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Lower Extremity Ultrasound: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications
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challenging to study. The Doppler survey is undertaken in a segmental routine with focused attention to any flow deviations within tributaries or from perforating veins. Methods to provoke valve closure include use of a RCI device or Parana maneuvers. Frequently an intersaphen­ous vein courses obliquely and may be a source of reflux. The SSV thigh extension or the vein of Giacomini is included in the investigation.
A posterolateral thigh venous system encountered may represent a remnant of the embryonic lateral marginal vein, the sciatic vein. A precise detail describing the drainage of this vascular malformation is imperative. Investigation of the saphenous vein may lead to discovery of alternative sources of reflux, including pelvic veins. These venous networks are complex and can fre­quently cross over from the contralateral pelvic area. Patients who are suspected of pelvic reflux or pelvic venous disease may require further investigation with complementary imaging.
In the evaluation of patients who present following procedural intervention, the operative and technical notes are useful prior to an ultrasound assessment. Patients examined under these circumstances may require an examination outside of the standardized protocol as described above. Frequently the venous remnants encoun­tered require problem solving.
• Examination of perforating veins
During an investigation of the lower extremity venous system, perforating veins are frequently encountered. These veins accommodate both drainage and direct flow between the superficial and deep compartments, and are either competent or incompetent.
Diagnostic criteria relying solely on diameter measure­ments of perforating veins are unreliable and, in the Author’s opinion, should be abandoned. Consider a sim­plistic review of the pathophysiology (in earlier text described as hierarchy of drainage) of venous structures: Most normal venous flow drains from the skin to superfi­cial layers to deeper layers, in spider veins, to reticular veins, to larger tributaries, to the GSV/SSV, or to a vein that indeed ‘perforates’ the superficial fascia to the deep fascia and drains blood into the deep system. Perforating veins are a normal part of the venous system and are critical to venous drainage. As the diameter of the perfo­rating vein increases, the relative size suggests there may be a flow abnormality. The size of the perforating vein is a measurement, not a diagnosis.
Due to complexity of Doppler and drainage angles, perforating veins can be difficult to examine with duplex ultrasound. With the patient standing, begin with a Doppler survey in a manner that is amenable to correctly observing flow both in and out of the perforating vein; flow should drain from the superficial to the deep veins. Visu­alize and steer the color flow box based on the concept of systolic flow (muscular or forward contraction) whereby flow should not observed moving outward from the deep
veins. Diastolic flow (muscular relaxation) will demon­strate flow inward toward the deep veins through func­tioning perforating vein. Movement of blood from the superficial veins (diastolic flow) occurs through the perfo­rators during muscular relaxation. This is a normal func­tioning perforating vein.
Previous published standards describing perforator dimensions at the fascial margin greater than 3–4 mm as an abnormal perforating vein may be confusing. Anatomi­cally, we look at an increased relative size of a vein and suspect the finding may be abnormal. However, this is only half of the information. Flow dynamics through per­forating veins is the most important detail.
Retrograde flow in abnormal perforating veins, accord­ing to Labropolous, is 0.35 seconds (Labropolous et al
2003). In the hands of an inexperienced operator, this
may easily be over-estimated. Motion artifact from the corresponding artery or movement of the transducer can overvalue flow patterns on spectral display. Flow in an abnormal perforating vein is bidirectional. However, there is no consensus reached for pathologic significance of bidi­rectional flow within a perforating vein. The investigation of perforating veins should substantiate absolute abnormal flow outwards from the deep veins towards the skin, with critical analysis of the findings. Obstruction of the deep veins will influence the findings of flow within perforating veins, thus the details of the deep venous examination will contribute to overall accurate results.
Remember, dilatation is only a measurement; it is the ‘why’ that is most important. Dilated perforators are indicative of volume. Identify why there is increased volume. Many perforating veins are ‘re-entry perforators’. This term is used to describe the site where the abnormal column of blood (for example, a large bulging tributary vein) re-enters the venous drainage network. The relative size is important. Equally important, then, is the diagnos­tic answer of why the perforator vein has enlarged. In summary:
(1) Document flow direction through the perforating
vein as flow measured in systole or diastole.
(2) Diameter is an adjunctive measurement
consideration if the perforating vein has substantial bidirectional flow.
(3) Study perforating veins to confirm direction of flow
from the superficial and deep compartment, and determine if the perforating vein is the drainage of a refluxing column of blood or incompetent outward flow.
