[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.

Whole-lesion assessment of volume and signal changes after sclerotherapy of extremity venous malformations

PURPOSE

To investigate quantitative changes in MRI signal intensity (SI) and lesion volume that indicate treatment response and correlate these changes with clinical outcomes after percutaneous sclerotherapy (PS) of extremity venous malformations (VMs).

METHODS

VMs were segmented manually on pre- and post-treatment T2-weighted MRI using 3D Slicer to assess changes in lesion volume and SI. Clinical outcomes were scored on a 7-point Likert scale according to patient perception of symptom improvement; treatment response (success or failure) was determined accordingly.

RESULTS

Eighty-one patients with VMs underwent 125 PS sessions. Treatment success occurred in 77 patients (95 %). Mean (±SD) changes were -7.9 ± 24 cm3 in lesion volume and -123 ± 162 in SI (both, P <.001). Mean reduction in lesion volume was greater in the success group (-9.4 ± 24 cm3) than in the failure group (21 ± 20 cm3) (P =.006). Overall, lesion volume correlated with treatment response (ρ = -0.3, P =.004). On subgroup analysis, volume change correlated with clinical outcomes in children (ρ = -0.3, P =.03), in sodium tetradecyl sulfate-treated lesions (ρ = -0.5, P =.02), and in foot lesions (ρ = -0.6, P =.04). SI change correlated with clinical outcomes in VMs treated in 1 PS session (ρ = -0.3, P =.01) and in bleomycin-treated lesions (ρ = -0.4, P =.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Change in lesion volume is a reliable indicator of treatment response. Lesion volume and SI correlate with clinical outcomes in specific subgroups.

Endoscopic treatment of bleeding gastric ulcer causing gastric wall necrosis: A case report

BACKGROUND

Gastric wall necrosis is a rare complication of endoscopic treatment for bleeding gastric ulcer, which may exacerbate the patient’s condition once it occurs and may even require surgical intervention for treatment.

CASE SUMMARY

A 59-year-old man was admitted to our department with melena. Endoscopy revealed a giant ulcer in the gastric antrum with a visible vessel in its center, which was treated with sclerosants and tissue glue injection and resulted in necrosis of the gastric wall.

CONCLUSION

Injection of sclerosants and tissue glue may lead to gastric wall necrosis, which is a serious complication. Therefore, before administering this treatment to patients, we should consider other more effective methods of hemostasis to avoid gastric wall necrosis.

Outcome of bleomycin electrosclerotherapy of slow-flow malformations in adults and children

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the safety and clinical outcome of bleomycin electrosclerotherapy (BEST) for treating extracranial slow-flow malformations.

METHODS

In this retrospective investigation of a multicenter cohort presenting symptomatic slow-flow malformations, patient records were analyzed with respect to procedural details and complications. A treatment-specific, patient-reported questionnaire was additionally evaluated, obtained 3-12 months after the last treatment, to assess the subjective outcomes, including mobility, aesthetic aspects, and pain, as well as the occurrence of postprocedural skin hyperpigmentation. All outcome parameters were compared according to patients' age.

RESULTS

Overall, 325 BEST treatments were performed in 233 patients after intralesional and/or intravenous bleomycin injection. The total complication rate was 10.2% (33/325), including 29/352 (8.9%) major complications. Patient-reported mobility decreased in 10/133 (8.8%), was stable in 30/113 (26.5%), improved in 48/113 (42.5%), and was rated symptom-free in 25/113 (22.1%) patients. Aesthetic aspects were rated impaired compared to baseline in 19/113 (16.8%), stable in 21/133 (18.6%), improved in 62/113 (54.9%), and perfect in 11/133 (9.7%) patients. Postprocedural skin hyperpigmentation occurred in 78/113 (69%) patients, remaining unchanged in 24/78 (30.8%), reduced in 51/78 (65.5%), and completely resolved in 3/78 (3.8%) patients. The median VAS pain scale was 4.0 (0-10) preprocedural and 2.0 (0-9) postprocedural. Children/adolescents performed significantly better in all parameters compared to adults (≥ 16 years) (mobility, p = 0.011; aesthetic aspects, p < 0.001; pain, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

BEST is effective for treating slow-flow vascular malformations, with few but potentially significant major complications. Regarding patient-reported outcomes, children seem to benefit better compared to older patients, suggesting that BEST should not be restricted to adults.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

Bleomycin electrosclerotherapy is a safe and effective approach and therapy should not be restricted to adults due to good clinical outcomes in children.

Head and Neck Vascular Anomalies in Children

Craniomaxillofacial vascular anomalies encompass a diverse and complex set of pathologies that may have a profound impact on pediatric patients. They are subdivided into vascular tumors and vascular malformations depending on biological properties, clinical course, and distribution patterns. Given the complexity and potential for leading to significant functional morbidity and esthetic concerns, a multidisciplinary approach is generally necessary to optimize patient outcomes. This article reviews the etiology, clinical course, diagnosis, and current management practices related to vascular anomalies in the head and neck.

Polidocanol-foam treatment of varicose veins: Quality-of-life impact compared to conventional surgery

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Lower limb varicose veins are a prevalent disease associated with several available treatment options, including conventional surgery and polidocanol foam sclerotherapy. However, few studies have analyzed therapeutic modality outcomes based on Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs). This large sample-size study was designed to evaluate the outcomes of polidocanol foam sclerotherapy compared to conventional surgery based on an analysis of PROMs.

METHODS

This was a prospective, observational, and qualitative study of 205 patients who underwent varicose vein treatment with either polidocanol foam sclerotherapy (57 patients, 90 legs) or conventional surgery (148 patients, 236 legs). Patients were preoperatively assessed and re-evaluated 30 days after the procedure using the Venous Disease Severity Score (VCSS) and specific venous disease quality-of-life questionnaires (VEINES-QoL/Sym).

RESULTS

Both treatments significantly improved VCSS and VEINES results 30 days after the procedure (p < 0.05). However, surgery promoted greater improvements in VCSS (on average 4.02-points improvement, p < 0.001), VEINES-QoL (average 8-points improvement, p < 0.001), and VEINES-Sym (average 11.66 points improvement, p < 0.001) than did sclerotherapy. Postoperative pain and aesthetic concerns about the legs were the domains of the questionnaires in which the results varied the most between the treatment modalities, with worse results for sclerotherapy.

CONCLUSION

Both polidocanol foam sclerotherapy and conventional surgery positively impact patients' quality of life after 30 days, but the improvement is more significant for patients who undergo conventional surgery.

[Management of pediatric vascular malformations]

BACKGROUND

Vascular malformations belong to the group of vascular anomalies. They are rare congenital diseases resulting from abnormal development of vessels and can arise in any location, often in the head and neck region. Clinical symptoms are variable, functional handicaps and esthetic problems may result.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One differentiates between arteriovenous, lymphatic, venous, and capillary malformations and combinations thereof. Their classification, symptoms, diagnostics, and treatment options are discussed.

RESULTS

The different types of vascular malformations as well as their clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, and therapeutic options are presented, supported by clinical examples.

CONCLUSION

Interdisciplinary care of pediatric patients with vascular malformations is essential in order to generate a treatment concept after correct diagnosis and improve symptoms and quality of life.

Safety and Clinical Outcomes of Two-Session Catheter-Directed Sclerotherapy Using Ethanol for Endometrioma

PURPOSE

To evaluate the safety and clinical outcome of two-session catheter-directed sclerotherapy (CDS) with 99% ethanol in patients with endometrioma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective study was approved by the institutional review board with written informed consent obtained from all participants and was registered on clinicaltrial.gov. Consecutive patients with ovarian endometrioma between June 2020 and March 2023 were prospectively evaluated for two sessions of CDS. After successful transvaginal ultrasound-guided puncture of the endometrioma, the biopsy needle was exchanged for a 7- or 8.5-F catheter for aspiration and ethanol injection. The catheter was retained in situ for a second session the next day. Endometrioma volume was measured on ultrasound before and 1, 3, and 6 months after CDS, and volume reduction ratio (VRR) was calculated. Serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) was measured before and 6 months after CDS to assess ovarian reserve.

