T-L-103 RESTLESS LEGS SYNDROME: THE RESPONSE OF RLS TO COMPREHENSIVE VARICOSE VEIN CARE

Abstract

Introduction and Objectives: Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a progressive disorder of uncomfortable sensations in the legs that leads to unwanted motor restlessness. Recent research has suggested a correlation between RLS and chronic venous disorders (CVD). The purpose of this study is to determine the effect that comprehensive vein treatment has in relieving RLS symptoms in those patients who have both RLS and CVD. Materials and Methods: This study is a case series report of a physician’s detailed account of 54 consecutive patients (mean age: 46±13 years) who presented to a specialty phlebology practice with CVD (CEAP C1 to C5) and who also had RLS conforming to the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group (IRLSSG) diagnostic criteria. The IRLSSG Rating Scale (RLSRS) ten question survey instrument (score: 0-40) was administered to each patient prior to treatment. Each patient was treated with sclerotherapy, with or without endovenous laser treatment, according to the presentation of their CVD. Each patient’s RLS symptoms were subsequently re-evaluated at predetermined intervals within their treatment course, using the RLSRS survey instrument. The study end points were defined as complete RLS symptom relief (score = 0) or completion of vein treatment protocol, whichever came first. No patients were prescribed any other pharmacologic intervention for their RLS. Results: Fifty patients completed the study. Four patients did not complete the study and/or their treatment and were lost to follow-up. The mean RLSRS baseline score was 22±6 (range: 9–36). Forty-eight of the 50 patients (96%) experienced complete relief of their restless legs symptoms (RLSRS = 0, p<0.001). The mean RLSRS score at the end of the study was 0.5±1 (p<0.01). Two patients (4%) experienced significant but incomplete relief. Conclusion: While the pathology of RLS is unclear, treating a patient’s concomitant chronic venous insufficiency provided them with complete or significant relief of their RLS symptoms. Patients having RLS should be evaluated for concomitant CVD and appropriately treated. Acknowledgements: JS Gibson, JT King, RC Guptan, Vein Clinics of America and Venous Research Foundation, IL, USA