A systematic review of compression hosiery for uncomplicated varicose veins

Impact on healing of double-layered compression stocking in the treatment of severe venous leg ulcers: A prospective, multicenter, controlled trial

Venous leg ulcer refers to chronic wounds, generally difficult to heal and often prone to recurrence. The objective of this research was to assess a double layered compression stocking VenoTrain® ulcertec on a population with mostly severe pathologies. This prospective, multicenter, interventional type II study was conducted between September 2018 and January 2022. Out of 124 patients enrolled, 97.6% had a history of previous leg ulceration, 72.6% were already being followed for leg ulcerations, 30.9% were severely overweight and 24.2% diabetic. Overall, a majority of target ulcers were present for 6months or more, and the ulcer surface area was larger than 8cm2 in nearly one in every five cases. The primary endpoint was the rate of closed ulcer after a maximum follow-up of 20weeks. While most of the treated venous leg ulcerations may be regarded as hard-to-heal wounds, closure rate at 20weeks ranged between 50.0% (two severity criteria) and 69.0% (no severity criteria) according to baseline wound severity criteria. Besides, VenoTrain® ulcertec device was particularly well accepted and tolerated by patients. In 93.2% of visits, patients stated using it every day. When managing venous ulcerations not requiring strongly thick absorbent dressings, VenoTrain® ulcertec device represents an efficient and more suitable alternative to venous compression bandaging.

Indications, contraindications, side effects, general assessment, and outlook for the future: An International Compression Club survey

BACKGROUND

The effectiveness of compression therapy (CT) and the best compression modality choice are questioned in many clinical stages of chronic venous disease (CVD). This work aims to obtain information on indications, contraindications, and the best treatment option for CT in different clinical scenarios of CVD.

METHOD

An online survey was made among members of the International Compression Club, experts in CT.

RESULTS

The experts apply CT in all clinical stages of CVD, even when evidence is missing. Regarding compression materials, experts use inelastic materials in the advanced stages of CVD and compression stockings in the early or chronic stages of CVD.

CONCLUSION

The authors highlight the gap between experts' practical use of CT and evidence-based medicine results. They also suggested that, given the cost of randomized clinical trials aimed at specifying specific indications for different devices, artificial intelligence could be used for large-scale practice surveys in the future.

[Varicosis-Current treatment concepts]

Varicosis is a chronic progressive disease characterized by varicose veins of the lower extremities. Pain, swelling and heaviness of the legs are typical symptoms. These symptoms are caused by a pathological venous reflux, arising from a weakness of the vein wall and progressive venous insufficiency. The indications for invasive surgery are the symptomatic clinical, etiological, anatomical, pathophysiological (CEAP) stages C2s-C6. Compression therapy and venoactive drugs can be recommended for conservative therapy. When it comes to surgical treatment conventional open vein surgery is associated with the best long-term results. Endovenous thermal ablation is associated with few postoperative complications and favors earlier mobilization of the patient. Sclerotherapy has become established with good clinical results for the ablation of reticular and telangiectatic veins, for recurrences and complicated vein anatomy.

Black holes in compression therapy: A quest for data

OBJECTIVE

Although compression therapy (CT) is considered a crucial conservative treatment in chronic venous disease, strong evidence is missing for many clinical indications. This literature review aims to point out what strong evidence we have for CT and all the clinical scenarios where strong evidence still needs to be included.

METHODS

The research was conducted on MEDLINE with PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. The time range was set between January 1980 and October 2022. Only articles in English were included.

RESULTS

The main problem with CT is the low scientific quality of many studies on compression. Consequently, we have robust data on the effectiveness of CT only for advanced venous insufficiency (C3-C6), deep vein thrombosis and lymphedema. We have data on the efficacy of compression for venous symptoms control and in sports recovery, but the low quality of studies cannot result in a strong recommendation. For compression in postvenous procedures, superficial venous thrombosis, thromboprophylaxis, post-thrombotic syndrome prevention and treatment, and sports performance, we have either no data or very debated data not allowing any recommendation.

CONCLUSIONS

We need high-level scientific studies to assess if CT can be effective or definitely ineffective in the clinical indications where we still have a paucity of or contrasting data.

The 2023 Society for Vascular Surgery, American Venous Forum, and American Vein and Lymphatic Society clinical practice guidelines for the management of varicose veins of the lower extremities. Part II: Endorsed by the Society of Interventional Radiology and the Society for Vascular Medicine

The Society for Vascular Surgery, the American Venous Forum, and the American Vein and Lymphatic Society recently published Part I of the 2022 clinical practice guidelines on varicose veins. Recommendations were based on the latest scientific evidence researched following an independent systematic review and meta-analysis of five critical issues affecting the management of patients with lower extremity varicose veins, using the patients, interventions, comparators, and outcome system to answer critical questions. Part I discussed the role of duplex ultrasound scanning in the evaluation of varicose veins and treatment of superficial truncal reflux. Part II focuses on evidence supporting the prevention and management of varicose vein patients with compression, on treatment with drugs and nutritional supplements, on evaluation and treatment of varicose tributaries, on superficial venous aneurysms, and on the management of complications of varicose veins and their treatment. All guidelines were based on systematic reviews, and they were graded according to the level of evidence and the strength of recommendations, using the GRADE method. All ungraded Consensus Statements were supported by an extensive literature review and the unanimous agreement of an expert, multidisciplinary panel. Ungraded Good Practice Statements are recommendations that are supported only by indirect evidence. The topic, however, is usually noncontroversial and agreed upon by most stakeholders. The Implementation Remarks contain technical information that supports the implementation of specific recommendations. This comprehensive document includes a list of all recommendations (Parts I-II), ungraded consensus statements, implementation remarks, and best practice statements to aid practitioners with appropriate, up-to-date management of patients with lower extremity varicose veins.

Treatments for symptomatic class I patients in CEAP classification with saphenous vein reflux: A pilot study

BACKGROUND

For patients with telangiectasia or reticular veins (CEAP [clinical, etiologic, anatomic, pathophysiologic] class C1), less invasive endovenous (EV) treatments have emerged. However, no prospective studies have compared compression stockings (CSs) and EV ablation treatment for C1 symptomatic refluxing saphenous veins. The present prospective study compared the therapeutic results of the two treatment modalities.