RESULTS

Thirty-one endometriomas in 22 patients (mean age, 31.0 years; range, 19-44 years) were treated; 28 endometriomas were successfully treated with two-session CDS, while one session was incomplete in three endometriomas in three patients due to contrast medium leakage or pain. Minor procedure-related complications developed in four patients and resolved spontaneously before discharge on the same day of the second session. No recurrence was identified during follow-up. At the 6-month follow-up, the mean endometrioma diameter decreased from 5.5 ± 1.7 to 1.4 ± 0.9 cm (P < 0.001), and the serum AMH level was lowered without statistical significance (1.37 ± 0.96 ng/mL vs. 1.18 ± 0.92 ng/mL; P = 0.170). VRRs at 1, 3, and 6 months after CDS were 84.3 ± 13.7%, 94.3 ± 5.8%, and 96.4 ± 4.7%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Two-session CDS with 99% ethanol is safe, feasible, and effective for treating endometrioma with the ovarian function well preserved.

Effectiveness of polidocanol sclerotherapy in alleviating symptoms in patients with venous malformations

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the effectiveness of polidocanol in managing pain, swelling, functional limiting and cosmetic disorders in patients with venous malformations (VMs).

METHODS

This retrospective study included patients who underwent sclerotherapy with polidocanol for VMs between 2020 and 2022. Patient records, imaging findings, and evaluation questionnaires used in the preprocedure and follow-up phases were reviewed. After sclerotherapy, patients were followed up at 1, 2, 3, and 6 months. During these visits, the previously used 11-point verbal numerical rating scale (from 0 [no pain] to 10 [worst pain thinkable]) was used to evaluate the severity of symptoms such as pain, swelling, cosmetic discomfort, and functional limitation, and patients were asked to report the number of days per week they experienced these symptoms owing to the VM.

RESULTS

A total of 194 sclerotherapy procedures (mean, 1.6 ± 0.3 procedures) in 84 patients (55 female and 29 male patients; mean age, 22.45 ± 11.83 years) were conducted. The majority of these malformations (81%, or 68 patients) were located in the extremities. We found a significant decrease in pain, swelling, functional limitation, cosmetic appearance, and number of painful days between all time points, except for the comparison between months 3 and 6 (P < .001) CONCLUSIONS: Polidocanol sclerotherapy is a safe and effective treatment for VMs that significantly decreases patient complaints and has a very low complication rate. Particularly, following patients at short intervals and administering additional sclerotherapy sessions when necessary will significantly increase patient satisfaction.

Comparison of bleomycin polidocanol foam vs electrochemotherapy combined with polidocanol foam for treatment of venous malformations

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the difference in safety and efficacy between two treatments for venous malformations (VMs), electrochemotherapy combined with polidocanol foam (ECP) and bleomycin polidocanol foam (BPF), providing alternative therapies for VMs.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of 152 patients with VMs treated with ECP and BPF. Pre- and post-treatment magnetic resonance images (MRIs) were collected, and clinical follow-up assessments were performed. Imaging results were used to calculate lesion volume changes. Clinical outcomes included changes in pain and improvements in perceived swelling. Patients were followed up at 1 week and 6 months after surgery. All emerging complications were documented in detail.

RESULTS

Of the 152 patients, 87 (57.2%) received BPF treatment, and 65 (42.8%) received ECP treatment. The most common location of VMs was the lower extremities (92/152; 60.2%), and the most common symptom was pain (108/152; 71.1%). Forty-three patients had previously undergone therapy in the BPF group (43/87; 49.4%), whereas 30 patients had received prior treatment in the ECP group (30/65; 46.2%). The study found that the percentage of lesion volume reduction in the BPF group was not significantly different from that in the ECP group (75.00% ± 17.85% vs 74.69% ± 8.48%; P = .899). ECP was more effective when the initial lesion volume was greater than 30 mL (67.66% ± 12.34% vs 73.47% ± 8.00%; P = .048). Patients treated with BPF had significantly less posttreatment pain than those treated with ECP, in different baseline lesion size. In the overall sample, pain relief was significantly higher in the BPF group than in the ECP group (4.21 ± 1.19 vs 3.57 ± 0.76; P = .002). However, there was no difference in pain relief between the two groups for the treatment of initially large VMs (4.20 ± 0.94 vs 3.70 ± 0.87; P = .113). The ECP group was significantly more likely to develop hyperpigmentation (5/87; 5.75% vs 11/65; 16.92%; P = .026) and swelling (9/87; 10.34% vs 16/65; 24.62%; P = .019) 1 week after surgery than the BPF group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates that both BPF and ECP are effective treatments for VMs, with BPF being a safer option. ECP is a better choice for patients with the initial lesion volume greater than 30 mL, but it is more likely to lead to early swelling and hyperpigmentation.

Indications, Options, and Updates on Embolic Agents

Interventional approaches to head and neck vascular anomalies have evolved with our understanding of disease pathologic condition and advances in medical and surgical treatment. Embolization's role in the disease management ranges from stand-alone treatment with curative intent to adjunctive or even palliative, depending on the lesion. This decision is best made through multidisciplinary collaboration among surgeons, interventionalists, and medical specialists. Finally, setting realistic expectations with the patient and family is a crucial step preceding any intervention. This article elaborates on the considerations influencing a given treatment plan and specific interventional strategy.

Efficacy of Ethanol Sclerotherapy Versus Laparoscopic Excision in the Treatment of Ovarian Endometrioma

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the recurrence rates of ovarian endometrioma, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and related complications between sclerotherapy and laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy in individuals aged 25 to 38.

Methods

Eighty-eight women participated in this retrospective, single-center study between January 2020 and February 2022. Patients received either laparoscopy or sclerotherapy, depending on the opinion of the pertinent physician. In this study, the following parameters were retrospectively analyzed in follow-up visits 2, 6 and 12 months after sclerotherapy and laparoscopy: dysmenorrhea and dyspareunia by visual analog scale, complications following the intervention, and serial pelvic sonograms for endometrioma cyst recurrence. Moreover, serum Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) level before and 6 months after sclerotherapy/surgery were analyzed. The collected data were then analyzed using R software.

Results

The results demonstrate the efficiency of both sclerotherapy and laparoscopic techniques in reducing endometrioma-related dysmenorrhea and dyspareunia over a 12-month period. There was no statistically significant difference in the occurrence of complications and recurrence rate between these two therapies, and both are equally beneficial. Also, the rate of AMH decline after laparoscopy was higher than sclerotherapy; however there was not a statistically significant change in serum level of AMH in laparoscopy compared to the sclerotherapy after 6 months.

Conclusion

Considering all the data, it appears that sclerotherapy, with its lower cost, shorter hospital stay, and quicker return to activities, can be a laparoscopic alternative to endometrioma cyst removal. More studies are required.

Efficacy of Bleomycin-Lauromacrogol Foam in Pediatric Macrocystic Lymphatic Malformations With and Without Intracapsular Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Sclerotherapy is purportedly less effective in patients with hemorrhagic than with non-hemorrhagic lymphatic malformations (LMs). We aimed to compare the efficacy of bleomycin-lauromacrogol foam (BLF) sclerotherapy in the treatment of macrocystic LMs with and without intralesional hemorrhage.

