Pharmacological interventions to treat phlebitis: systematic review.

This study presents a systematic review for evaluating effective pharmacological actions for the treatment of phlebitis stemming from infusion therapy. The studies reviewed were categorized according to the type of therapeutic approach proposed by the author and by the level of evidence presented. The review found that topical nitroglycerin and notoginseny were more effective in the reduction of the inflammatory process when compared with other proposed alternatives. Nevertheless, the development of research related to possible alternatives for the treatment of phlebitis is important.

[Inflammation and subcutaneous calcification of venous origins]. / Inflammation et calcifications sous-cutanees d'origine veineuse.

There have been few descriptions up to now of calcifications in chronic venous insufficiency, other than in cases where venous insufficiency is complicated be severe trophic disorders and in particular ulcers. It was therefore felt to be of interest to assess the presence of calcifications in venous insufficiency without trophic disorders. This study was based upon 40 cases recruited in the phlebology out-patient clinic of the Notre Dame de Bon Secours Hospital. Calcifications of the lower limbs were found in 7 patients, either by palpation, routine X-rays or ultrasonography. The etiopathogenic mechanisms of this occurrence not having been elucidated, a number of hypotheses are put forward on the basis of acquired data concerning: the process of formation of ectopic calcifications, changes in subcutaneous tissue, the ultimate consequences of venous stasis and of raised venous pressure, due essentially to anoxia and inflammation. One hypothesis can thus be put forward: that of inflammation. The release of cells and mediators of inflammation, the production of free radicals, causing damage to the cells of connective tissue and to the organic framework (collagen fibres) and changes in the chemical environment could combine to result in the formation of calcifications in subcutaneous tissue. However, inflammation has not been proven to be the primary etiological factor.

[Measurement of the effects of Barbotan-les-Thermes waters on the venous filling and drainage in patients with phlebitis and varicosities using plethysmography with a measuring gauge]. / Mesures des effets des "eaux de Barbotan-les-Thermes, sur le remplissage et la vidange veineuse chez les phlébitiques et les variqueux par pléthysmographie à jauge de mesure".

The effects of Barbotan waters have been tested using plethysmography with a mercury gauge, with venous occlusion in 73 patients taking the cure with venous pathology; 43 legs with phlebitic sequelae, 72 varicose legs. The principal parameters of filling and emptying were measured. Dynamic pictures made it possible to show the variation in these parameters. The publication demonstrates a remarkable normalization effect in the venous functions. In it we discuss classification by the plethysmographic means alone and the eventuality of the venous areas. We conclude by linking this normalising effect on the venous functions with the antispasmodic effect already discussed in an earlier work.