METHODS

From June 2020 to December 2021, 46 patients with telangiectasia or reticular veins (<3 mm; class C1) with axial saphenous reflux and venous congestion symptoms were prospectively enrolled. The patients were assigned to CS (n = 21) or EV treatment (n = 25), according to patient preference. Complications, clinical improvement scales (eg, the venous clinical severity score [VCSS]), and quality of life, including the Aberdeen varicose vein symptom severity score (AVSS) and venous insufficiency epidemiological and economic study - quality of life/symptoms (VEINES-QOL/Sym), were evaluated and compared between the two groups at 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment.

RESULTS

No major complications occurred in either group. The median VCSS was 2.0 (interquartile range [IQR], 1.0-2.0), 1.0 (IQR, 0.5-2.0), 1.0 (IQR 0.0-1.0), and 0.0 (IQR 0.0-1.0) at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment in the CS group, respectively. The corresponding VCSSs were 3.0 (IQR, 1.0-3.0), 1.0 (IQR, 0.0-1.0), 0.0 (IQR, 0.0-0.0), and 0.0 (IQR, 0.0-0.0) in the EV group. The median AVSS was 4.4 (IQR, 3.0-5.5), 2.1 (IQR, 1.3-4.6), 1.0 (IQR, 0.0-2.8), and 0.0 (IQR, 0.0-1.8) at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment in the CS group, respectively. The corresponding scores were 6.2 (IQR, 3.8-12.3), 1.6 (IQR, 0.6-2.8), 0.0 (IQR, 0.0-2.6), and 0.0 (IQR, 0.0-0.4) in the EV group. The mean VEINES-QOL/Sym score was 92.7 ± 8.1, 100.4 ± 7.3, 104.3 ± 8.2, and 106.0 ± 9.7 in the CS group at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment, respectively. The corresponding scores were 83.6 ± 8.0, 102.9 ± 6.6, 107.9 ± 3.9, and 109.6 ± 3.7 in the EV group. Both groups showed considerable improvement in the VCSS, AVSS, and VEIN-SYM/QOL scores, and no significant between-group differences were observed for ≤6 months. Among the severely symptomatic patients (pretreatment VEINES-QOL/Sym score ≤90), the EV group exhibited more marked improvement (P = .029 for the VCSS and P = .030 for the VEINES-QOL/Sym score).

CONCLUSIONS

Both CSs and EV treatment provided clinical and quality of life improvement in symptomatic C1 patients with refluxing saphenous veins, with no significant between-group differences. However, a subgroup analysis revealed that EV treatment provided statistically significant improvement in the severe symptomatic C1 group.

Graduated compression stockings for the initial treatment of varicose veins in people without venous ulceration

BACKGROUND

Compression hosiery or stockings are often the first line of treatment for varicose veins in people without either healed or active venous ulceration. Evidence is required to determine whether the use of compression stockings can effectively manage and treat varicose veins in the early stages. This is the second update of a review first published in 2011.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of compression stockings for the only and initial treatment of varicose veins in people without healed or active venous ulceration.

SEARCH METHODS

For this update, the Cochrane Vascular Information Specialist searched the Cochrane Vascular Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and AMED databases and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and ClinicalTrials.gov trials registers to 12 May 2020. We also checked references of studies identified from the literature searches.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving people diagnosed with primary trunk varicose veins without healed or active venous ulceration (Clinical, Etiology, Anatomy, Pathophysiology (CEAP) classification C2 to C4). Included trials assessed compression stockings versus no treatment or placebo stockings, or compression stockings plus drug intervention versus drug intervention alone. We also included trials comparing different lengths and pressures of stockings. We excluded trials involving other types of treatment for varicose veins (either as a comparator to stockings or as an initial non-randomised treatment), including sclerotherapy and surgery.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We followed standard Cochrane methodology. Two review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion, extracted data, assessed risk of bias and assessed the certainty of the evidence using GRADE. Outcomes of interest were change in symptoms; physiological measures; complications; compliance; comfort, tolerance and acceptability of wearing stockings; and quality of life.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 13 studies with 1021 participants with varicose veins without healed or active venous ulceration. One study included pregnant women while other studies included participants who had sought medical intervention for their varicose veins by being on surgical waiting lists, or attending vascular surgery or dermatology clinics or outpatient departments. The stockings used in the studies exerted different levels of pressure, ranging from 10 mmHg to 50 mmHg. Five studies assessed compression stockings versus no compression stockings or placebo stockings. Three of these studies used knee-length stockings, one used full-length stockings and one used full tights. Eight studies compared different types or pressures of knee-length stockings. The risk of bias of many included trials was unclear, mainly because of inadequate reporting. We were unable to pool studies as they did not report the same outcomes or used different ways to assess them. Many studies were small and there were differences in the populations studied. The certainty of the evidence was therefore low to very low. Compression stockings compared with no treatment or placebo stockings All four studies that reported change in symptoms found a subjective improvement by the end of the study. However, change in symptoms was not always analysed by comparing the randomised arms of the studies and was therefore subject to bias. Two studies assessed physiological measures using either ankle circumference or duplex sonography to measure oedema. Ankle circumference showed no clear difference between baseline and follow-up while oedema was reduced in the stocking group compared with the placebo stocking group. Three studies reported complications or side effects with itching and irritation the main side effects reported. None of the trials reported severe side effects. Reports of compliance varied between studies. One study reported a high dropout rate with low levels of compliance due to discomfort, application and appearance; two studies reported generally good levels of compliance in the stocking group compared to placebo/no treatment. Two studies reported comfort, tolerance and acceptability with outcomes affected by the study population. Compression tights were increasingly rejected by pregnant women as their pregnancy progressed, while in one study of non-pregnant women, the stockings group showed no more hindrance of normal activities and daytime discomfort when compared with placebo stockings. One study reported quality of life showing no clear differences between the stocking and placebo stocking groups. Compression stockings compared with different compression stockings All five studies that reported change in symptoms found a subjective improvement in symptoms by the end of the study. Change in symptoms was not always analysed comparing the randomised arms of the trials and was therefore subject to bias. Five studies reported a variety of physiological measures such as foot volumetry, volume reduction and change in diameter. Generally, there were no clear differences between study arms. Four studies reported complications or side effects, including sweating, itching, skin dryness, and constriction and tightness. None of the trials reported severe side effects. Two studies reported compliance showing no difference in compliance rates between stockings groups, although one study reported high initial levels of dropout due to discomfort, appearance, non-effectiveness and irritation. Four studies reported comfort, tolerance and acceptability. Two studies reported similar levels of tolerance and discomfort between groups. Discomfort was the main reason for indicating a preference for one type of stocking over another. None of the studies assessed quality of life. No conclusions regarding the optimum length or pressure of compression stockings could be made as there were no conclusive results from the included studies.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is insufficient high-certainty evidence to determine whether or not compression stockings are effective as the sole and initial treatment of varicose veins in people without healed or active venous ulceration, or whether any type of stocking is superior to any other type. Future research should consist of large RCTs of participants with trunk varices either wearing or not wearing compression stockings to assess the efficacy of this intervention. If compression stockings are found to be beneficial, further studies assessing which length and pressure is the most efficacious could then take place.

