Foam treatment for varicose veins; efficacy and safety

ABSTRACT

To demonstrate the efficacy and safety of foam sclerotherapy in the treatment of varicose veins measured against patient satisfaction, symptom relief, clinical examination and duptex scanning. From October 2004 to October 2005, 100 legs with varicose veins treated with ultrasound guided sclerosing foam prepared according to Tessari method by mixing Ethanolamine Oleate [E.O] with air using 2 disposable syrings and a three way tap producing a high-quality micro foam.Every patient was studied with clinical examination and duplex scanning before and after the treatment with a mean follow up of 12 months. An average of 8 ml of E.O. 5% foam were required to close incompetent varicose veins. Thirty percent of legs required a second treatment at the 3rd month of follow up. All patients felt that their legs had treated successfully with resolution of all symptoms in 85% and resolution of all varicosities in 92%. Foam sclerotherapy is safe and effective therapy in treating varicose veins with high patient satisfaction and improvement in quality of life