If one is performing an examination for treatment plan­ning, the individual gathering information must recognize what types of veins are amenable to treatment and any contra-indications for treatment. Thermal ablation of the saphenous vein involves placing a catheter or fiber within the vessel at the point of access (typically the knee area or calf) and passing it proximally to below the junction of the deep vein. With this in mind, take note of any tortu-
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Treatment of Leg Veins
ous or valve sinus segments that may prevent or impede passage of wires or endovenous thermal devices. Skin burns during thermal ablation have been described (in early reports of thermal devices), thus saphenous to skin distances less than 1 cm should be noted. Anatomic prox­imity of arterial structures may potentially be of risk with complication of formation of arteriovenous fistula and should be noted. A venous duplex examination typically includes a sketched diagram (mapping) portraying the location of any valvular incompetence (reflux) and venous flow properties between the deep, saphenous and super­ficial compartments. A report of the findings should include such information as to the precise location, length and source of reflux in the saphenous veins, relative diam­eter measurements along the course of the saphenous veins, and other relevant veins that possess reflux or retrograde drainage. Additionally, information regarding hypoplastic, atretic, or absent veins is included. The detailed diagram are developed and descriptive report is undertaken with the goal of therapy to take place.
THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS
• Endovenous saphenous thermal ablation
The role of ultrasound for endovenous thermal ablation begins with a preoperative ‘mapping’ of the segment of the saphenous vein to be ablated. Visualization with ultra­sound will assist in determining the intended treatment area and access site. Consideration for the site insertion
should include ergonomics and suitable vein diameter, as both are important for successful vein cannulation. Because the thermal device is activated by the operator a site well below the knee for venous entry can be utilized if this region is the most desirable for access. The device can simply be turned off once the heating element has treated the segment intended, thereby eliminating the risk of nerve damage. Ultrasound identification of the sural or saphenous nerve is helpful to avoid injury (Fig. 4.22A,B). The ultrasound survey will also identify any tortuous seg­ments that may hinder thermal device advancement. Once a suitable access site is chosen, the patient is surgi­cally prepped and draped according to the facility’s routine. Vein entry (access) is obtained under ultrasound guidance (Fig. 4.23A,B), step-up wires and sheaths are placed, and the thermal device is positioned in the saphe­nous vein (GSV inferior to the superficial epigastric vein (Fig. 4.24A) or the SSV where the vein begins to terminate to a deep venous segment (Fig. 4.24B). Accurate place­ment of the thermal tip is aided by the ultrasound image. Artifacts within the vein, including trapped air bubbles, can hinder visualization of or sometimes be mistaken for the thermal tip. Manipulation and movement of the thermal tip may help to validate accurate position with certainty. Anesthesia surrounding the vein is the next step. Needle placement within the peri-venous plane with a very dilute anesthetic solution is accomplished under ultrasound guidance in either a transverse or longitudinal orientation (Fig. 4.25A,B). Once adequately placed, the anesthetic will facilitate extrinsic compression of the vein
A B
A B
Figure 4.22  (A) Transverse ultrasound  image of the sural nerve in close proximity  of the small saphenous vein. (B) Proximal  movement of the transducer demonstrates  less proximity of the sural nerve to the SSV  and may suggest a safe placement of a  needle or thermal device within this area
Figure 4.23  (A) Longitudinal gray scale  ultrasound image of needle ‘tenting’ anterior  wall of the saphenous vein. (B) Further  advance of the needle into the vein with  successful access
A B
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A B
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Lower Extremity Ultrasound: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications
Figure 4.24  (A) Longitudinal gray scale  ultrasound image of the thermal tip of a  laser fiber placed inferior to the superficial  epigastric vein. (B) Ultrasound visualization  of the thermal tip of a laser fiber inferior to  the popliteal vein
Figure 4.25  (A) Longitudinal gray  scale ultrasound image of tumescent  anesthesia with needle guidance  along the saphenous sheath.   Note the needle tip, fluid, and   laser fiber (placed within the vein).  (B) Transverse gray scale  ultrasound image of tumescent  anesthesia surrounding the laser  fiber (within the saphenous vein)
wall and also create a heat sink to absorb the thermal energy. Confirmation of adequate anesthesia fluid place­ment is achieved with ultrasound imaging in transverse views (Fig. 4.25B) along the course of intended treatment. Once the anesthetic fluid is placed and confirmation of the tip is assured, the thermal treatment begins. Due to ultrasound artifact considerations introduced by fluid, one can understand why the thermal tip is positioned prior to administering the tumescent anesthesia. The thermal abla­tion is completed once the device has been successfully pulled back at the appropriate speed and removed from inside the vein. The benefit of skilled ultrasound visuali­zation to assist treatment cannot be overstated in reducing risks and complications. Accurate thermal tip placement and ample anesthesia is imperative.
