism of action has not been established, the inclusion of Picibanil as a treatment option is warranted.

Disseminated cutaneous atypical mycobacteriosis by M. chelonae after sclerotherapy of varicose veins in a immunocompetent patient: a case report

Atypical mycobacteria are saprophytic organisms not transmitted from person to person, which affect mainly immunosuppressed but also immunocompetent individuals. We present a case of atypical mycobacteriosis after a vascular procedure, with widespread cutaneous lesions associated with polyarthralgia. Mycobacterium chelonae was identified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. The patient showed improvement after treatment with three antibiotics. Mycobacterium chelonae causes skin lesions after invasive procedures. The clinical form depends on the immune state of the host and on the entry points. The diagnosis is based essentially on culture and the mycobacteria is identified by PCR. We highlight the importance of investigating atypical mycobacteriosis when faced with granulomatous lesions associated with a history of invasive procedures.

Can proton pump inhibitors reduce rebleeding following Histoacryl sclerotherapy for gastric variceal hemorrhage?

BACKGROUND/AIMS: To evaluate the efficacy of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in reducing rebleeding and bleeding-related death rates after endoscopic gastric variceal obliteration (GVO) using N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBC). METHODS: This study enrolled 341 patients who were consecutively diagnosed with and treated for bleeding gastric varices. The patients were divided into PPI and non-PPI groups, and their endoscopic findings, initial hemostasis outcomes, rebleeding and bleeding-related death rates, and treatment-related complications were analyzed. RESULTS: The rate of initial hemostasis was 97.1%. rebleeding occurred in 2.2% of patients within 2 weeks, 3.9% of patients within 4 weeks, 18.9% of patients within 6 months, and 27.6% of patients within 12 months of the GVO procedure. A previous history of variceal bleeding (relative risk [RR], 1.955; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.263 to 3.028; p = 0.003) and use of PPIs (RR, 0.554; 95% CI, 0.352 to 0.873; p = 0.011) were associated with rebleeding. Child-Pugh class C (RR, 10.914; 95% CI, 4.032 to 29.541; p < 0.001), failure of initial hemostasis (RR, 13.329; 95% CI, 2.795 to 63.556; p = 0.001), and the presence of red-colored concomitant esophageal varices (RR, 4.096; 95% CI, 1.320 to 12.713; p = 0.015) were associated with bleeding-related death. CONCLUSIONS: The prophylactic use of PPIs reduces rebleeding after GVO using NBC in patients with gastric variceal hemorrhage. However, prophylactic use of PPIs does not reduce bleeding-related death.

Fluoroscopy-Guided Endovenous Sclerotherapy Using a Microcatheter Prior to Endovenous Laser Ablation: Comparison between Liquid and Foam Sclerotherapy for Varicose Tributaries

OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy and adverse effects of endovenous foam sclerotherapy (EFS) and liquid sclerotherapy (ELS) using a microcatheter for the treatment of varicose tributaries. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From December 2007 to January 2009, patients with venous reflux in the saphenous vein were enrolled. The foam or liquid sclerosant was injected through a microcatheter just before endovenous laser ablation (EVLA). Patients were evaluated for the technical success, clinical success, and procedure-related complications during the procedure and follow-up visits. RESULTS: A total of 94 limbs were included: 48 limbs (great saphenous vein [GSV], 35; small saphenous vein [SSV], 13) were managed using EFS and EVLA (foam group; FG), and 46 limbs (GSV, 37; SSV, 9) were treated by ELS and EVLA (liquid group; LG). Varicose tributaries demonstrated complete sclerosis in 92.7% with FG and in 71.8% with LG (p = 0.014). Bruising (78.7% in FG vs. 73.2% in LG, p > 0.05), pain or tenderness (75.6% in FG vs. 51.2% in LG, p = 0.0237) were noted. Hyperpigmentation (51.2% in FG vs. 46.2% in LG, p > 0.05) was found. CONCLUSION: Endovenous foam sclerotherapy using a microcatheter is more effective than ELS for eliminating remnant varicose tributaries prior to EVLA. However, EFS is more commonly associated with local complications such as pain or tenderness than ELS. Furthermore, both techniques seem to prolong the duration of hyperpigmentation along with higher costs.