METHODS

Fifty-five children with macrocystic LMs admitted to the Pediatric Surgery Department were retrospectively included. The patients were allocated into a hemorrhage group (23 cases) or a non-hemorrhage group (32 cases) based on the occurrence of an intracapsular hemorrhage. The diagnosis was confirmed by physical examination, color ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, and puncture findings. BLF was injected into the capsule after draining the cystic fluid under color ultrasound guidance. Patients whose lesions were unchanged or showed minor change after 1 month were treated again using the same method. Changes in lesion size and the number of treatments were recorded. Effectiveness was classified as excellent (volume reduction ≥90%), good (50%≤volume reduction<90%), or poor (volume reduction <50%).

RESULTS

In the hemorrhage group, 17, 6, and 0 patients' outcomes were classified as excellent, good, and poor, respectively. The overall efficacy rate was 100%. In the non-hemorrhage group, 23, 7, and 2 patients' outcomes were classified as excellent, good, and poor, respectively. The overall efficacy rate was 93.8%. There was no significant difference in efficacy rate between groups (P = 0.767).

CONCLUSIONS

BLF is an effective and safe treatment for macrocystic LMs with bleeding. The results were similar in patients with and without bleeding.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Treatment, Level III.

Sclerotherapy for hemorrhoidal disease: systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of sclerotherapy methods for hemorrhoidal disease (HD) over the past 40 years.

METHODS

The review followed the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was conducted, including studies reporting the use of sclerotherapy in patients with HD. Study eligibility criteria were defined, and data were extracted independently by the authors. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed to assess outcomes of interest.

RESULTS

Out of 1965 records identified, 44 studies met the inclusion criteria, involving 9729 patients. The majority of studies were conducted in Japan, followed by the UK, Italy, and Portugal. The median age of participants was 52 years, and the majority were male. The Goligher grade distribution indicated varying degrees of HD severity. Sclerotherapy was predominantly administered through anoscopy, with polidocanol being the most commonly used agent. The procedure was generally performed without pre-injection analgesia. The meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) revealed that sclerotherapy was not inferior to control interventions in terms of success rate (risk ratio [RR] 1.00, 95% CI 0.71-1.41) and recurrence rate (RR 1.11, 95% CI 0.69-1.77), while resulting in fewer complications (RR 0.46, 95% CI 0.23-0.92).

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review highlights the safety and efficacy of sclerotherapy for HD, which yields similar success rates and fewer complications compared to other conservative or surgical approaches. Further research is warranted to optimize sclerotherapy techniques and evaluate long-term outcomes.

REGISTRATION

PROSPERO 2023 CRD42023396910.

[Suspected pulmonary nodule in a male heavy smoker: Is biopsy really necessary?]

INTRODUCTION

Sclerotherapy is a widely used as a lifesaving therapeutic option in cases of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGB) due to ruptured gastro-esophageal varices (GOV) in cirrhotic patients, especially when there exists a portosystemic shunt. This endoscopic technique can entail many complications, including systemic and non-thrombotic pulmonary embolism (PE). While multiple pulmonary parenchymal manifestations have been described following sclerotherapy of GOV, to our knowledge no solitary suspicious pulmonary nodule has been described.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report the case of 55-year-old man with heavy smoking history who was referred to our pulmonary clinic for work-up of a solitary pulmonary nodule. He was known to have liver cirrhosis with history of massive UGB due to rupture of GOV two months before. He was treated with sclerotherapy by injecting a 3 cc of Histoacryl/lipiodole solution. The post- endoscopic phase was unremarkable. An enhanced CT scan of chest and abdomen performed two months later showed a right upper lobe nodule, even though at that point, the patient was completely asymptomatic. This was ascribed to non-thrombotic PE secondary to sclerotherapy due to complete resolution of the nodule on a CT scan carried out at 2-month follow-up. At that point, his condition did not require any further treatment.

CONCLUSION

Solitary pulmonary nodule is one of the radiologic manifestations of PE subsequent to sclerotherapy of GOV. Awareness and radiologic follow-up of this unusual radiologic presentation may prevent unnecessary biopsies.

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.

Combination therapy of dual sclerosants with glue embolization of calcitrant pancreatico-cutaneous fistula

We present a case of 70-year-old male who had a very difficult to treat pancreatico-cutaneous fistula following surgery which we treated with combination of silver nitrate, betadine iodine and glue. Silver nitrate and betadine acted in combination to prevent infection while also causing sclerosis of the cavity and the fistula along with the glue.

Polidocanol sclerotherapy for the treatment of aneurysmal bone cyst, with or without pathological fractures: A prospective, comparative study

Introduction

Polidocanol sclerotherapy in the treatment of aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) with or without pathological fractures has been a topic of debate. While some studies recommend intralesional curettage as the preferred treatment, others suggest intralesional sclerosants as an effective alternative.

Material and methods

This study evaluates the use of polidocanol-based percutaneous sclerosant therapy in 28 patients with ABCs, of which 8 patients had pathological fracture. The patients received injections every four weeks based on clinical and radiological evaluation of the cyst, and the study assessed the results and complications of the treatment.

Results

In group A (without pathological fractures), 14 out of 17 (82.4 %) lesions healed without any significant residual lesion. Three out of 17 (17.6 %) patients required further surgical intervention and were treated by curettage and bone grafting, definitively. Minor local inflammatory reaction was observed in 3 patients, which resolved without intervention within 3-4 days. In group B, all the 8 patients (100 %) with pathological fracture in their lesions healed as Grade 1 healing, without any significant residual lesion. One patient developed an episode of anesthesia related complication (delayed recovery) which resolved within an hour, without any residual effect. At final follow up, no recurrence was seen in any patient.

Conclusion

The study concludes that polidocanol sclerotherapy is an effective treatment option for patients with ABCs, with or without pathological fractures, and has the potential to become the new treatment of choice for pathological fractures due to its low invasiveness, low morbidity, and affordability. However, further research is needed to confirm the efficacy of polidocanol sclerotherapy in larger patient populations and to compare its effectiveness with other treatment options.

Sclerotherapy in orbital lymphangioma: A case report

Orbital lymphangioma is a rare benign lymphatic and vascular malformation, which is distinguished by its abnormal endothelial ducts and can cause proptosis in the patients. Radiological imaging is essential in confirming the diagnosis. Sclerotherapy is an alternative treatment option if surgery is not an option or is too risky. This report presents a rare case of a 4-year-old girl who had complained of bulging her right eye since she was 3 years old. Because surgery can be challenging to the surrounding vital orbital structure, the patient underwent several sclerotherapy sessions which yielded good results on the patient.

Fibro-adipose vascular anomaly (FAVA) - diagnosis, staging and management

BACKGROUND

The diagnosis and treatment of fibro-adipose vascular anomaly (FAVA) of the limb remains challenging since this entity is rare and complex. This paper is aimed to describe the clinical and imaging features, staging and management of this underrecognized disease of the limb.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Patients diagnosed with FAVA and managed between September 2019 and May 2022 in department of pediatric surgery & vascular anomalies of Xi'an international medical center hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Data extracted include age at presentation, previous diagnosis, affected muscles, symptoms, previous treatment, our management, and follow-up.

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients with FAVA were diagnosed and managed in our center. There was a female sex predominance, with 23 female (72%) and 9 male (28%) in the cohort. Only one lesion was noticed during infancy; the remaining presented at age 1 to 20 years (median, 7 years). The most commonly involved muscles were gastrocnemius (14/32, 44%) and soleus (13/32, 40%). Swelling (mass), pain and contractures were the most common presentations. MRI featured a heterogeneous and ill-defined intramuscular high signal intensity. Diseases were staged according to clinical features: stage I (pain stage, n = 4), stage II (contracture stage, n = 20) and stage III (deformity stage, n = 8). Patients with stage I disease underwent radical resection and obtained a cure. Patients with stage II disease received radical resection and possible Achilles lengthening, having an outcome of cure. Personalized treatment was required in patients with stage III disease, including radical/partial/staged resection, Achilles lengthening/tenotomy, joint capsulotomy, neurolysis/neurectomy, tendon transfer, stretching exercises, and oral sirolimus/alpelisib. Significant improvement of symptoms was achieved in most.