Compression stockings in addition to low-molecular-weight heparin to prevent venous thromboembolism in surgical inpatients requiring pharmacoprophylaxis: the GAPS non-inferiority RCT

BACKGROUND

Patients admitted to hospital for surgery are at an increased risk of venous thromboembolism. Pharmaco-thromboprophylaxis and mechanical prophylaxis (usually graduated compression stockings or intermittent pneumatic compression) have been shown to reduce the incidence of venous thromboembolism. The evidence base supporting the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence's recommendation for the use of graduated compression stockings for venous thromboembolism prevention in the UK has recently been challenged. It is unclear if the risks and costs associated with graduated compression stockings are justified for deep-vein thrombosis prevention in moderate- and high-risk elective surgical inpatients receiving low-dose low-molecular-weight heparin pharmaco-thromboprophylaxis.

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective was to compare the venous thromboembolism rate in elective surgical inpatients at moderate or high risk of venous thromboembolism who were receiving either graduated compression stockings and low-dose low-molecular-weight heparin (standard care) or low-dose low-molecular-weight heparin alone (intervention).

DESIGN

This was a pragmatic, multicentre, prospective, non-inferiority, randomised controlled trial.

SETTING

This took place in secondary care NHS hospitals in the UK.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients aged ≥ 18 years who were assessed to be at moderate or high risk of venous thromboembolism according to the NHS England venous thromboembolism risk assessment tool (or the trust equivalent based on this form) and who were not contraindicated to low-molecular-weight heparin or graduated compression stockings were deemed eligible to take part.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were randomised 1 : 1 to either low-molecular-weight heparin or low-molecular-weight heparin and graduated compression stockings.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome measure was venous thromboembolism up to 90 days after surgery. A combined end point of duplex ultrasound-proven new lower-limb deep-vein thrombosis (symptomatic or asymptomatic) plus imaging-confirmed symptomatic pulmonary embolism. Secondary outcomes included quality of life, compliance with graduated compression stockings and low-molecular-weight heparin during admission, and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 1905 participants were randomised and 1858 were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. A primary outcome event occurred in 16 out of 937 (1.7%) patients in the low-molecular-weight heparin-alone arm compared with 13 out of 921 (1.4%) patients in the low-molecular-weight heparin plus graduated compression stockings arm. The risk difference between low-molecular-weight heparin and low-molecular-weight heparin plus graduated compression stockings was 0.30% (95% confidence interval -0.65% to 1.26%). As the 95% confidence interval did not cross the non-inferiority margin of 3.5% (p < 0.001 for non-inferiority), the results indicate that non-inferiority of low-molecular-weight heparin alone was shown.

LIMITATIONS

In total, 13% of patients did not receive a duplex ultrasound scan that could have detected further asymptomatic deep-vein thrombosis. However, missing scans were balanced between both trial arms. The subpopulation of those aged ≥ 65 years assessed as being at a moderate risk of venous thromboembolism was under-represented in the study; however, this reflects that this group is under-represented in the general population.

CONCLUSIONS

For elective surgical patients at moderate or high risk of venous thromboembolism, administration of pharmaco-thromboprophylaxis alone is non-inferior to a combination of pharmaco-thromboprophylaxis and graduated compression stockings. These findings indicate that graduated compression stockings may be unnecessary for most elective surgical patients.

FUTURE WORK

Further studies are required to evaluate whether or not adjuvant graduated compression stockings have a role in patients receiving extended thromboprophylaxis, beyond the period of hospital admission, following elective surgery or in patients undergoing emergency surgical procedures.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN13911492.

FUNDING

This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 24, No. 69. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

Textile-based compression therapy in managing chronic oedema: Complex interactions

BACKGROUND

Compression is a common therapy for management of chronic disease, including oedema of the lower limb. Modern compression interventions exert pressure on the lower limb through use of one or more materials which exert pressure against the limb over time. Where these materials are textiles, they range from elastic to inelastic, and are produced using knitting, weaving, or other textile technologies which can be manipulated to control performance properties. Thus, understanding of both the materials/textiles and the human body is needed if the most appropriate compression device and treatment strategy is to be used. Neither is independent of the other. This review aims to enhance understanding of critical textile performance properties and how selection of textiles may affect treatment efficacy when managing chronic oedema of the lower limb.

METHOD

Relevant papers for review were identified via PubMed Central® library, and Google Scholar using keywords associated with textile-based treatments of the oedematous lower limb and wider interdisciplinary factors.

RESULTS

Assessment of the disorder, the severity of oedema, and location of fluid accumulation are required to inform treatment of chronic oedema. While the need to understand the patient is well established (e.g. age, sex, body mass index, skin thickness and colour, patient compliance with treatment), information about preferred compression systems and material structures, and inherent properties of these, is generally lacking.

CONCLUSION

Greater detail about materials used (e.g. fabric structure, number and order of layers, fibre content) and patient diagnosis (e.g. underlying cause, severity, location of oedema; patient age and sex; evidence of compliance with treatment; pressure exerted; lower leg shape, size, and properties of the tissue) is needed to facilitate advances in efficacy of compression treatment. Reduced limb swelling with a textile-based treatment occurs simultaneously with changes to the textile itself. Textiles cannot be considered inert.