Sclerotherapy in the management of varicose veins and its dermatological complications.

Background: Varicose veins and its dermatological complications like stasis dermatitis, ulcers, spontaneous bleeding are commonly seen in the dermatology clinics. Surgery has been the most often used treatment for varicose veins. Sclerotherapy refers to introduction of sclerosing solution into the varicose veins, which causes endothelial damage and subsequent fibrosis. Sclerotherapy is being practised extensively by dermatosurgeons in the west. However, there are no Indian studies which specifically evaluate the role of sclerotherapy in the management of varicose veins and its skin complications. Hence, this study aims to evaluate the efficacy of sclerotherapy in managing varicose veins and its complications. Aims: To study the safety and efficacy of sclerotherapy in the treatment of varicose veins and its dermatological complications. Methods: This is a prospective study involving 50 patients with varicose veins and its dermatological complications attending the dermatology out-patient department. The study was conducted over a period of 18 months. After thorough clinical, laboratory, and radiological evaluation, the patients were treated with sclerotherapy using Sodium Tetradecyl Sulphate of various concentrations depending on the vessel size. The patients were then followed up to look for disappearance of veins, healing of ulcers and eczema, and any complications.Results: Patients showed a good response to treatment with sclerotherapy. 70-80% of patients showed symptomatic improvement along with disappearance of veins and healing of eczema and ulcers. Most of the complications were minor, which resolved over a period of few weeks. Conclusion : Sclerotherapy is a simple, safe and effective procedure for the treatment of varicose veins and its dermatological complications. The procedure is particularly effective for smaller, early varicosities and also for residual veins after surgery. Hence we recommend more and more of our fellow dermatologists to take up this procedure, which can be an efficient tool to manage patients with varicose veins and its related complications.

Prospective study of bacteremia rate after elective band ligation and sclerotherapy with cyanoacrylate for esophageal varices in patients with advanced liver disease / Estudo de bacteriemia relacionada à ligadura elástica versus injeção de cianocrilato para varizes esofágicas em pacientes com doença hepática avançada

CONTEXT: Band ligation (BL) is the most appropriate endoscopic treatment for acute bleeding or prophylaxis of esophageal variceal bleeding. Sclerotherapy with N-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (CY) can be an alternative for patients with advanced liver disease. Bacteremia is an infrequent complication after BL while the bacteremia rate following treatment with CY for esophageal varices remains unknown. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate and compare the incidence of transient bacteremia between cirrhotic patients submitted to diagnostic endoscopy, CY and BL for treatment of esophageal varices. METHODS: A prospective study comprising the period from 2004 to 2007 was conducted at Hospital of Universidade Federal de São Paulo, UNIFESP, SP, Brazil. Cirrhotic patients with advanced liver disease (Child-Pugh B or C) were enrolled. The patients were divided into two groups according treatment: BL Group (patients undergoing band ligation, n = 20) and CY Group (patients receiving cyanoacrylate injection for esophageal variceal, n = 18). Cirrhotic patients with no esophageal varices or without indication for endoscopic treatment were recruited as control (diagnostic group n = 20). Bacteremia was evaluated by blood culture at baseline and 30 minutes after the procedure. RESULTS: After 137 scheduled endoscopic procedures, none of the 58 patients had fever or any sign suggestive of infection. All baseline cultures were negative. No positive cultures were observed after CY or in the control group - diagnostic endoscopy. Three (4.6 percent) positive cultures were found out of the 65 sessions of band ligation (P = 0.187). Two of these samples were positive for coagulase-negative staphylococcus, which could be regarded as a contaminant. The isolated microorganism in the other case was Klebsiella oxytoca. The patient in this case presented no evidence of immunodeficiency except liver disease. CONCLUSIONS: There was no significant difference in bacteremia rate between these three groups. BL or CY injection for non-bleeding esophageal varices may be considered as low-risk procedures regarding bacteremia even when performed on patients with advanced liver disease.