CONCLUSION

The most distinct features of FAVA include enlarging mass, severe pain and contracture. Based on distinct clinical and radiologic features, it is not difficult to make the diagnosis of FAVA. Earlier awareness of this disease can reduce misdiagnoses. Surgery-based comprehensive management can typically improve pain and contracture. Oral sirolimus or alpelisib plays an important role in treatment of unresectable lesions and major nerve involvement. Surgery alone can be curative in early stage FAVA.

Impact of puberty on procedure frequency for treatment of simple head and neck lymphatic and venous malformations

OBJECTIVE

Puberty has been shown to accelerate growth of vascular malformations, including lymphatic (LM) and venous malformations (VM). This study aims to compare the number of procedures performed before and after puberty in patients with LM and VM to assess whether the onset of puberty results in higher treatment frequency.

METHODS

A retrospective review of head and neck LM and VM patients who were evaluated between January 2009 and December 2019 was performed. Patient demographics, lesion characteristics, and procedural details were recorded. For the purposes of this study, 11 years or older in females and 12 years or older in males were the established cut-offs for the onset of puberty.

RESULTS

After initial screening of 357 patients, 83 patients were included in the study based on inclusion criteria. There were 34 patients with LM (41 %) and 49 with VM (59 %). The mean age at diagnosis was 6.1 ± 10.9 years (LM: 4.2 ± 7.0, VM: 7.4 ± 12.9, p = 0.489). 68 patients underwent treatments, which included sclerotherapy, surgical excision, and/or laser. For all patients, the average number of lifetime treatments when initiated before puberty was 3.78 ± 2.81 and when initiated after puberty was 2.17 ± 1.37 (p = 0.022). Patients diagnosed pre-puberty were more likely to undergo treatments vs. those diagnosed after puberty (OR 10.00, 95 % CI: 2.61-38.28, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

We found that the number of treatments was fewer in those who started treatment after puberty. This finding suggests that providers may elect to proceed with observation in asymptomatic patients, given that waiting until after the onset of puberty has not shown an increase in the procedural load on patients.

Application of epinephrine mixed with local anaesthetics in injection sclerotherapy of early-stage arteriovenous malformation

PURPOSE

To explore the effect of epinephrine mixed with local anaesthetic injection on blood flow control in early stage arteriovenous malformation (AVM) and explore suitable cases.

METHODS

Twenty-five patients with early stage (Schobinger clinical stage I/II) AVM were selected between September 2019 and March 2022. Local anaesthetics containing epinephrine were injected around the nourishing artery and into lesions under the guidance of ultrasound, and the blood flow distribution grade in the lesions as well as the changes in diameter, peak systolic velocity (PSV), and resistance index (RI) of the nourishing arteries and vessels in the lesions were observed to determine the type of AVM suitable for epinephrine injection. After blood flow was controlled, sclerosant agents were injected into the lesions for sclerotherapy.

RESULTS

After local injection of the epinephrine mixture, the blood flow distribution in the lesion decreased by one to three grades; the diameter and PSV also decreased, while RI increased. There were statistically significant differences before and after the injection (P < 0.05). The efficacy of the injection was 80% (20/25), especially in patients with lesion vessels, a nourishing artery lumen diameter <2 mm, and a PSV <40 cm/s in the lesion. Patients with Schobinger clinical stage I AWM showed good results.

CONCLUSIONS

Local anaesthetics containing epinephrine play a positive role in reducing the distribution and velocity of blood flow in patients with AVM lesions and may be used as an experimental method for the treatment of AVM, which is beneficial for sclerotherapy in patients with early AVM.

Transportal scleroembolization of hepatic arterioportal fistulas in a patient with portal hypertension: A case report

We report a rare patient with portal hypertension who presented with esophageal- and gastric varices and refractory ascites due to hepatic arterioportal fistulas. Treatment by transportal scleroembolization using ethanolamine oleate and coils were successful. Pretreatment hepatofugal flow subsequently changed to hepatopetal flow and the symptoms of portal hypertension improved. We describe our endovascular treatment option for addressing hepatic arterioportal fistulas.

Health-related quality of life in children with congenital vascular malformations

A cross-sectional study was performed to evaluate health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in children with congenital vascular malformations (CVM) and to investigate factors associated with an impaired HRQOL. Children (2-17 years) with CVMs who visited the HECOVAN expertise center between 2016-2018 were included. The PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales were used and a score ≥ 1.0 SD below the normative mean was defined as an impaired HRQOL. Factors associated with impairment were investigated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. The median overall HRQOL was 84.8/100 (n = 207; 41% boys, 59% girls; self-reported IQR 73.9-92.4 and parent-reported IQR 71.4-92.4). Patients aged 13-17 years reported significantly worse physical functioning than those aged 8-12 years (median 84.4, IQR 71.1-93.8 versus median 90.6, IQR 81.3-96.9; p = 0.02). Parents reported a significantly lower overall HRQOL than their children (median 80.4, IQR 70.7-90.8 versus median 85.9, IQR 76.1-92.4; p = 0.001). HRQOL was impaired in 25% of patients. Impairment occurred significantly more often in lower extremity CVMs (38%, p = 0.01) and multifocal CVMs (47%, p = 0.01) compared to CVMs in the head/neck region (13%). Other associated factors included invasive management (31% versus 14%; p = 0.01), age at first treatment ≤ 5 years (48% versus 25%; p = 0.02) and ongoing treatment (38% versus 18%; p = 0.004). After correction for other factors, significance remained for lower extremity CVMs and ongoing invasive treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall median HRQOL was reasonable and not significantly different from the norm sample. Parental ratings were significantly lower than their children's ratings. A quarter of the patients had an impaired HRQOL, which seemed to worsen with age. Independently associated factors included a lower extremity CVM and invasive management.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Congenital vascular malformations could affect health-related quality of life (HRQOL). • Studies on pediatric patients are limited and either very small or in combination with adult patient series.

WHAT IS NEW

• This study raises awareness of an impaired HRQOL in 25% of pediatric patients with congenital vascular malformations. • Associated factors included a lower extremity CVM and invasive management.

Late side effects of bleomycin injection into the lower lip mucosa of a nine-year-old patient with venous malformation

Venous malformation (VM) is a benign lesion of blood vessels caused by an error in vascular morphogenesis during the embryologic phase. This entity mostly affects the head and neck region, including the lips, tongue, buccal mucosa, gingiva, or palate. VM may cause functional and aesthetic impairments. The anatomical structure and shape of the lips provide an important aesthetic accent for an individual. Therefore, management of VM in the lip area without postoperative defects or scarring is challenging. In this brief communication article, we present a conservative approach to lip VM in a nine-year-old boy using a bleomycin injection that had good aesthetic and functional outcomes. Injection of 2 mL of 1/10 of 15 mg bleomycin in a saline dilution into the lip mucosa may present a drug reaction as a white plaque and reddish owl eye lesion that takes up to three weeks to resolve without a scar. It is important to recognize the characteristics and self-limiting nature of postoperative bleomycin complications to avoid unnecessary treatment.