• Chemical ablation
Chemical ablation procedures are often referred to as ultrasound-guided injection sclerotherapy (UGS). The use of foam sclerotherapy (in which foam is created by Tessari’s method of mixing 1 part sclerosant liquid and 4 parts gas, producing a stable foam consistency) has gained interest as a method of treatment of superficial venous disease. This method was first published in 1989 but gained greater acceptance in 1995 when first presented by Cabrera. Safety studies have been published by Morrison
et al (2008). The use of UGS has many practical consid-
erations, and will be further described in other chapters. The application of ultrasound visualization during UGS includes accurate guidance and placement of the catheter or direct needle punctures into the vein, absolute avoid­ance of intra-arterial injections, and control of the foam distribution within the vein to modify or adapt the volume
being injected. With skill and expertise, foam sclerother­apy can successfully ablate saphenous truncal and nontrun­cal reflux. The primary use for ultrasound-guided injection is the precise placement of sclerosant into the abnormal vein and observation of the high contrast foamed sclero­sant. Needle observation is improved with decreased dynamic range ultrasound settings. An absolute parallel position of the transducer on the skin is essential. Utilizing a cross-sectional image with the needle approach down the long axis of the transducer (Fig. 4.26A) will facilitate needle visualization from the skin line directly to the target (Fig. 4.26B).
Duplications of the deep venous system are common, including the femoral vein of the thigh, popliteal, and calf veins. Duplications may be important during foam sclero­therapy due to migration of the foam into the deep venous system. The duplicated vein calibers vary, and these unique flow rates may subject these vessels as susceptible for DVT (Fig. 4.27A,B).
• Post treatment follow up
While it is completely gratifying to obtain treatment success, some patients do encounter treatment failure. Additionally, there are reported complications following venous procedures, including deep vein thrombosis (Fig. 4.28) and superficial thrombophlebitis (Fig. 4.29A,B). Early intervention is critical and begins with identification, which may require new or additional therapy. Interval follow-up will reassure the patient and monitor timely progress. The frequency of vein recurrence is due to several factors of the disease, thus ultrasound surveillance after treatment is warranted and suggested. The ultrasound examiner should possess a comprehensive
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Treatment of Leg Veins
A B
Figure 4.26  (A) Photo of transverse  transducer orientation with needle access  along the long access. (B) Gray scale  ultrasound image of needle tip in the  targeted vein
A B
Figure 4.27  (A) Longitudinal gray scale ultrasound image of a duplicated femoral vein  segment. (B) Color flow ultrasound image of the  duplicated femoral segment. Note that one of the two segments is occluded with absence of color flow in one of the two paired veins
Figure 4.28  Transverse color flow ultrasound image of the gastrocnemius vein and artery  in the medial  calf. Note the  absence of color  flow in  the gastrocnemius vein and increased echogenicity, which is diagnostic for deep vein thrombosis
A B
Figure 4.29  (A) Transverse gray scale image of dilated varicose vein. Note presence  of marked echogenicity  within the vessel  loops. These  areas do not compress and are diagnostic of thrombosed segments. (B) Color flow image of the vessel with absence of flow within the vessel  lumen to confirm occlusion of the vessel segment
Figure 4.30  Transverse gray scale image of previously ablated 
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saphenous vein. Typical findings at 3-month interval with mixed  echogenicity within the vessel lumen
Figure 4.31  Transverse gray scale image of previously ablated  saphenous vein with sonographic disappearance of the vessel at   9 month interval
knowledge of potential complications and expected out­comes. Gradual shrinkage of the treated veins over a course of 6–9 months will result in their eventual disap­pearance from ultrasonic detection (Figs 4.30 and 4.31).
SUMMARY
A successful approach to treating patients with venous disease includes the use of duplex ultrasound and careful evaluation pre-, peri- and post-treatment. Critically important factors in venous assessment are the quality of the device utilized and the qualifications of the sono­graphic examiner.