CONTEXTO: A ligadura elástica é considerada o melhor tratamento endoscópico para o sangramento agudo por varizes esofágicas ou para profilaxia do sangramento varicoso, sendo a escleroterapia com N-2-butil-cianoacrilato uma alternativa para os pacientes com doença hepática avançada e distúrbio de coagulação. Bacteriemia é uma complicação rara associada à ligadura elástica, por outro lado, a incidência de bacteriemia relacionada com o uso de N-2-butil-cianoacrilato permanece desconhecida. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar e comparar a incidência de bacteriemia transitória entre os pacientes cirróticos submetidos a endoscopia digestiva alta diagnóstica, escleroterapia com N-2-butil-cianoacrilato ou ligadura elástica para tratamento das varizes esofágicas. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo realizado entre 2004 e 2007 foi conduzido no Hospital da Universidade Federal de São Paulo, UNIFESP, Brasil. Cirróticos com doença hepática avançada (Child B ou C) foram incluídos. Os pacientes foram divididos em dois grupos de acordo com o tratamento: grupo ligadura elástica (pacientes submetidos a ligadura elástica, n = 20) e grupo N-2-butil-cianoacrilato (pacientes submetidos a injeção de N-2-butil-cianoacrilato, n = 18). Cirróticos sem varizes esofágicas ou com varizes esofágicas sem indicação de tratamento endoscópico foram recrutados como controles (grupo endoscopia diagnóstica, n = 20). Bacteriemia foi avaliada por hemocultura basal e 30 minutos após o procedimento. RESULTADOS: Dos 137 procedimentos endoscópicos realizados, nenhum dos 58 pacientes apresentou febre ou qualquer sinal sugestivo de infecção. Todas as hemoculturas de base foram negativas. Nenhuma cultura positiva foi observada após o uso de N-2-butil-cianoacrilato ou no grupo controle. Três (4,6 por cento) culturas positivas foram encontradas após as 65 sessões de ligadura elástica (P = 0,187). Duas dessas foram positivas para Staphylococcus coagulase-negativo, provavelmente relacionadas à contaminação. O microorganismo isolado no terceiro caso foi Klebsiella oxytoca. Nesse caso, o paciente apresentava a própria doença hepática como única situação relacionada à imunodeficiência. CONCLUSÕES: Não houve diferença significante na incidência de bacteriemia entre os três grupos de pacientes. Ligadura elástica ou injeção de N-2-butil-cianoacrilato para profilaxia do sangramento varicoso podem ser considerados procedimentos de baixo risco quanto ao surgimento de bacteriemia, mesmo em pacientes com doença hepática avançada.

Dor torácica e disfagia decorrentes de escleroterapia de varizes esofágicas: estudo de 14 casos / Chest pain and dysphagia due to sclerotherapy of esophageal varices: study of 14 cases

Introdução - A esclerose endoscópica (EE) de varizes esofágicas é largamente utilizada para prevenção do ressangramento varicoso, mas há relatos inconsistentes sobre dor torácica e disfagia relacionadas ao procedimento. Materiais e metodologia - Foram estudados prospectivamente 14 portadores de cirrose hepática,hipertensão portal e varizes do esôfago, que já haviam apresentado episódio(s) de sangramento. Todos foram submetidos a exame endoscópico, antes da EE, para aferir as varizes, e cerca de três meses depois da EE, para listar complicações do procedimento. Em cada cordão varicoso eram realizadas injeções intravasais de 2 a 5ml de oleato de etanolamina a 2,5%, a intervalos de 2cm, até a eliminação das varizes, respeitando olimite de 20 a 30ml/sessão e cerca de 15 dias de intervalo entre as sessões. A cada sessão de EE e depois do final do tratamento, questionava-se sobre presença de disfagia e dor retrosternal. Resultados - Foram necessárias de duas a quatro sessões de escleroterapia para a eliminação das varizes, no tempo médio de 1,6± 0,71 meses. Ao exame endoscópico efetuado 3,07 ± 0,17 meses depois do final da EE, as varizes estavam erradicadas em todos os pacientes e não foram constatadas complicações em oito casos. Quatro pacientes apresentavam úlceras esofágicas superficiais, de aspecto isquêmico, em fase final de cicatrização, enquanto outros dois também mostravam sinéquias, de fácil desfazimento. Durante o período de EE, foram freqüentes as queixas de disfagia e dor retrosternal de moderada intensidade, mas, depois de cerca de três meses do finalda EE, dez pacientes estavam assintomáticos, os outros mantendo sintomas leves e fugazes. Conclusões –Dor torácica e disfagia são queixas atribuíveis à escleroterapia de varizes esofágicas, manifestando-se principalmente entre as sessões do procedimento; aos três meses de seguimento, não são mais queixas relevantes.