Effect of catheter-directed ethanol sclerotherapy on ovarian reserve in patients with recurrent endometrioma: comparative analysis with primary endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

Catheter-directed ethanol sclerotherapy (CDS) is known to less affect the ovarian function, with comparable efficacy. This study aims to investigate the change in ovarian reserve after catheter-directed ethanol sclerotherapy in patients with recurrent endometrioma, as compared to primary endometrioma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective, observational study. Electronic medical records and images of patients with endometrioma who underwent CDS from August 2014 to April 2022 at a single institution were obtained. Patients aged > 18 years old and with anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) level between 0.8 and 10.0 with regular menstruation were enrolled. Cyst diameter, laterality, AMH level, and CA-125 level before and after 1 month, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years of sclerotherapy were obtained.

RESULTS

A total of 180 patients were fit for analysis. There was no statistical difference in age and cyst size between the two groups. Mean values of AMH in each group were 3.35 in the primary group and 3.00 in the recurrent group prior to the procedure (p = 0.347). There was no significant difference in delta value of AMH after sclerotherapy in both groups at each follow-up period. Also, this result was consistent when stratified by laterality, preprocedural AMH level, and initial size of endometrioma. No case of recurrence was reported in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The effect of CDS on ovarian reserve is not inferior in recurrent endometrioma compared to primary endometrioma. Since sclerotherapy is known to less deteriorate the ovarian function than surgical removal of endometrioma, clinician could consider this as the first-line therapy in patients with recurrent endometrioma.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

Catheter-directed ethanol sclerotherapy for patients with recurrent endometrioma has similar effect on ovarian reserve compared to patients with primary endometrioma.

KEY POINTS

• Secondary surgery for endometrioma has significant deleterious effect on ovarian function. • Catheter-directed sclerotherapy (CDS) for endometrioma had equally minimal adverse effect on ovarian reserve, represented as anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), in both primary and recurrent groups. • Physicians should consider CDS for patients with recurrent endometrioma who desire to preserve ovarian function.

Interventions For the Treatment of Lower Limb Telangiectasias and Reticular Veins: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To assess the safety and efficacy of available interventions in the treatment of lower limb reticular veins and telangiectasias.

DATA SOURCES

An electronic search was performed on Scopus, Embase, and Google scholar.

REVIEW METHODS

A systematic review was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Following data extraction and processing, a Bayesian network meta-analysis and meta-regression was undertaken. The primary endpoint was telangiectasia and reticular vein clearance.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies, 16 randomised controlled trials and three prospective case series, including 1 356 patients and 2 051 procedures, were finally incorporated. All interventions, apart from 0.5% sodium tetradecyl sulphate (STS) and 0.25% STS displayed statistically significantly superior telangiectasia and reticular vein clearance compared with normal saline (N/S), Meta-regression analysis employing the type of the venule treated (telangiectasia or reticular vein) as a covariable, revealed a positive correlation between Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser and telangiectasia clearance (β = 1.38, 95% CI 0.56 - 2.14). Further exploration unveiled the superiority of Nd:YAG 1064 nm in the treatment of telangiectasias compared with all included interventions except 72% chromated glycerin (CG). STS 0.25% increased the risk of hyperpigmentation compared with all interventions except 0.5% STS, and 1% polidocanol. CG 72% decreased the risk of matting compared with polidocanol foam (risk ratio [RR] 0.14, 95% CI 0.02 - 0.80) and STS (RR 0.31, 95% CI 0.07 - 0.92). Non-statistically significant differences were identified between interventions regarding pain outcomes.

CONCLUSION

This network meta-analysis has demonstrated a proportional relationship between sclerosant potency and side effect occurrence in the treatment of telangiectasias and reticular veins and the superiority of laser therapy compared with injection sclerotherapy in treating telangiectasias. The transition of telangiectasia and reticular vein treatment from highly potent detergent solutions to equally effective but milder sclerosants could potentially reduce undesirable adverse events.

A technical review of percutaneous sclerotherapy with bleomycin for giant hepatic venous malformation

BACKGROUND

Hepatic venous malformation (HVM), traditionally called liver haemangioma, is considered the most common benign hepatic lesion. Treatment might be indicated in large and symptomatic HVMs. We aim to describe stepwise technical aspects of trans-hepatic percutaneous sclerotherapy of hepatic venous malformation (HVM).

MAIN TEXT

Patients with symptomatic HVM larger than 5 cm are selected after discussion in hepatobiliary multidisciplinary team. After prophylactic antibiotic and corticosteroid administration, local anaesthesia and conscious sedation are applied. A 22-gauge spinal or Chiba needle is used to obtain percutaneous access to the HVM through normal liver parenchyma under ultrasound guidance. To ensure proper needle placement and to prevent accidental delivery of sclerosant into unintended areas, about 5-10 mL iodine contrast is injected under fluoroscopy. Then, 45-60 IU bleomycin is mixed with 10 mL distilled water and 10 mL lipiodol and is slowly injected under fluoroscopy over a period of 20-30 s. After the needle is removed, manual pressure is applied over the puncture site for a period of 5 min followed by placement of a sandbag. Patients are monitored for 6-8 h post-procedure.

CONCLUSION

In this technical review, we described our institutional technique of percutaneous sclerotherapy, which could be regarded as an alternative to TAE in the management of HVM.

Sclerotherapy as a primary or salvage procedure for aneurysmal bone cysts: A single-center experience

BACKGROUND

Aneurysmal bone cysts (ABC) are benign cystic bone tumors of an osteolytic and locally aggressive nature. As an alternative to the primary treatment of choice, which consists of curettage with bone grafting, alternative treatment methods with promising results have been described. At our department, we have, in recent years, used percutaneous sclerotherapy with polidocanol. The objective of this study was to identify the healing rate and safety of sclerotherapy with polidocanol.

AIM

To identify the efficacy and safety of sclerotherapy with polidocanol in primary and recurrent ABC.

METHODS

Twenty-two consecutive patients (median age 12.5 years; range 1-27) with 23 ABCs treated with sclerotherapy with polidocanol from 2016-2021 were included retrospectively. Eleven patients (48%) had undergone different forms of previous treatment with recurrence. Under general anesthesia and fluoroscopic guidance, repeated percutaneous injections of 4mg polidocanol/kg body weight were performed. Through review of the electronic medical records, the following were identified: healing and recurrence rate, number of treatments, gender, age, comorbidity, location of the tumor and side effects / complications, as well as any previous surgery for ABC. The median length of radiographic follow-up was 19.5 mo.

RESULTS

All ABCs except one (96%) showed healing or stable disease after a median of 4 (range 1-8) injections. Complete clinical and radiographic healing was observed in 16 cysts (70%), while partial radiographic healing with resolution of pain was seen in 6 cases (26%) and considered as stable disease. The cyst that failed to heal had previously undergone curettage twice with recurrence. One patient with a large pelvic ABC experienced, right after two injections, a sudden drop in blood pressure, which could quickly be reversed. One patient with a juxtaphyseal ABC in the femoral neck showed a minor limb length discrepancy because of deformity. Beyond that, no complications were observed.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous sclerotherapy with polidocanol appears to be a safe alternative for treatment of aneurysmal bone cysts. In our series of both primary and recurrent cysts, it showed the ability to achieve healing or stable disease in 22 of 23 cases (96%). Further studies are needed to decide if this provides a long-lasting effect.

