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Compression regimes after endovenous ablation for superficial venous insufficiency – A survey of members of the Vascular Society of Great Britain and Ireland

El-Sheikha, J; Nandhra, S; Carradice, D; Acey, C; Smith, GE; Campbell, B; Chetter, IC

Authors

J El-Sheikha

S Nandhra

C Acey

B Campbell



Abstract

Introduction: The optimal compression regime following ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy (UGFS), radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) for varicose veins is not known. The aim of this study was to document current practice. Methods: Postal questionnaire sent to 348 consultant members of the Vascular Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Results: Valid replies were received from 41% (n = 141) surgeons representing at least 68 (61%) vascular units. UGFS was used by 74% surgeons, RFA by 70% and EVLA by 32%, but fewer patients received UGFS (median 30) annually, than endothermal treatment (median 50) – P = 0.019. All surgeons prescribed compression: following UGFS for median seven days (range two days to three months) and after endothermal ablation for 10 days (range two days to six weeks) – P = 0.298. Seven different combinations of bandages, pads and compression stockings were reported following UGFS and four after endothermal ablation. Some surgeons advised changing from bandages to stockings from five days (range 1–14) after UGFS. Following endothermal ablation, 71% used bandages only, followed by compression stockings after two days (range 1–14). The majority of surgeons (87%) also treated varicose tributaries: 65% used phlebectomy, the majority (65%) synchronously with endothermal ablation. Concordance of compression regimes between surgeons within vascular units was uncommon. Only seven units using UGFS and six units using endothermal ablation had consistent compression regimes. Conclusion: Compression regimes after treatments for varicose veins vary significantly: more evidence is needed to guide practice.

Citation

El-Sheikha, J., Nandhra, S., Carradice, D., Acey, C., Smith, G., Campbell, B., & Chetter, I. (2016). Compression regimes after endovenous ablation for superficial venous insufficiency – A survey of members of the Vascular Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Phlebology, 31(1), 16-22. https://doi.org/10.1177/0268355514567732

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Jan 13, 2015
Online Publication Date Jan 13, 2015
Publication Date 2016-02
Print ISSN 0268-3555
Publisher SAGE Publications
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 31
Issue 1
Pages 16-22
DOI https://doi.org/10.1177/0268355514567732
Keywords Superficial venous insufficiency; Compression; Endovenous; Varicose veins; Bandages
Public URL https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/432708
Publisher URL http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0268355514567732