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Lower Extremity Ultrasound: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications
FURTHER READING
Bergan JJ (ed) 2007 The vein book, Ultrasound examination of
the patient primary venous insufficiency. Academic Press,
San Diego, CA Caggiati A, Bergan JJ, Gloviczki P et al 2005 Nomenclature of the
veins of the lower limb: Extensions, refinements, and clinical
applications. Journal of Vascular Surgery 41:719–724 Caggiati A, Bergan, JJ, Gloviczki P et al 2002 Nomenclature of the
veins of the lower limbs: an international interdisciplinary
consensus statement. Journal of Vascular Surgery 36:416–422 Cavezzi N, Labropoulos H, Partsch S et al 2006 Duplex ultrasound
investigation of the veins in chronic venous disease of the lower
limbs – UIP consensus document. Part II. Anatomy. European
Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery 31:288–299 Coleridege-Smith P, Labropoulos N, Partsch H et al 2006 Duplex
ultrasound investigation of the veins in chronic venous disease of
the lower limbs – UIP consensus document. Part I. Basic
principles. European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular
Surgery 31:83–92 Dona E, Fletcher JP, Hughes MD, et al 2000 Duplicated popliteal
and superficial femoral veins: Incidence and potential
significance. Australian & New Zealand Journal of Surgery
70:438–440 Franceschi C, Zamboni P 2009 Principles of venous hemodynamics.
Nova Science Fronek H (ed) 2004 The fundamentals of phlebology: Venous
disease for clinicians. San Leandro, CA, American College of
Phlebology Knight RM, Vin F, Zygmunt JA 1989 Ultrasonic guidance of
injections into the superficial venous system. Davy A, Stemmer
R (eds) Phlebologie ’89 John Libby Eurotext Ltd, pp. 339–341 Labropoulos N, Tiongson J, Pryor L et al 2003 Definition of venous
reflux in lower extremity veins. Journal of Vascular Surgery
38:793–798 Lurie F 2009 Venous haemodynamics: What we know and don’t
know. Phlebology 24:3–7 Morrison N, Neuhardt DL, Rogers CR et al 2008 Comparison of
side effects using air and carbon dioxide foam for endovenous
chemical ablation. Journal of Vascular Surgery 47:830–836 Rumack C, Wilson S, Charboneau JW (ed) 1998 Diagnostic
ultrasound, The peripheral veins. St Louis, Mosby Tarrant G, Clarke J 2008 Differences in venous function of the
lower limb by time of day: A comparison of chronic venous
insufficiency between an afternoon and a morning appointment
by duplex ultrasound. Journal of Vascular Ultrasound 32:187–
192
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An Overview of Therapy for Leg Veins
Jeffrey T.S. Hsu
INTRODUCTION
Depending on the size and location of the leg veins to be treated, any of a multitude of therapeutic options may be appropriate. While selecting the correct treatment tech­niques is important, management of patient expectations prior to the treatment can be equally vital. A complete list of topics should be discussed with every prospective patient (Box 5.1). The patient must understand that although improvement is expected, there is no guarantee regarding the degree of improvement. Risks accompany any medical procedure, and these must be discussed thor­oughly. Once the physician has conveyed the necessary information, the patient should be encouraged to ask questions and should be provided with a detailed explana­tion of any concerns, as appropriate. If the patient appears overly anxious, overly demanding, or simply unable to understand the procedure, the patient may not be an ideal candidate for intervention.
COMPRESSION
Use of external compression therapy (CT) is a fundamen­tal strategy in the treatment of lower extremity venous disease. Despite recent therapeutic advancements in leg vein treatment, compression remains a simple, effective, and inexpensive modality. It should be considered as the primary treatment in many conditions, and as an adjunct when other treatments are employed (Box 5.2).
Whether passive or active, compression improves venous disease through several mechanisms. Compression narrows the lumens of the veins in the superficial system, which accelerates venous flow, decreases venous pooling, and helps to shift venous flow from the superficial into the deep venous system. Compression also may partially restore valvular function, and gradually reverse degenera­tive changes in the veins, thus also reducing venous reflux.