Gastrointestinal involvement in Klippel-Trénaunay syndrome: pathophysiology, evaluation, and management

Klippel-Trénaunay syndrome is typically a complex combined capillary-lymphatic-venous malformation in lower limb. Gastrointestinal involvement is not infrequent in Klippel-Trénaunay syndrome. Rectal bleeding is the most common complication. In recent years, this condition has been increasingly reported. However, most authors simply described extreme manifestations or various combinations of clinical observations. The underlying pathophysiology of gastrointestinal involvement in Klippel-Trénaunay syndrome has been underrecognized. Pathophysiologically, some seemingly adequate managements are pitfalls in treatment. Anorectosigmoid vascular malformations in KTS have distinct and more complicated pathophysiologies than anorectal vascular malformation. Once understanding the pathophysiology, some patients can be successfully managed with a staged plan in our practice. Therefore, recognizing the pathophysiologies of gastrointestinal involvement is needed to evaluate, prevent pitfalls, and determine adequate managements for practitioners. Because of the complexity and rarity of this condition, prospective controlled study or a large cohort of patients is impossible. Based on literature review and our practice, we discuss pathophysiologies, evaluation, pitfalls, and treatment strategies for gastrointestinal involvement in Klippel-Trénaunay syndrome.

Hemangioma - A Rare Cause of Laryngeal Growth in an Adult and its Management with Sclerotherapy and Laser Surgery: A Case Report

Hemangiomas are benign tumors of vascular origin commonly affecting head and neck region. Laryngeal Hemangiomas are however rare and have no well-defined management protocols. We present an interesting case of a 42-year-old adult who was diagnosed as a case of Laryngeal Hemangioma based on clinical and radiological findings and was managed with local injection of sclerosing agent followed by CO2 Laser fulguration. The patient had a satisfactory outcome and remains asymptomatic.

Rapid lymphatic malformation expansion: Imaging, association with asymptomatic Streptococcus infection, multidisciplinary management, and therapeutic approach

Lymphatic malformations are congenital anomalies of the lymphatic system that can occur anywhere in the body and typically present in early childhood. They are often painless, slow-growing, and asymptomatic, but may lead to a wide range of symptoms depending on their size and location. Rarely, congenital malformations may not be diagnosed until later in childhood or adolescence, despite being present from birth. In some individuals, lymphatic malformations can expand quickly, especially in the setting of an inflammatory process. We present the case of an 8-year-old boy who had a rapidly enlarging, nonpainful mass on his right neck and a positive streptococcus throat swab. After evaluation by multiple specialists and imaging studies, he was diagnosed with a multilocular, multicystic lymphatic malformation. He was treated with fluoroscopy-guided doxycycline sclerotherapy, and has had near total resolution of neck swelling. This case report is significant because it highlights the potential benefits of a multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and management of lymphatic malformations. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of considering congenital malformations in the differential diagnosis of neck masses, even in older children. Finally, it also adds to the growing body of evidence that hypothesizes that strep throat infections may trigger the sudden expansion of previously asymptomatic congenital lymphatic malformations.

[Management of endometriomas in France: A survey of practices]

OBJECTIVES

To present an overview of French practices for the management of endometriomas.

METHODS

We carried out a nationwide survey of practices concerning the management of endometriomas between October 2021 and January 2022. This study was carried out by means of two questionnaires sent to surgical centers used to treat endometriosis (n=62) and to Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) centers (n=102).

RESULTS

At the end of the survey, 39/62 (62.9%) surgical teams from the centers contacted had given a response and 51/102 (50.0%) from ART centers. Laparoscopic cystectomy was the technique most frequently used by almost two thirds of the surgical teams (61%) when there was no known infertility, whereas it was the most common technique for only 14% of the ART teams. On the contrary, ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy was the most frequent technique for more than half of the ART teams (56%) and for only 8% of the surgical teams. In case of recurrence, 49% of surgical teams would choose ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy. Prior to IVF, 73% of ARP teams stated that they 'rarely' treated endometriomas.

CONCLUSION

The results of our study show a certain variability in practices between different centers and depending on the presence or absence of infertility for the management of endometriomas in France.

Percutaneous ethanolamine oleate sclerotherapy for aggressive vertebral hemangioma: A case report

Vertebral hemangiomas are the most common benign lesion of the spine which are often an asymptomatic incidental finding. However, a few hemangiomas are aggressive and characterized by bone expansion and extraosseous extension into the paraspinal and epidural spaces. We report the case of a patient presenting an aggressive vertebral hemangioma causing back pain and bilateral numbness of the legs. Among various treatment modalities, a minimally invasive percutaneous sclerotherapy procedure using ethanolamine oleate under computed tomography and fluoroscopic guidance was safely and successfully performed with good clinical outcomes.

Surgical management of symptomatic vertebral hemangiomas: a single institution experience and literature review

Vertebral hemangiomas (VHs), formed from a vascular proliferation in bone marrow spaces limited by bone trabeculae, are the most common benign tumors of the spine. While most VHs remain clinically quiescent and often only require surveillance, rarely they may cause symptoms. They may exhibit active behaviors, including rapid proliferation, extending beyond the vertebral body, and invading the paravertebral and/or epidural space with possible compression of the spinal cord and/or nerve roots ("aggressive" VHs). An extensive list of treatment modalities is currently available, but the role of techniques such as embolization, radiotherapy, and vertebroplasty as adjuvants to surgery has not yet been elucidated. There exists a need to succinctly summarize the treatments and associated outcomes to guide VH treatment plans. In this review article, a single institution's experience in the management of symptomatic VHs is summarized along with a review of the available literature on their clinical presentation and management options, followed by a proposal of a management algorithm.

Sonographic changes in the thyroid gland after sclerotherapy with doxycycline can be mistaken for thyroid cancer

BACKGROUND

The literature considers sclerotherapy to be a safe and effective treatment for benign thyroid cysts. No subsequent diagnostic problems have been reported as a complication. We report the occurrence of focal inflammation after said therapy, mimicking a thyroid malignancy.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a case of a young male with a solitary strongly suspicious lesion in the thyroid. The patient had undergone prior sclerotherapy of a thyroid cyst with Doxycycline. The lesion appeared to be a focal area of inflammation and thus iatrogenic in nature. Systemic use of doxycycline is known to sometimes cause a non-immune chemical thyroiditis, dubbed as black thyroid due to the intense black discoloration of the thyroid. It might be that the instillation of doxycycline was responsible for a similar, more localized area of thyroiditis.

CONCLUSIONS

For the work-up of a solitary suspicious thyroid lesion, the medical history of the patient should always be considered. In case of prior ipsilateral sclerotherapy, a reactive inflammatory response may mimic thyroid malignancy. A fine needle aspiration should be performed to exclude thyroid cancer. Treatment is not necessary; the process appears to be self-limiting as evidenced in the follow-up of this case.

Recurrence of symptoms may indicate the presence of a Morel-Lavallée lesion of the knee: A case report and literature review

Case

An 81 year old male with four failed aspirations presented with recurrent knee swelling following irrigation and debridement, which suggested the presence of a Morel-Lavallée lesion (MLL). This diagnosis was intraoperatively confirmed by separation of the tissue layers forming a space with accumulated fluid. Treatment consisted of doxycycline sclerodesis and tight closure of the tissue layers. The patient had a satisfactory outcome at 4 months.

Conclusion

Resolution of Morel-Lavallée lesions requires prompt recognition and appropriate treatment. In the presence of a different diagnosis, recurrence of symptoms following treatment may indicate an MLL. Surgical treatment with doxycycline sclerodesis resulted in resolution of symptoms.

The efficacy of bleomycin sclerotherapy in the treatment of lymphatic malformations: a review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

At present, bleomycin has been widely used in the treatment of Lymphatic Malformations (LMs). This study aims to perform a meta-analysis to investigate the effectiveness and influencing factors of bleomycin in the treatment of LMs.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to clarify the relationship between bleomycin and LMs. PubMed, ISI Web of Science and MEDLINE were searched.