Compression Stocking Length Effects on Oedema, Pain, and Satisfaction in Nursing Students: A Pilot Randomized Trial

Professional practitioners who are required to stand for long periods of time frequently complain about vein-related symptoms. Compression stocking are effective for vein-related symptoms, but there is not enough evidence on the effect of the length of compression stockings for nursing students. To compare oedema, pain, and satisfaction according to different lengths of compression stockings worn by female nursing students. This study was conducted as a randomized clinical trial. The participants included 20 female nursing students in their first semester of clinical practice training. Compression stockings with 25–32 mmHg pressure were used in the study; the participants were divided into two groups based on the length of compression stocking: knee length and thigh length. Differences between groups regarding pain, oedema, and satisfaction were analysed using t-tests, paired t-tests, and Mann–Whitney U tests, when appropriate. There were no significant differences in pain, oedema, and satisfaction between the two groups. However, pain in right legs of the thigh-length stocking group significantly increased after clinical training shift compared with that before the shift (t = −2.377, p = 0.041). Both groups reported high satisfaction. There were no differences in pain, oedema, and satisfaction in both legs based on the length of compression stockings, but side effects appeared in participants wearing the thigh-length stockings; nevertheless, satisfaction was high in both groups. It may be important to suggest nursing students to wear knee-length compression stockings during clinical practice training.

Burden and Suffering in Chronic Venous Disease

Chronic venous disease (CVD) is widespread, underdiagnosed, and can progress to chronic venous insufficiency and venous ulcers, which can require extensive treatment and hospitalization. These conditions negatively impact patient quality of life and place substantial burdens on healthcare resources. The two main risk factors for CVD are age and obesity. Thus, with the growing prevalence of obesity and the increasing longevity of the population, the burden of CVD is expected to increase dramatically in the coming decades. Appropriate lifestyle changes and care, which may include treatment with venoactive drugs, can slow disease progression, improve quality of life, and are likely to reduce healthcare costs. Physicians should be aware of this growing problem and of the effective treatments available for CVD. We recommend the accompanying short summaries from a symposium held at the recent European Venous Forum as a means for our colleagues to learn more about the burden and suffering associated with CVD.

Funding: Servier.

How Does Chronic Venous Disease Progress from the First Symptoms to the Advanced Stages? A Review

Risk factors for the development of progression chronic venous disease (CVD) and varicose veins are widespread and include advanced age, excess body weight, sedentary lifestyles and occupations, family history, and pregnancy. Varicose veins and CVD are associated with venous hypertension, venous reflux, dysfunctional venous valves, and vein wall inflammation, though the precise etiologies are unclear. Once venous pathology develops, it can progress through a vicious cycle of inflammation and leukocyte recruitment that leads to further deterioration of vein walls and valves, increased hypertension, and release of additional proinflammatory mediators. Early treatment of symptomatic varicose veins and CVD as well as lifestyle changes can help break the inflammatory cycle and alleviate symptoms. Physicians and patients should be aware of the risk factors for CVD, the treatments and measures available to slow disease progression, and the serious consequences of allowing the disease to progress unchecked.

Funding: Servier (France).

The evidence supporting treatment of reflux and obstruction in chronic venous disease

On July 20, 2016, a Medicare Evidence Development and Coverage Advisory Committee panel convened to assess the evidence supporting treatment of chronic venous disease. Several societies addressed the questions posed to the panel. A multidisciplinary coalition, representing nine societies of venous specialists, reviewed the literature and presented a consensus opinion regarding the panel questions. The purpose of this paper is to present our coalition's consensus review of the literature and recommendations for chronic venous disease.

Report of the Society for Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum on the July 20, 2016 meeting of the Medicare Evidence Development and Coverage Advisory Committee panel on lower extremity chronic venous disease

On July 20, 2016, a Medicare Evidence Development and Coverage Advisory Committee panel assessed the benefits and risks of currently used lower extremity chronic venous disease (CVD) treatments and their effects on health outcome of the American adult population. The main purpose of the meeting was to advise the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on coverage determination for interventions used for treatment of CVD. A systematic review of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality was presented, followed by lectures of invited experts and a public hearing of representatives of professional societies and the industry. After discussing critical issues, the panel voted for key questions. This report summarizes the presented evidence to support recommendations of the Society for Vascular Surgery/American Venous Forum coalition and the presentations on selected discussion topics. These included important venous disease evidence gaps that have not been sufficiently addressed, venous disease treatment disparities and how they may affect the health outcomes of Medicare beneficiaries, and mechanisms that might be supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to improve the evidence base to optimize the care of patients with lower extremity CVD.

Evidence for varicose vein treatment: an overview of systematic reviews

BACKGROUND

Varicose veins affect nearly 30% of the world's population. This condition is a social problem and needs interventions to improve quality of life and reduce risks. Recently, new and less invasive methods for varicose vein treatment have emerged. There is a need to define the best treatment options and to reduce the risks and costs. Since there are cosmetic implications, treatments for which effectiveness remains unproven present risks to consumers and higher costs for stakeholders. These risks and costs justify conducting an overview of systematic reviews to summarize the evidence.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Overview of systematic reviews within the Discipline of Evidence-Based Health, at Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP).

METHODS

Systematic reviews on clinical or surgical treatments for varicose veins were included, with no restrictions on language or publication date.

RESULTS

51 reviews fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Outcomes and comparators were described, and a narrative review was conducted. Overall, there was no evidence that compression stockings should be recommended for patients as the initial treatment or after surgical interventions. There was low to moderate evidence that minimally invasive therapies (endovenous laser therapy, radiofrequency ablation or foam sclerotherapy) are as safe and effective as conventional surgery (ligation and stripping). Among these systematic reviews, only 18 were judged to present high quality.

CONCLUSIONS

There was evidence of low to moderate quality that minimally invasive treatments, including foam sclerotherapy, laser and radiofrequency therapy are comparable to conventional surgery, regarding effectiveness and safety for treatment of varicose veins.

Acute Effects of Graduated Elastic Compression Stockings in Patients with Symptomatic Varicose Veins: A Randomised Double Blind Placebo Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effectiveness of graduated elastic compression stockings (GECS) below the knee in improving symptoms in patients with varicose veins in the absence of high quality evidence.

METHODS

This was a randomised double blind placebo controlled trial. Thirty patients with no experience of elastic stockings, presenting with primary varicose veins causing calf pain or aching were randomised to a GECS (18-21 mmHg at the ankle level, n=15) or a placebo stocking (0 mmHg, n=15). Pain or aching of the index leg after 1 week was the primary outcome measure. In patients with bilateral varicose veins the leg with the most severe pain/aching was considered. Other defined symptoms were secondary outcome measures. All symptoms were scored on a visual analogue scale (VAS).

