[Beta-aescin in the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency]

In 15 patients with primary or secondary chronic venous insufficiency (CHVI) the authors evaluated the action of three weeks' treatment with beta-aescin (Yellon caps). The regression of clinical symptoms of CHVI (sensation of "heavy" and "tired" legs, swollen ankles, nocturnal cramps was complete in five patients, partial or slight in seven patients, and none in three patients (with secondary venous insufficiency associated with thrombosis of the deep venous system). Undesirable effects of the agent were not revealed by common screening tests. No change of the basic parameters of haemostasis occurred. The haemodynamic action on the venous and capillary circulation of the lower extremities was evaluated by the method of venous occlusion plethysmography. Already after the first week of treatment a significant drop of capillary filtration to 74% of the original mean value before treatment occurred (0.265 +/- 0.084 ml/100 ml tissue). After the second and third week of treatment the values of capillary filtration decreased on average to 66% of the original mean value. The venous capacity (before treatment on average 3.5 +/- 0.9 ml/100 ml tissue) and venous drainage (before treatment on average 24.5 +/- 13.5 ml min/100 ml) did not change significantly during treatment.