Introduction - The endoscopic sclerosis (ES) of the esophageal varices is broadly employed to prevent new variceal bleedings, but there are inconsistent reports about chest pain and dysphagia related to the procedure. Materials and methodology – Fourteen cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension and at least one bleeding occurrence were prospectively studied. They were submitted to an endoscopic exam previous to ES to evaluate the varices and around three months after the procedure to list its complications. 2-5 mL intravasal injections of 2.5% ethanolamine sulfate were applied at each 2 cm cranially in each varix reaching 20-30 mL persession at about 15-day intervals. In each ES session and after the end of the treatment, all the patients were inquired focusing the presence or not of chest pain and dysphagia. Results – After 2-4 sessions, in anaverage time of 1.6± 0.71 months, the varices was eliminated. The endoscopic exam realized 3.07 ± 0.17months from the end of the program showed that the varices remained eradicated and no complications were observed in eight cases. Superficial ischemic ulcers were seen in six patients, accompanied of some thin fibrous adherences in two of them, easily ruptured with the endoscope. Moderate chest pain and dysphagia were frequently reported during the ES sessions, but ten patients were asymptomatic around three months from the end of the treatment, the others presenting only inconstant and slight symptoms. Conclusions –Chest pain and dysphagia can be reported mainly among the sessions of the programmed variceal sclerotherapy,but often are abolished three months later.

Causes and outcome of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in emergency endoscopy unit of Ain Shams University Hospital

This prospective follow-up study was designed to analyze the causes and outcome of upper gastrointestinal bleeding among patients presenting by hematemesis and/or melena to Emergency Endoscopy Unit, Ain Shams University Hospitals. One thousand patients presented by upper GIT bleeding were subjected to complete clinical evaluation, emergency upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and therapeutic interventions as indicated. Follow up was done for occurrence of re-bleeding or mortality. Variceal causes of bleeding were the most common, representing 70.1% followed by non-variceal causes [26.1%] and obscure causes [3.8%]. Esophageal varices [EV] alone represented 17.8% of causes of variceal bleeding, while combined esophageal and gastric varices represented 39.5% and isolated gastric varices 12.8%. Gastric lesions were the most common causes of non variceal bleeding. Recurrence of bleeding occurred in 19.4% of variceal group in comparison to 6.1% of non variceal group, while mortality was found in 4.3% of variceal group in comparison to 1.5% of non variceal group with very highly significant difference [P <0.001]. Hypertension, ascites, EV columns, EV grade IV, presence of gastric varices and associated respiratory disorder were independent factors as-sociated with recurrence of bleeding in variceai group. In non variceal group, recurrence of bleeding was significantly related only to the presence of gastric ulcers [P=0.035]. Independent factors associated with mortality in studied patients were age, associated diabetes, presence of esophageal varices and associated duodenal ulcer

Pattern of bacteraemia following endoscopic elective oesophageal injection sclerotherapy and band ligation in cirrhotic patients