RESULTS

The two study groups were well balanced at baseline. At the completion of the study after 1 week, GECS were more effective than placebo stockings in reducing pain or aching (VAS score 1.7±3.0 vs. 4.5±2.8 for placebo, p=.02), while non-significant trends were observed for some of the remaining symptoms of the index leg, including feeling of swelling (VAS score 0.9±1.9 vs. 3.3±3.5 for placebo), paraesthesiae (VAS score 0.2±0.6 vs. 2.1±3.1 for placebo), and the number of symptoms other than pain or aching (1.3±1.1 vs. 2.8±1.7 for placebo). Number needed to treat (95% CI) for a 50% or complete improvement of pain or aching in the index leg was 2 (95% CI 1.2-5.5) and 2 (95% CI 1.2-5.3), respectively. Mean daily use of the placebo stockings and GECS was 8.0 hours and 10.2 hours, respectively (p=.13).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with varicose veins, GECS seem effective in ameliorating symptoms, particularly pain or aching, compared with placebo stockings after 1 week of use. Long-term studies are justified.

Compression therapy for congenital low-flow vascular malformations of the extremities: A systematic review

Introduction Low-flow vascular malformations are congenital abnormalities of the veins, capillaries or lymphatic vessels or a combination of the previous. Compressive garments are frequently used as a first-line treatment option for low-flow vascular malformations of the extremities with the purpose of relieving symptoms. Yet, the benefits and harms of compression stockings remain unclear. Methods A systematic search was performed in MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials including a hand search for studies measuring the benefits and harms of compression garments in treating low-flow vascular malformations. Two investigators performed study selection, quality assessment and data extraction independently. Results Of the 565 studies found, eventually five (totalling 101 patients with venous malformations or Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome receiving compression therapy) observational studies were included in the systematic review. Although the overall quality of these studies was poor, results suggest that compression garments might lessen intravascular coagulation, improve symptoms and appearance, diminish oedema, and protect against minor trauma. None of the studies quantified any harms of compression therapy. Conclusion Even though compression therapy is commonly used in the treatment of low-flow vascular malformations, available literature does not provide high-quality evidence to validate its use. We therefore advocate the need for prospective comparative trials with standardised outcome measures to study the benefits and harms of this treatment option.

Compression therapy for venous disease

For centuries, compression therapy has been utilized to treat venous disease. To date it remains the mainstay of therapy, particularly in more severe forms such as venous ulceration. In addition to mechanisms of benefit, we discuss the evidence behind compression therapy, particularly hosiery, in various forms of venous disease of the lower extremities. We review compression data for stand-alone therapy, post-intervention, as DVT prevention, post-thrombotic syndrome and venous ulcer disease. We also review the data comparing compression modalities as well as the use of compression in mixed arteriovenous disease.

A review of a new Dutch guideline for management of recurrent varicose veins

In 2013, the new Dutch guideline for "Venous Pathology" was published. The guideline was a revision and update from the guideline "Diagnostics and Treatment of Varicose Veins" from 2009 and the guideline "Venous Ulcer" from 2005. A guideline for "Deep Venous Pathology" and one for "Compression Therapy" was added to the overall guideline "Venous Pathology." The chapter about treatment of recurrent varicose veins after initial intervention was recently updated in 2015 and is reviewed here. The Dutch term "recidief varices" or the French "récidive de varices" should be used analogous to the English term "recurrent varicose veins." The DCOP Guideline Development Group Neovarices concluded that "recidief" in Dutch actually suggests recurrence after apparent successful treatment and ignores the natural progression of venous disease in its own right. So the group opted to use the term "neovarices." In the Dutch guideline, neovarices is meant to be an all embracing term for recurrent varicose veins caused by technical or tactical failure, evolvement from residual refluxing veins or natural progression of varicose vein disease at different locations of the treated leg after intervention. This report reviews the most important issues in the treatment of varicose vein recurrence, and discusses conclusions and recommendations of the Dutch Neovarices Guideline Committee.

Factors affecting patients' self-management in chronic venous disorders: a single-center study

BACKGROUND

The conservative treatment of chronic venous disorders (CVDs) includes pharmacotherapy, compression therapy, physiotherapy, and changes in lifestyle. These methods are available without prescription and not reimbursed by Polish National Health Service. Adherence to therapy is affected by poorly characterized patient-related factors.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to perform an assessment of factors that affect the usage and resignation from conservative methods in CVD self-management.

METHODS

A structured interview concerning self-management was carried out with 407 consecutive CVD patients of mean age 64.4 years (range: 23-87 years). All the patients had recently undergone Doppler examination and were classified in accordance with Clinical, Etiology, Anatomy, and Pathophysiology (CEAP) classification.

RESULTS

Pharmacotherapy was the most frequently (85.0% of respondents) used method in CVD self-management. Obese (odds ratio [OR] =1.75 [95% confidence interval {CI} 0.99-3.05]) and subjects with longer duration of the disease (OR =1.74 [95% CI 1.16-2.62]) were more likely to use venoactive drugs, while females used ointments commonly containing heparin (OR =1.82 [95% CI 1.08-3.03]). Compression therapy was perceived by respondents as the most difficult method in self-management (OR =2.50 [95% CI 1.61-3.88]) and was also recognized as the most effective method of treatment (OR =13.9 [95% CI 7.35-26.4]). Longer duration of CVD (≥15 years) increased (OR =1.78 [95% CI 1.16-2.71]) while obesity decreased (OR =0.38 [95% CI 0.20-0.72]) the utilization of compression therapy. Females were more likely to adhere to lifestyle changes than males (OR =1.68 [95% CI 0.97-2.90]). Physiotherapy was rarely used by the patients.

CONCLUSION

Obesity and longer duration of CVDs increase the use of venoactive drugs. Subjects with longer duration of the disease and without obesity are more likely to utilize compression therapy, the method considered to be the most effective but difficult in CVD self-management. Females are more prone to lifestyle changes and the use of heparin-containing ointments. There is an unmet need for health promotion regarding available CVD treatment methods and proper weight control measures to support CVD self-management.

French sclerotherapy and compression: Practice patterns

Based on the recommendations of experts, and supported by a low level of proof, compression after sclerotherapy is applied all over the world.

OBJECTIVE

Investigating the practice of French vascular physicians for sclerotherapy and the use of post-sclerotherapy compression.

METHODS

A questionnaire concerning their practices was sent to French vascular physicians through their regional vascular medicine professional development associations.

