Compression Sclerotherapy for Varicose Veins / 대한흉부외과학회지

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Although sclerotherapy is an established procedure in treating varicose veins, a wide disparity remains in the rates of success. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and complications of sclerotherapy in combination with compression. MATERIAL AND METHOD: From December 2000 to September 2001, a combined total of 50 legs in 39 patients with primary varicose veins were treated with sodium tetradecyl sulfate as sclerosant with the empty vein technique. Immediately after the injection, local compression was increased by a cotton wool roll, and additional compression was obtained with class II medical compression hosiery. Patients were evaluated at 5 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, and 6 weeks for degree of improvement and complications. RESULT: There were 36 women and 3 men ranging in age from 26 to 66 years, with a mean age of 45.3 years. Good sclerosing results were obtained in all patients. Of fifty legs, five had minor complications, two small intravascular clots, two pigmentations, and one compression-related bulla, which needed no treatment. CONCLUSION: The use of a cotton wool roll for local compression is highly effective, and sclerotherapy in combination with compression is safe and effective in the treatment of varicose veins.