COMPRESSION BANDAGES (TABLES 5.1 AND
5.2; FIG. 5.2)
• Short-stretch bandages
Various modalities are available for compression. Com­pletely rigid inelastic bandages, like the zinc gel Unna boot (Unna-Flex, Convatec, Princeton, NJ), and the Gelocast (Beiersdorf Inc., Norwalk, CT), both dry to form a cast around the leg. Short-stretch bandages such as Comprilan (Beiersdorf, Norwalk, CT) are made of fabric that stretches 30–50%. Inelastic bandages and short-stretch bandages exert passive compression to treat edema, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or ulcerations due to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). They must be applied by trained staff to ensure a proper fit and remain in place for several days continuously. However, as edema remits and leg circumference decreases, the inelastic nature of the bandages fails to accommodate for this change and cor­responding pressure loss can occur as early as within the first few hours of application.
ACTIVE AND PASSIVE COMPRESSION
Compression can be either passive or active. Passive com­pression is applied using inelastic bandages. As muscles contract, the bandages resist the volume increase and thereby deliver increased pressure is delivered. As the muscles relax, the volume decreases so that minimal pres­sure is applied by the bandages. On the other hand, active compression using elastic bandages permits application of pressure both during muscular exercise and at relaxation. This constant pressure may not be tolerated by bedridden or inactive patients, and may be contraindicated in arterial insufficiency (Fig. 5.1).
• Long-stretch bandages
Long-stretch bandages, made of fabric that can stretch 100–200%, provide active compression, indicated after surgery, sclerotherapy, or thrombophlebitis. Their main disadvantage is the potential hazard to patients with arterial occlusive disease. The application of bandages is dependent on the skill of the practitioner, with experi­enced clinicians able to consistently apply bandages with pressure ranging from 25–50 mmHg. The less experienced typically achieve pressures in a broader range, from 15– 70 mmHg, and deviation on the high end can lead to arte­rial occlusion in those with pre-existing arterial disease.
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Box 5.1  Topics of pre-treatment discussion  with patient
v Patient expectations v Expected discomfort during treatment v Number of treatments required v Benefits of treatment v Possible risks and complications of treatment v Treatment alternatives v Post-treatment care v Duration and nature of recovery phase
Table 5.1  Manufacturers of compression stockings
Location and
Brand
Jobst Charlotte, NC 
Sigvaris
JuZo Cuyahoga Falls, OH 
Medi Whitsett, NC 
Venosan
telephone number Website
1-800-537-1063
Peachtree City, GA  1-800-481-5488
1-800-222-4999
1-888-633-6334
Asheboro, NC  1-800-322-7744
www.jobst-usa.com
www.sigvaris.com
www.juzousa.com
www.mediusa.com
www.venosanusa.com
Box 5.2  Indications  for leg vein compression
v DVT prophylaxis v Active DVT treatment v Symptomatic varicose veins v Chronic venous insufficiency v Venous ulcers v Post sclerotherapy v Post phlebectomy v Post endovascular ablation v Pregnancy v Thrombophlebitis
Table 5.2  Manufacturers of compression bandages
Manufacturer Type Adherence/Name
Convatec  Princeton, NJ
Beiersdorf  Norwalk, CT
Beiersdorf
Beiersdorf Non-Stretch Cohesive/Gelocast
3M Health Care  St. Paul, MN
Convatec  Princeton, NJ
Conco Medical  Bridgeport, CT
High Stretch Nonhesive/Tubigrip
Low Stretch Nonhesive/Comprilan
Cohesive/Comprihaft Adhesive/Elastoplast
High Stretch Nonhesive/Eloflex
Cohesive/Elohaft
High Stretch Adhesive/Microfoam
Non-Stretch Cohesive/Unna-Flex
Low Stretch Cohesive/Medi-Rip
A B
Therefore, before application, arterial flow should be eval­uated by checking the ankle/brachial index, and patients should be instructed on how to properly superimpose each successive layer. After being washed, the bandages tend to lose some of their compressive capability.
Skin
Superficial
vein
Deep vein
Communicating
vein
Compression
bandage
Figure 5.1  (A) Before compression.  (B) Compression shifts the venous flow  from superficial to deep system
• Multilayer bandages
Multilayer bandages are a compromise between inelastic bandages and long-stretch elastic bandages. They are often comprised of four superimposing layers: (1) wool padding for comfort and to absorb exudates; (2) cotton bandage
An Overview of Therapy for Leg Veins
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Table 5.3  Classes of compression stockings
51
A
B
C
Figure 5.2  (A–C) Proper application of stretch bandage post  sclerotherapy
to hold the wool in place; (3) long-stretch elastic bandage for active compression; and finally, (4) cohesive medium­stretch bandages. The different indications for the various bandage options are not absolute as the ultimate phys­iologic effect can be modified by the clinician applying the bandage. Comparative studies assessing the utility of particular bandages for select indications are still inconclusive.