RESULTS

A total of 366 vascular physicians replied to the questionnaire, of whom 63% (229/366) were in private practice, 6% (21/366) in hospitals and 31% (115/366) had a mixed private-hospital practice. Sclerotherapy was practised by 88% (323/366) of them. Two-thirds of the vascular physicians used sclerosing foam and practised sclerotherapy using ultrasound guidance. Less than one-third of the vascular physicians regularly applied compression after sclerotherapy. When compression was applied, it was usually after treatment of saphenous or accessory saphenous veins and, in most cases, medical compression stockings of 15-20 mm Hg were used. With respect to the period recommended for wearing compression, this ranged from 48 h to 1 week for 65% (193/299) of the vascular physicians questioned.

CONCLUSION

The great majority of vascular physicians who answered the questionnaire employ ultrasound guidance to perform sclerotherapy and use sclerosing foam. Compression after sclerotherapy is diversely applied in France and does not comply with the recommendations of the French Health Authorities who recommend wearing a stocking of 15-20 or 20-36 mm Hg for a period of 4-6 weeks. Thus, less than one-third of the vascular physicians regularly used elastic compression and when they did, it was usually a medical compression stocking of 15-20 mm Hg, for 1 week or less.

Leg discomfort: beyond the joints

Although simple characterization of discomfort as cramps, heaviness, shooting pains, and so forth can be misleading, history and examination are key to accurate diagnosis. Absence of both dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial pulses strongly suggests peripheral arterial disease (PAD), and the presence of either pulse makes PAD less likely. Hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) are a common cause of lower extremity myalgias. Restless legs syndrome causes nocturnal discomfort but must be distinguished from confounding“mimics." Neurologic causes of leg symptoms include lumbar spinal stenosis, radiculopathy, distal symmetric polyneuropathy, and entrapment neuropathy. Many common causes of leg discomfort can be managed conservatively.

Compression stockings for the initial treatment of varicose veins in patients without venous ulceration

BACKGROUND

Compression hosiery or stockings are often the first line of treatment for varicose veins in people without either healed or active venous ulceration. Evidence is required to determine whether the use of compression stockings can effectively manage and treat varicose veins in the early stages. This is an update of a review first published in 2011.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of compression stockings for the only and initial treatment of varicose veins in patients without healed or active venous ulceration.

SEARCH METHODS

For this update the Cochrane Peripheral Vascular Diseases Group Trials Search Co-ordinator searched the Specialised Register (last searched August 2013) and CENTRAL (2013, Issue 5).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were included if they involved participants diagnosed with primary trunk varicose veins without healed or active venous ulceration (Clinical, Etiology, Anatomy, Pathophysiology (CEAP) classification C2 to C4). Included trials assessed compression stockings versus no treatment, compression versus placebo stockings, or compression stockings plus drug intervention versus drug intervention alone. Trials comparing different lengths and pressures of stockings were also included. Trials involving other types of treatment for varicose veins (either as a comparator to stockings or as an initial non-randomised treatment), including sclerotherapy and surgery, were excluded.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors assessed the trials for inclusion and quality (SS and LR). SS extracted the data, which were checked by LR. Attempts were made to contact trial authors where missing or unclear data were present.

MAIN RESULTS

Seven studies involving 356 participants with varicose veins without healed or active venous ulceration were included. Different levels of pressure were exerted by the stockings in the studies, ranging from 10 to 50 mmHg. One study assessed compression hosiery versus no compression hosiery. The other six compared different types or pressures of stockings. The methodological quality of all included trials was unclear, mainly because of inadequate reporting.The symptoms subjectively improved with the wearing of stockings across trials that assessed this outcome, but these assessments were not made by comparing one randomised arm of a trial with a control arm and are therefore subject to bias.Meta-analyses were not undertaken due to inadequate reporting and actual or suspected high levels of heterogeneity.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is insufficient, high quality evidence to determine whether or not compression stockings are effective as the sole and initial treatment of varicose veins in people without healed or active venous ulceration, or whether any type of stocking is superior to any other type. Future research should consist of a large RCT of participants with trunk varices either wearing or not wearing compression stockings to assess the efficacy of this intervention. If compression stockings are found to be beneficial, further studies assessing which length and pressure is the most efficacious could then take place.

Non-pharmacological interventions for preventing venous insufficiency in a standing worker population

BACKGROUND

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a common problem, affecting up to 50% of the population in industrialised countries. It is a chronic condition which, if untreated, can progress to serious complications that in turn can interfere with working ability. Standing at work is a known risk factor for CVI, yet the true effect of non-pharmacological preventive strategies remains unknown. This is an update of a review first published in 2012.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy of non-pharmacological strategies and devices to prevent CVI in a standing worker population.

SEARCH METHODS

For this update the Cochrane Peripheral Vascular Diseases Group Trials Search Co-ordinator searched the Specialised Register (last searched September 2013) and CENTRAL (2013, Issue 8). We also handsearched reference lists of relevant studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and non-randomised controlled trials that recruited standing workers to evaluate non-pharmacological devices or strategies used to prevent CVI were eligible for inclusion. Trials had to report an objective measure of clinical features of CVI or complaints associated with this condition in order to be included.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Selection of the trials, quality assessment and data abstraction were completed independently by two review authors. We resolved disagreements by discussion. Only one trial was eligible for inclusion in the review so we did not perform meta-analyses.

MAIN RESULTS

The primary outcomes of this review were clinical features of CVI and its associated symptoms. No new included studies were identified for this update. One prospective cross-over trial was included in this review. It measured the effect of no compression followed by two phases with different gradients of compression stockings on symptoms in 19 female flight attendants who were required to stand, almost continuously, for long periods of time. The included study provided some evidence that compression stockings improved symptoms of leg fatigue in standing workers. However, the strength of the evidence in this review is weak as it is based on only one very small trial which was at high risk of bias. The included study did not address any of the secondary outcomes including quality of life or economic impact of the interventions. Nor did the study report the length of time that the population were required to stand at work. Furthermore, no trials were found which measured the effectiveness of other non-pharmacological interventions or strategies aimed at preventing CVI in standing workers.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Due to the extremely limited number of trials, there is insufficient evidence to draw any conclusions about the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions for preventing CVI in standing workers. Further large-scale studies examining all possible non-pharmacological interventions and outcomes are required.

