Results of Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy of the Great Saphenous Vein With New Parameters of the Technique

Abstract

To report the outcome of a series of patients with chronic venous disease due to incompetence of the great saphenous vein (GSV) managed by ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy (USGFS). Controlled clinical trial with maximum 5-year follow-up of results of USGFS of the GSV with new parameters of the procedure. This research analyzes the results of USGFS of the GSV (395 GSV) and its tributaries in 326 patients with varicose veins of the lower extremities over the period from January 2009 to January 2014 with the following parameters of the procedure: 60° limb elevation, calf bandage, and cooled foam injection. Ultrasound control of 395 GSV after the first injection of sclerosant from the sixth to the eighth day revealed GSV occlusion in the femoral segment with the absence of reflux in 94.9% of cases (375 GSV). After 5-year follow-up, GSV occlusion was diagnosed in 91.9% of cases. Our improved technique of foam sclerotherapy allows improving immediate and long-term results. This technique is characterized by the low incidence of side effects and complications.