Gastrointestinal endoscopy is an invasive technique and it may be associated with a risk of bacteraemia, especially if endoscopy is associated with an intervention such as injection sclerotherapy or band ligation. The aim of the work is to investigate the incidence of bacteraemia following elective elastic band ligation and elective injection sclerotherapy in cirrhotic patients. Our study included 80 cirrhotic patients with grade III-IV oesophageal varices divided into three groups: 30 patients treated with elective injection sclerotherapy, 30 patients treated with elective band ligation and 20 patients underwent diagnostic upper endoscopy and served as control. All patients were subjected to full clinical evaluation, abdominal ultrasonography and lab investigations, including blood culture before and after the endoscopic procedure. No positive blood cultures were detected before the technique. Seven patients [8.75%] had positive blood culture after endoscopy; six of them [20%] were in the injection sclerotherapy group, one patient [3.33%] in the band ligation group and none in the upper endoscopy group. Positive blood culture was more frequent in child C patients [four patients] compared to child B [two patients] and child A patients [one patient] with statistically significant difference. Three types of micro-organisms were isolated: Acinetobacter, alpha haemolytic streptococci and coagulase negative staphylococci. The rate of bacteraemia is higher in the injection sclerotherapy group compared with the band ligation group, especially in child C patients

Intramural esophageal hematoma after elective injection sclerotherapy / Hematoma intramural esofágico após escleroterapia eletiva de varizes

Context: Although endoscopic esophageal variceal sclerotherapy has been largely supplanted by variceal band ligation, it is still performed routinely in many institutions, especially in developing countries. Intramural esophageal hematoma has been described as a rare complication of sclerotherapy. Risk factors have not been completely established. Objective: To demonstrate the incidence of post-sclerotherapy intramural esophageal hematoma in our hospital and discuss the possible factors involved. Methods - This is a retrospective observational study made at the "Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho", Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil, reviewing the medical records of all esophageal variceal sclerotherapy procedures performed from April 2000 to November 2005. The evaluation of the clinical, laboratorial and endoscopic features in our patients and those reported in the literature was also done. Review of literature was performed through MEDLINE search. Results: A total of 1,433 esophageal variceal sclerotherapy procedures were performed in 397 patients, with an intramural esophageal hematoma incidence of 4 cases (0.28 percent). Three of our patients developed additional complications, and one death was a direct consequence of a rupture of the hematoma. Nineteen well described cases were reported in the literature. Intramural esophageal hematoma occurred mostly after the forth esophageal variceal sclerotherapy session. Coagulation disturbances were present in the majority of cases. Conclusion: Intramural esophageal hematoma is a rare complication of esophageal variceal sclerotherapy and its incidence in our institution was similar to those observed in the literature. Our study suggests that this complication occurs as a result of a fragile esophageal mucosa after previous esophageal variceal sclerotherapy sessions. Impaired coagulation, although not essential, could contribute to hematoma formation and extension through esophageal submucosa.

Contexto: Apesar do fato de que a escleroterapia endoscópica de varizes esofágicas vem sendo largamente substituída pela técnica de ligadura elástica, a escleroterapia é ainda rotineiramente utilizada em muitas instituições, especialmente em países em desenvolvimento. O hematoma intramural esofágico é uma complicação rara da escleroterapia e os fatores de risco para seu desenvolvimento ainda não estão completamente estabelecidos. Objetivo - Demonstrar a incidência do hematoma intramural esofágico pós-escleroterapia no Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, e discutir os possíveis fatores envolvidos. Métodos: Este é um estudo retrospectivo observacional realizado no Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, através da revisão dos prontuários médicos de todos os pacientes submetidos a escleroterapia endoscópica de varizes esofágicas entre abril de 2000 e novembro de 2005. Uma avaliação das características clínicas, laboratoriais e endoscópicas desses pacientes e dos descritos na literatura foi realizada. A revisão da literatura foi feita através de pesquisa no MEDLINE. Resultados: Foram realizados 1.433 procedimentos de escleroterapia endoscópica de varizes esofágicas em 397 pacientes, com incidência de hematoma intramural esofágico de 4 casos (0,28 por cento). Três dos quatro pacientes desenvolveram complicações adicionais e um falecimento foi consequência direta do hematoma intramural esofágico. Dezenove casos bem documentados de hematoma intramural esofágico foram descritos na literatura. Na maioria dos casos o hematoma intramural esofágico ocorreu a partir da quarta sessão de escleroterapia endoscópica de varizes esofágicas e distúrbios de coagulação estavam presentes. Conclusão: O hematoma intramural esofágico é complicação rara da escleroterapia e a incidência no hospital onde foi realizada esta pesquisa foi similar à observada na literatura. Este estudo sugere que essa complicação resulta de mucosa...