COMPRESSION STOCKINGS
Stockings provide an alternative to bandages. Varying in length and by degree of compression, stockings can be used for prophylaxis against DVT or development of varicose veins. Stockings are also indicated after surgery, phlebectomy, or sclerotherapy. Compression following sclerotherapy of varicose veins and larger reticular veins is a universally accepted intervention that encourages the direct apposition of the vein walls so as to decrease the likelihood of thrombus formation and subsequent reca­nalization of the treated vessel. The avoidance of throm­bus formation also appears to limit hyperpigmentation and thrombophlebitis and subsequent telangiectatic matting. However, the utility of stockings following treatment of small telangiectasias continues to be debated. After leg
Compression class
0 10–20 Mild functional venous 
I 20–30
II 30–40 Symptomatic varicose 
III 40–50 Venous ulcers
IV >60 Sever  symptoms, difficult 
The above classification of compression classes may vary  among different countries and different brands.
Pressure (mmHg) Common indications
insufficiency
Chronic venous  insufficiency, symptomatic  varicose veins, DVT
veins, DVT, venous ulcers
to control edema,  significant skin fibrosis
surgery or phlebectomy, stockings help prevent hemato­mas. During pregnancy, stockings forestall the develop­ment of varicose veins that would otherwise proliferate further due to increased venous pressure and hormonal influences. Pressure stockings are also a key element in the treatment of superficial thrombophlebitis.
There are five stocking compression classes, designated 0 to IV (Table 5.3). In each class, there are available various lengths, ranging from socks, to thigh-high, to full­length pantyhose. Proper selection is contingent on the indication and the patient’s ability to tolerate compres­sion. Elderly patients may have difficulty putting on the stockings, especially the high-compression stockings, and devices have been developed to assist these individuals. An alternative strategy is to superimpose two pairs of compression stockings, with, for example, two pairs of Class 0 stockings offering the same pressure as one pair of Class I stockings. The two separate stockings are easier to pull on. Stockings tend to lose pressure with routine use and washing, and may need to be replaced every 6 months.
Class 0 stockings are indicated in mild functional venous insufficiency that results in minimal varicose veins with associated mild edema or leg fatigue. Chronic venous insufficiency and more severely symptomatic varicose veins should be treated with either Class I or II stockings. Class I or II stockings are also indicated in the outpatient management of DVT as they relieve pain and edema, and enhance thrombus adhesion. Leg ulcer treatment requires Class II or III stockings in addition to local skin treatment. Alternatively, ulcerations may be amenable to other types of compression treatment such as multilayer bandages or inelastic bandages. Class IV is reserved for those with severe symptoms, difficult to control edema and signifi­cant skin fibrosis.
There is no consensus on the duration or degree of compression needed after surgery. Although one study has
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Treatment of Leg Veins
shown equal efficacy between high and low pressure com­pression stockings in minimizing incidence of bruising and thrombophlebitis after varicose vein surgery, high com­pression stockings are clearly necessary after sclerother­apy. However, there appears to be no difference between Class I and Class II compression stockings in controlling the objective and subjective parameters of venous insuf­ficiency. Weiss et al studied the duration of compression after sclerotherapy and found that subjects with the most improvement used 3 weeks of compression, followed by the group with 1 week of compression, followed by the group who only used compression for 3 days. All treatment groups had significant improvement compared to the control group that did not receive compression. The 1-week and 3-week groups also experienced less sclerotherapy-associated hyperpigmentation than the 3-day group and the control group.
TREATMENT OF SMALL VESSEL DISEASE
When larger truncal varicose veins are present, the associ­ated telangiectasias cannot be successfully treated without addressing the underlying hydrostatic pressure elevation. In cases of great saphenous vein (GSV) incompetence, surgical techniques or endovenous ablative techniques may be required. Ambulatory phlebectomy allows treat­ment of virtually all large varicose veins while sclero­therapy can be used to treat large varicose veins and reticular varicose veins. Only after the reticular, varicose, and deep incompetent veins have been treated should attention turn to treating the superficial telangiectasias with sclerotherapy or with laser- or light-based devices. In patients with only isolated telangiectasias without pres­sure problems in larger vessels, sclerotherapy or laser/light therapy may be used primarily (Fig. 5.3).
