Compression sclerotherapy for primary valvular insufficiency -from liquid to foam-

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Phlebology
• Minimally Invasive Procedures

Background:

• Sclerotherapy for lower extremity varicose veins has a long history, with periods of decreased use due to complications from stronger sclerosants.
• Resurgence in popularity due to safer sclerosants and compression techniques.
• Introduction of sclerosing foam in the mid-1990s has led to increased favor among phlebologists.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and compare the efficacy of sclerosing foam versus liquid sclerosants in treating venous insufficiency.
• To discuss the safety aspects of foam sclerotherapy, including both resolved and unresolved questions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing studies on sclerotherapy for varicose veins.
• Discussion of findings from European Consensus Meetings on Foam Sclerotherapy (ECMFS).

Main Results:

• Sclerosing foam has become a preferred method for many phlebologists over liquid sclerosants.
• Limited studies specifically compare the efficacy of foam versus liquid forms in venous insufficiency treatment.
• Safety of foam sclerotherapy remains an area with ongoing discussion and research.

Conclusions:

• Sclerosing foam represents a significant advancement in varicose vein treatment.
• Further research is needed to definitively establish the comparative efficacy and long-term safety of foam versus liquid sclerotherapy.
• Addressing safety concerns is crucial for the continued adoption and optimization of foam sclerotherapy.