RESULTS

A total of 21 studies (including 428 cases) about bleomycin sclerotherapy for LMs were included in the current meta-analyses. We calculated pooled effective rate and 95% Confidence Interval (95% CI) using random effects model to evaluate the relations between bleomycin and LMs. The results suggested that the effective rate of bleomycin was the combined effective rate was 84.0% (95% CI 0.81‒0.87) and ranged from 39% (95% CI 0.22‒0.56) to 94% (95% CI 0.87-1.02). The heterogeneity among the studies was substantial (I2=61.7%, p= 0.000). In subgroup analyses, it was observed that among retrospective study and prospective study, the estimated effective rate was 80.0% (95% CI 0.76‒0.84) and 91.0% (95% CI 0.85‒0.97), respectively. In terms of the dosage, the combined effective rates of weight-based group and fixed-dose group were 86% (95% CI 0.83‒0.90) and 74.0% (95% CI 0.66‒0.82), respectively. There was no significant publication bias in Egger's test (p=0.059, 95% CI -3.81 to 0.082), but Begg's test did (p=0.023), and the funnel plot is asymmetric.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggested that bleomycin was safe and effective in the treatment of LMs and was primarily dose dependent.

Contemporary management of extracranial vascular malformations

Vascular malformations are congenital vascular anomalies that originate because of disorganized angiogenesis, most commonly from spontaneous somatic genetic mutations. The modern management of vascular malformations requires a multidisciplinary team that offers patients the gamut of medical, surgical, and percutaneous treatment options with supportive care. This manuscript discusses the standard and contemporary management strategies surrounding extracranial vascular malformations and overgrowth syndromes.

VIEW-VLU observational study of the effect of Varithena on wound healing in the treatment of venous leg ulcers

OBJECTIVE

Chronic venous hypertension, triggered by venous reflux and/or obstruction, leads to skin changes and venous leg ulcers (VLUs). Compression therapy is the standard of care, but many wounds remain unhealed. The objectives of this study were to observe the effects of endovenous chemical ablation with commercially available 1% polidocanol injectable microfoam on VLU healing and recurrence rates.

METHODS

The VIEW VLU study was a multicenter, open-label, phase IV registry of patients with active VLUs resulting from venous insufficiency of the great saphenous vein and/or anterior accessory saphenous vein systems who underwent ablation with 1% polidocanol microfoam. Primary outcomes included wound healing rate (change in wound perimeter), wound closure at 12 weeks after treatment, and time to wound closure. Secondary outcomes included VLU recurrence, numeric pain score at the ulcer location, EuroQol five-dimension five-level questionnaire quality-of-life index, and the Venous Clinical Severity Score. Patients were followed for 12 months.

RESULTS

We enrolled 76 patients (80 ulcers) from 14 sites across the United States and Canada (mean age 63.6 ± 13.7 years, 39.5% female, mean body mass index 36.3). Of the enrollees, 96.3% presented with great saphenous vein incompetence. The mean baseline wound perimeter was 117.2 ± 107.4 mm and 26.3% of wounds (21/80) were circumferential. The mean ulcer age was 34.8 ± 51.8 weeks at first presentation and the mean compression therapy duration was 26.4 ± 35.9 weeks. The median wound perimeter decreased by 16.3% from baseline in the first 2 weeks after the procedure and by 27.0% at 12 weeks. By 12 weeks, 53.8% of wounds (43/80) were healed. The median time to ulcer closure by Kaplan-Meier analysis was 89 days (95% confidence interval, 62.0-117.0). In a Kaplan-Meier analysis of initially healed wounds, 88.9% (95% confidence interval, 76.9-94.8) remained closed at 12 weeks after closure. The mean numeric pain scores (ulcer site) improved by 41.0% and 64.1% at 12 weeks and 12 months after the procedure, respectively. The health-related quality-of-life index (scale of 0-1) improved from 0.65 ± 0.27 at baseline to 0.72 ± 0.28 at 12 weeks and 0.73 ± 0.30 at 12 months. By 12 weeks after treatment, the mean target leg Venous Clinical Severity Score had significantly decreased by 5.8 points, and by 12 months it had decreased by 10.0 points.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with 1% polidocanol microfoam was associated with promising wound healing rates and low recurrence rates for VLUs, despite a challenging patient population with recalcitrant ulcers, a large percentage of which were circumferential, in patients with high body mass indexes.

Efficacy of OK-432 sclerotherapy for different types of lymphangiomas: a review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to perform a meta-analysis to figure out the efficacy of OK-432 sclerotherapy between Macrocystic (MAC) lymphangiomas and Microcystic (MIC) lymphangiomas.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to clarify the relationship between OK-432 and lymphangiomas. PubMed and ISI Web of Science were searched from inception to May 2022. Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) manual was used to evaluate the risk of bias. We calculated pooled Relative Risks (RR) and 95% Confidence Interval (95% CI) using random effects model to evaluate the relations between OK-432 and lymphangiomas.

RESULTS

A total of 11 studies (including 352 cases) about OK-432 sclerotherapy for lymphangioma were included in the current meta-analyses. The results suggested that the efficacy of OK-432 was significantly in MAC lesions than in MIC (RR=1.51, 95% CI 1.298-1.764), with significant moderate degrees of heterogeneity among 11 studies (I2=51.2%, p=0.025). Subgroup analyses suggested that there was significant association in both retrospective studies (RR=1.26, 95% CI 1.03-1.53) and classification (by 1 cm) (RR=1.37, 95% CI 1.04-1.80) were associated with the efficacy of OK-432.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, our study represents the first meta-analysis examining the efficacy of OK-432 in the treatment of different types of LMs. However, the regional differences and the age differences of the subjects are the main limitations of this study and should be avoided in further research. Our results suggested that OK-432 sclerotherapy for macrocystic lymphangiomas was more effective.

Quantitative analysis validation for sclerotherapy treatment of lower limb telangiectasias

BACKGROUND

The evaluation of sclerotherapy efficacy for lower limb telangiectasias, which is the standard treatment for such condition, is commonly assisted by scores based on before and after pictures. This method is marked by its subjectivity, which impairs the precision of studies on the subject, making it unfeasible to evaluate and compare different interventions. We hypothesize that a quantitative method for evaluating the effectiveness of sclerotherapy for lower limb telangiectasias may present more reproducible results. Reliable measurement methods and new technologies may become part of the clinical practice in the near future.

METHODS

Before and after treatment photographs were analyzed using a quantitative method and compared with a validated qualitative method based on improvement scores. Reliability analysis of the methods was performed, applying the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and kappa coefficient with quadratic weights (Fleiss Cohen), for analysis of inter-examiner and intra-examiner agreement in both evaluation methods. Convergent validity was evaluated by applying the Spearman test. To assess the applicability of the quantitative scale, the Mann-Whitney test was used.

RESULTS

A better agreement between examiners is shown for the quantitative scale, with a mean kappa of .3986 (.251-.511) for qualitative analysis and a mean kappa of .788 (.655-.918) for quantitative analysis (P < .001 for all examiners). Convergent validity was achieved by correlation coefficients of .572 to .905 (P < .001). The quantitative scale results obtained between the specialists with different degrees of experience did not show statistical difference (seniors: 0.71 [-0.48/1.00] × juniors: 0.73 [-0.34/1.00]; P = .221).

CONCLUSIONS

Convergent validity between both analyses has been achieved, but quantitative analysis has been shown to be more reliable and can be applied by professionals of any degree of experience. The validation of quantitative analysis is a major milestone for the development of new technology and automated, reliable, applications.

Management of a giant lymphocele following varicose vein surgery: a case report

BACKGROUND

A lymphocele or lymphocyst is formed when lymphatic fluid accumulates in a space, following disruption of lymphatic channels. Here, we report a case of a giant lymphocele in a middle-aged female, who underwent Trendelenburg operation (saphenofemoral junction ligation) for varicose veins of her right lower limb.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 48-year-old Pakistani Punjabi female presented to the plastic surgery outpatient department with a history of painful, progressive swelling of the right groin and medial aspect of the right thigh for 4 months. After investigation, it was diagnosed as a giant lymphocele. A pedicled gracilis muscle flap was used to reconstruct and obliterate the cavity. There was no recurrence of the swelling.