• Sclerotherapy
The goal of sclerotherapy is to intravascularly infuse a chemical irritant to cause irreversible endothelial cellular destruction, which leads to vascular fibrosis and oblitera­tion. Virtually any foreign substance can be utilized to induce venous endothelial damage, and several sclerosing solutions are commercially available for this purpose (Table 5.4). The selection of solution type, concentration, and quantity is dictated by the type and site of the varicos­ity (Fig. 5.4).
post-sclerotherapy compression
To decrease the incidence of thrombus formation, which may lead to subsequent recanalization and post-sclerosis pigmentation, compression is also an essential adjunct to sclerotherapy of large varicose veins. Moreover, direct apposition of vein walls due to external compression increases the duration of sclerosant contact with the endothelium, thus making the procedure more effective. Lastly, the reduced thrombotic and subsequent inflamma­tory phlebitic events may also minimize telangiectatic matting. Some authors argue that telangiectasias < require no compression after injection, but there is general agreement that sclerotherapy of larger telangiectasias, venulectasia, reticular veins, and varicose veins must be followed by several days of compression therapy. During sclerotherapy, elastic bandages are commonly applied immediately after the last sclerosant injections. Cotton balls or rubber cushions may be placed under these band­ages to provide additional pressure at points of reflux or over larger veins to prevent thrombosis. Since the band­ages gradually lose the compressive force as they are loosened with patient movement, many clinicians prefer
1 mm
A B C
D E
Figure 5.3  (A) Visualization of the leg vein.  (B) Two-point counterpressure applied to the  injection site. (C) Placement of the needle into  the vein at 30 degrees. (D) Steady injection  producing immediate blanching of vessel.   (E
) Immediate application of cotton ball and 
tape
An Overview of Therapy for Leg Veins
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Figure 5.4  Sclerotherapy tray consisting of:  rubbing alcohol, needles and syringes, various  sclerosants (shown here: 72% glycerin, 0.5%  sodium tetradecyl sulfate, 0.2% sodium tetradecyl  sulfate, and 0.1% sodium tetradecyl sulfate),  compression bandage, three-way stopcock,  gauze, tape. Not shown are cotton balls
Table 5.4  Common sclerosing agents
Solution Category Advantages Disadvantages Brands
53
Sodium  tetradecyl sulfate
Polidocanol Detergent Painless; rare  necrosis; 
Hypertonic saline Hyperosmolar 
Glycerin Toxin
Detergent Painful only with 
extravasation; capable  of sclerosing larger  veins; FDA approved
FDA approved
Nonallergenic
solution
Rare matting,  pigmentation, necrosis
compression stockings for bandages after sclerotherapy, or they will advise patients to replace the bandages with stockings a few hours after the procedure.
patient selection
Before embarking on sclerotherapy, a pertinent medical history should be obtained. Specifically, history of lower extremity infections, diabetes, anaphylaxis, and severe asthma should be elicited. Coagulopathies, pregnancy, history of recurrent DVT, and inability to ambulate are contraindications for sclerotherapy. Laboratory tests are usually not necessary except when hypercoagulable states are suspected. Diagnostic studies such as duplex scanning should be reserved for patients with symptomatic vari­cosities, varicose veins larger than 4 mm in diameter, or
Necrosis if extravasation 
with >0.25% solution; 
pigmentation, matting
Urticaria at injection site; no 
pain to warn of arteriolar 
injection
FDA: off-label; painful 
injections, necrosis, 
pigmentation, matting
Too weak for large veins; 
more viscous; possible 
allergy; FDA off-label
Sotradecol  (Angiodynamics,  Quensbury, NY) Fibrovein  (STD Pharmaceuticals Inc,  Hereford, UK)
Asclera (Merz, San Mateo,  CA) Aethoxysklerol (Kreussler,  Germany)
None
Scleremo (Lab Therica,  France)
Box 5.3  Expected and minor sequelae  of sclerotherapy
v Hyperpigmentation (for reticular veins >3 mm) v Edema v Matting v
Pain with injection
v Localized urticaria v Vasovagal reaction v Thrombophlebitis v
Recurrence of treated vessels
large numbers of spider telangiectasias that are collectively indicative of venous hypertension.
Prior to treatment, patients must understand the pro­cedure and its limitations (Boxes 5.3 and 5.4). The patient must be told that ‘perfect legs’ are not possible, although