Short-term gain for long-term pain? Which patients should be treated and should we ration?

Objectives:

Treatments of common conditions which do not affect mortality often become sidelined in the drive to improve efficiency and reduce costs. The rationing of patients is a divisive but crucial component to universal health care. How should this be accomplished?

Methods and Results:

In this article we examine the outcomes of various rationing methods in varicose veins.

Conclusions:

No method is perfect and treatment of symptoms and complications should remain the target for all physicians.

Guidelines for the management of varicose veins

Recently published evidence-based guidelines of the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) and the American Venous Forum (AVF) include recommendations for evaluation, classification, outcome assessment and therapy of patients with varicose veins and more advanced chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). The need for such guidelines has been evident since imaging techniques and minimally invasive technologies have progressed by leaps and bounds and radiofrequency ablation, laser and sclerotherapy have largely replaced classical open surgery of saphenous stripping. This report reviews the most important guidelines recommended by the SVS/AVF Venous Guideline Committee. It is obvious, however, that some of the technology that is recommended in North America is either not available or not affordable in some parts of the world for patients with varicose veins and CVI. The readers are urged therefore to also consult the guidelines of their national societies, recent publications of the National Institute for Clinical Excellence and the Venous Forum of the Royal Society of Medicine. Venous specialists should also keep in mind that scientific evidence should always be combined with the physician's clinical experience and the patient's preference when the best treatment is selected for an individual patient.

The relevance of the natural history of varicose veins and refunded care

Chronic venous disease (CVD) is one of the most common diseases in our population. Aside from venous symptoms like heaviness and pain, which are present in about 50% of the general population, signs of CVD include varicose veins (VVs), oedema, eczema, venous eczema, hyperpigmentation, white atrophy, lipodermatosclerosis and venous ulcers. The aim of this paper is to review current literature for the relevance of natural history of VVs in refunded care. Available papers on VVs, progression of the disease and complications were reviewed. Prevalence of VVs is high with more than 20% in the general population. Information on progression of uncomplicated VV to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is rare. However, most venous ulcers have a primary venous origin. The progression rate of VV to higher clinical stages reaches 4% per year. Among the risk factors are obesity and higher age. Quality of life (QOL) is also reduced in uncomplicated VV in C2 patients. In conclusion, there is evidence from the literature that a high proportion of patients with uncomplicated VVs in the clinical, aetiological, anatomical and pathophysiological classification (CEAP Clinical Class 2) will progress to CVI if untreated. VVs have a negative impact on QOL and clinical symptoms. VV patients with CVI (C3-C6) as well as those C2 patients with severe clinical symptoms and impaired QOL due to CVD should be treated with ablation of the VVs in a refunded care system.

Development of separated elastic stockings

Objectives

To investigate the acceptability of newly developed separated elastic stockings, which are divided into two portions at the ankle.

Methods

The difficulty in putting on and taking off stockings was compared between the original or modified separated stockings with various techniques in order to reduce the shift of the stockings and current non-separated stockings in healthy volunteers and patients with lymphoedema by applying both stockings alternately. In the modified model, the shift during daily activities was measured in healthy volunteers and patients with lymphoedema.

Results

The two items, ‘easier compared with non-separated stockings’ and ‘much easier’, were chosen at rates of 75% and 81% for putting on and taking off stockings for the original separated stockings and 75% and 75% for the modified separated stockings, respectively. Complaints during daily activities with the modified type to the stockings decreased as compared with the original type. The shift of stockings after an average 11-hour application was 1.6 ± 3.0 SD mm (range: 0–10 mm).

Conclusions

Modified separated elastic stockings are easier to put on and take off compared with current non-separated stockings, and they can be used safely because of their low-level shift during daily activities.

Compression Hosiery for Occupational Leg Symptoms and Leg Volume: A Randomized Crossover Trial in a Cohort of Hairdressers

Objective:

Occupational leg symptoms are highly prevalent in the general population and impair the psychic state of health. We investigated hairdressers, a cohort exposed to prolonged standing during work, in a randomized crossover trial. We hypothesized that hairdressers wearing low-strength compression hosiery would benefit from less leg volume increase and discomfort.

Methods:

One hundred and eight hairdressers were randomized to wear medical compression stockings (MCS; 15–20 mmHg) in a crossover study. The effect of MCS on symptoms and on lower leg volume was compared with no compression treatment. Symptoms were assessed with a comprehensive questionnaire, categorized using factor analysis with varimax rotation and correlated with leg volume changes.

Results:

Wearing MCS reduced the symptom score for pain and feelings of swelling (range 0–4) by an average of 0.22 (12%, P < 0.001). Sleep disturbance, feeling of unattractive legs and depressiveness improved with MCS compared with no MCS. Subjects initially obliged to refrain from wearing stockings showed a significant decrease of pain and feelings of swelling as well (by 0.10 [6%], P = 0.015). Wearing MCS was associated with a decrease of lower leg volume by an average of 19 mL ( P < 0.001), with preference in older hairdressers ( P < 0.001). The effects of wearing MCS on symptoms and on leg volume were not correlated with each other.

Conclusions:

Individuals working in a standing profession experience leg pain, feelings of swelling, heaviness and various other disturbing feelings. These symptoms can be alleviated by wearing low-strength MCS.

Treatment Options, Clinical Outcome (Quality of Life) and Cost Benefit (Quality-adjusted Life Year) in Varicose Vein Treatment

Varicose veins are an extremely common condition causing morbidity; however, with current financial pressures, treatment of such benign diseases is controversial. Many procedures allow the treatment of varicose veins with minimal cost and extensive literature supporting differing approaches. Here we explore the underlying evidence base for treatment options, the effect on clinical outcome and the cost-benefit economics associated with varicose vein treatment. The method of defining clinical outcome with quality-of-life assessment tools is also investigated to explain concepts of treatment success beyond abolition of reflux.

What is the Medical Rationale for the Treatment of Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins occur in up to one-third of Western populations and are associated with clinical manifestations ranging from asymptomatic, isolated varicose veins (C2 disease) to venous ulceration. While the development of less invasive treatment options, such as endovenous ablation and sclerotherapy, have been well accepted by patients they have led to increased utilization of scarce healthcare resources. While few would argue with the treatment of acute complications such as superficial venous thrombosis and variceal haemorrhage, the role of interventional treatment in the management of lifestyle limiting symptoms and the prevention of disease progression may be debatable. Good-quality evidence does suggest that surgical management of varicose veins is associated with improved quality of life at costs below the thresholds of many Western healthcare systems. However, the progression of isolated C2 disease to advanced chronic venous insufficiency occurs infrequently and the role of treatment to prevent such progression remains undefined at present.