CONCLUSION

Lymphocele is a common complication after extensive vascular surgeries. In the unfortunate case of its development, prompt intervention must be done to prevent its growth and ensuing complications.

Aspiration and sclerotherapy versus hydrocelectomy for treating hydroceles: a systematic review and meta-analyses

BACKGROUND

In this meta-analysis, we aimed to compare the hydrocelectomy versus aspiration and sclerotherapy for treating primary hydrocele.

METHODS

We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs that compared aspiration and sclerotherapy with any type of sclerosants versus hydrocelectomy for primary hydrocele. Studies were identified via a systematic search of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Citation tracking of related articles was performed. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two authors. The primary and secondary outcome measures were compared and analyzed using the Review Manager 5.3.5 software.

RESULTS

Five small RCTs were included in the present study. These 5 RCTs included 335 patients with 342 hydroceles, randomized to aspiration and sclerotherapy (185 patients; 189 hydroceles) and surgery (150 patients; 153 hydroceles). There was no significant difference in clinical cure between sclerotherapy and hydrocelectomy (RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.18 to 1.10). Meta-analysis revealed a significant increase in recurrence in the sclerotherapy group compared with the surgical group (RR 9.43, 95% CI 1.82 to 48.77). There were no significant differences between the two groups in assessing fever, infection, and hematoma.

CONCLUSION

Aspiration and sclerotherapy is an efficient technique with a higher recurrent rate; therefore, we recommend aspiration and sclerotherapy for patients at high risk for surgery or avoiding surgery. In addition, included RCTs had low methodological quality, low sample size, and invalidated instruments for outcome assessment. Therefore, there is a great need for further methodologically rigorous RCTs with the registered protocol.

Treatment of haemorrhoids: rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy (THROS)? Study protocol for a multicentre, non-inferiority, randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Haemorrhoidal disease (HD) is a common condition with significant epidemiologic and economic implications. While it is possible to treat symptomatic grade 1-2 haemorrhoids with rubber band ligation (RBL) or sclerotherapy (SCL), the effectiveness of these treatments compatible with current standards has not yet been investigated with a randomised controlled trial. The hypothesis is that SCL is not inferior to RBL in terms of symptom reduction (patient-related outcome measures (PROMs)), patient experience, complications or recurrence rate.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This protocol describes the methodology of a non-inferiority, multicentre, randomised controlled trial comparing rubber band ligation and sclerotherapy for symptomatic grade 1-2 haemorrhoids in adults (> 18 years). Patients are preferably randomised between the two treatment arms. However, patients with a strong preference for one of the treatments and refuse randomisation are eligible for the registration arm. Patients either receive 4 cc Aethoxysklerol 3% SCL or 3 × RBL. The primary outcome measures are symptom reduction by means of PROMs, recurrence and complication rates. Secondary outcome measures are patient experience, number of treatments and days of sick leave from work. Data are collected at 4 different time points.

DISCUSSION

The THROS trial is the first large multicentre randomised trial to study the difference in effectivity between RBL and SCL for the treatment of grade 1-2 HD. It will provide information as to which treatment method (RBL or SCL) is the most effective, gives fewer complications and is experienced by the patient as the best option.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study protocol has been approved by the Medical Ethics Review Committee of the Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC (nr. 2020_053). The gathered data and results will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals and spread to coloproctological associations and guidelines.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Dutch Trial Register NL8377 . Registered on 12-02-2020.

Combined Management of Wound Ulcers With Focus on Interventional Techniques

This review provides a summary of current practice patterns in managing venous ulcers. The authors will describe the workup for venous ulcers, including differentiation of symptoms, physical examination, and imaging to guide the most effective treatment course for each patient. An overview of conservative management and minimally invasive treatment options for venous ulcers will be provided with a specific focus on periulcer foam sclerotherapy to aid in preventing ulcer recurrence and promoting healing. We will give interventional troubleshooting techniques for challenging patient presentations.

Percutaneous aspiration and absolute ethanol sclerotherapy in the treatment of symptomatic bronchogenic cyst

Surgical treatment is indicated for both symptomatic and asymptomatic bronchogenic cysts. The goal of treatment is total removal of the cyst. Percutaneous aspiration and absolute ethanol sclerotherapy is an effective, minimally invasive, and safe alternative method. We present the case of a 74-year-old woman with a symptom of persistent dry cough for 5 months. Plain and contrast-enhanced chest computed tomography revealed a large superior mediastinal cyst that could be easily accessed percutaneously. The cyst was treated by aspiration and ethanol sclerotherapy under ultrasound guidance and fluoroscopy. The patient was discharged a day later without complications. Chest CT at 6 months follow-up showed complete regression of the cyst.

The rare complication of vascular malformations of the limb after sclerotherapy: a report of 3 cases and brief literature review

BACKGROUND

Vascular malformations are common but complicated types of disease in infants, with unclear causes and lack of effective prevention. The symptoms usually do not disappear and tend to progress without medical intervention. It is extremely necessary to choose correct treatment options for different types of vascular malformations. A large number of studies have confirmed that sclerotherapy has a tendency to become the first-line treatment in near future, but it is also associated with mild or severe complications. Furthermore, to our knowledge, the serious adverse event of progressive limb necrosis has not been systematically analyzed and reported in the literature.

CASE PRESENTATION

Three cases (two females and one male) were presented who were all diagnosed as vascular malformations and were treated by several sessions of interventional sclerotherapy. Their previous medical records showed the use of several sclerosants in different sessions including Polidocanol and Bleomycin. The sign of limb necrosis did not occur during the first sclerotherapy, but after the second and third sessions. Furthermore, the short-term symptomatic treatment could improve the necrosis syndrome, but could not change the outcome of amputation.

CONCLUSION

Sclerotherapy undoubtedly tends to be the first-line treatment in near future, but the adverse reactions still remain major challenges. Awareness of progressive limb necrosis after sclerotherapy and timely management by experts in centers of experience of this complication can avoid amputation.

Diode laser versus sclerotherapy: bloodless approaches in the treatment of oral pyogenic granuloma (randomised controlled clinical trial)

Oral pyogenic granuloma (PG) is traditionally treated by surgical excision which is associated with bleeding, pain and a high rate of recurrence. Our research aimed to clinically assess the effectiveness of diode laser versus sclerotherapy, as bloodless approach, in the treatment of oral PG. We randomly divided 20 patients with oral PG into two groups, with those in the test group being managed via diode laser application and those in the control group via injections of ethanolamine oleate as a sclerosing agent. All patients were evaluated intraoperatively for bleeding severity and postoperatively for pain. The quality of healing was also assessed using Landry healing index after the 1st, 2nd and 4th weeks. Additionally, the patients were recalled after 3, 6 and 9 months from the end of treatment for recurrence evaluation. Our results revealed that intraoperative bleeding did not differ significantly between both groups while postoperative pain decreased significantly in the sclerotherapy group compared to the laser group. For different intervals, the sclerotherapy group had a higher healing quality index than the laser group, although the difference was not statistically significant. However, recurrence occurred in the laser group, there were no cases of recurrence in the sclerotherapy group in all intervals. In conclusion, diode laser treatment of PG is a reliable, less invasive, and sensitive procedure that requires an experienced operator and specialised equipment. However, ethanolamine oleate sclerotherapy is an inexpensive, simple technique besides being less prone to recurrence problems, especially when treatment duration is not a concern.