Non-pharmacological interventions for preventing venous insufficiency in a standing worker population

BACKGROUND

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a common problem, affecting up to 50% of the population in industrialised countries. It is a chronic condition which, if untreated, can progress to serious complications that in turn can interfere with working ability. Standing at work is a known risk factor for CVI, yet the true effect of non-pharmacological preventive strategies remains unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To undertake a systematic review of randomised or controlled clinical trials to assess the efficacy of non-pharmacological strategies and devices to prevent CVI in a standing worker population.

SEARCH METHODS

The Cochrane Peripheral Vascular Diseases (PVD) Group searched their Specialised Register (last searched April 2011) and CENTRAL (Issue 2, 2011). No date or language restrictions were applied. We also handsearched reference lists of relevant studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised and non-randomised controlled trials that recruited standing workers to evaluate non-pharmacological devices or strategies used to prevent CVI were eligible for inclusion. Trials had to report an objective measure of clinical features of CVI or complaints associated with this condition in order to be included.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Selection of the trials, quality assessment and data abstraction were completed independently by two review authors. We resolved disagreements by discussion. Only one trial was eligible for inclusion in the review so we did not perform meta-analyses.

MAIN RESULTS

The primary outcomes of this review were clinical features of CVI and its associated symptoms. One prospective cross-over trial was included in this review. It measured the effect of no compression followed by two phases with different gradients of compression stockings on symptoms in 19 female flight attendants who were required to stand, almost continuously, for long periods of time. The included study provided some evidence that compression stockings improved symptoms of leg fatigue in standing workers. However, the strength of the evidence in this review is weak as it is based on only one very small trial which was at high risk of bias. The included study did not address any of the secondary outcomes including quality of life or economic impact of the interventions. Nor did the study report the length of time that the population were required to stand at work. Furthermore, no trials were found which measured the effectiveness of other non-pharmacological interventions or strategies aimed at preventing CVI in standing workers.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Due to the extremely limited number of trials, there is insufficient evidence to draw any conclusions about the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions for preventing CVI in standing workers. Further large-scale studies examining all possible non-pharmacological interventions and outcomes are required.

Compression stockings for the initial treatment of varicose veins in patients without venous ulceration

BACKGROUND

Compression hosiery or stockings are often the first line of treatment for varicose veins in people without either healed or active venous ulceration. Evidence is required to determine whether the use of compression stockings can effectively manage and treat varicose veins in the early stages.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of compression stockings for the initial treatment of varicose veins in patients without healed or active venous ulceration.

SEARCH METHODS

The Cochrane Peripheral Vascular Disease Group searched their Specialised Register (last searched 31 May 2011) and CENTRAL (2011, Issue 2). In addition, the reference lists of relevant articles were searched. Authors of ongoing and current trials were contacted. There were no language restrictions.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were included if they involved participants diagnosed with primary trunk varicose veins without healed or active venous ulceration (Clinical, Etiology, Anatomy, Pathophysiology (CEAP) classification C2 to C4). Included trials assessed compression stockings versus no treatment, compression versus placebo stockings, or compression stockings + drug intervention versus drug intervention alone. Trials comparing different lengths and pressures of stockings were also included. Trials involving other types of treatment for varicose veins (either as a comparator to stockings or as an initial non-randomised treatment), including sclerotherapy and surgery, were excluded.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors assessed the trials for inclusion and quality (SS and LR). SS extracted the data, which were checked by LR. Attempts were made to contact trial authors where missing or unclear data were present.

MAIN RESULTS

Seven studies involving 356 participants with varicose veins without healed or active venous ulceration were included. Different levels of pressure were exerted by the stockings in the studies, ranging from 10 to 50 mmHg. One study assessed compression hosiery versus no compression hosiery. The other six compared different types or pressures of stockings. The methodological quality of all included trials was unclear, mainly because of inadequate reporting.The symptoms subjectively improved with the wearing of stockings across trials that assessed this outcome, but these assessments were not made by comparing one randomised arm of a trial with a control arm and are therefore subject to bias.Meta-analyses were not undertaken due to inadequate reporting and actual or suspected high levels of heterogeneity.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is insufficient, high quality evidence to determine whether or not compression stockings are effective as the sole and initial treatment of varicose veins in people without healed or active venous ulceration, or whether any type of stocking is superior to any other type. Future research should consist of a large RCT of participants with trunk varices either wearing or not wearing compression stockings to assess the efficacy of this intervention. If compression stockings are found to be beneficial, further studies assessing which length and pressure is the most efficacious could then take place.

The impact of insurance company mandated compression stocking trial on rate of intervention in patients with symptomatic venous reflux disease

OBJECTIVE

Insurance companies have criteria for a venous intervention to be a covered procedure, including symptoms, vein size, and a trial of conservative therapy with compression stockings. The goal of this study was to see the impact of such mandated stocking use on ultimate intervention.

METHOD

A retrospective review was done of prospectively gathered data entered in the electronic medical record. Two-hundred consecutive new patients evaluated at our vein center were included.

RESULTS

Forty-four of the 200 patients did not require any procedures and 39 patients had procedures scheduled for small or asymptomatic venous changes that did not meet insurance criteria. This left 117 patients with venous symptoms in whom evaluation concluded that a corrective procedure could be performed. These interventions included largely radiofrequency ablation and phlebectomy. Of these 117 patients, 48 had previously used compression stockings. In the remaining 69 patients, stockings were provided on the day of initial consultation and these 69 patients served as the subjects for this review. At three month follow up, one patient reported the stockings help enough that she did not want to pursue correction. Two patients had continued pain and were planning correction once other unrelated issues resolved. Three patients said they never wore the stockings. Sixty-one patients had procedures performed. The average length of stocking use in patients who chose corrective procedures was 103 days. One patient could not be reached.

CONCLUSION

Of the patients that reported they used the stockings as prescribed, one chose chronic stocking therapy and 63 patients either had procedures or were planning procedures. Use of prescription stockings was effective in avoiding intervention in one of 64 cases (2%), despite an average trial of 103 days. These results cast doubt on the merits of the use of an insurance company mandated stocking trial.