Complementary Gene Therapy after Revascularization with the Saphenous Vein in Diabetic Foot Syndrome.

Diabetic foot syndrome (DFS) is one of the most serious macroangiopathic complications of diabetes. The primary treatment option is revascularization, but complementary therapies are still being sought. The study group consisted of 18 patients diagnosed with ischemic ulcerative and necrotic lesions in DFS. Patients underwent revascularization procedures and, due to unsatisfactory healing of the lesions, were randomly allocated to two groups: a group in which bicistronic VEGF165/HGF plasmid was administered and a control group in which saline placebo was administered. Before gene therapy administration and after 7, 30, 90, and 180 days, color duplex ultrasonography (CDU) was performed, the ankle-brachial index (ABI) and transcutaneous oxygen pressure (TcPO2) were measured, and DFS changes were described and documented photographically. In the gene therapy group, four out of eight patients (50%) healed their DFS lesions before 12 weeks. During this time, the ABI increased by an average of 0.25 and TcPO2 by 30.4 mmHg. In the control group, healing of the lesions by week 12 occurred in six out of nine patients (66.67%), and the ABI increased by an average of 0.14 and TcPO2 by 27.1 mmHg. One major amputation occurred in each group. Gene therapy may be an attractive option for complementary treatment in DFS.

Comparison of oxybuprocaine and lidocaine topical anesthesia for pain control in radiofrequency ablation treatment of great saphenous vein insufficiency.

Topical anesthetics have been used for radiofrequency ablation of great saphenous vein insufficiency. A total of 74 patients with great saphenous vein insufficiency treated at our center between February 2021 and August 2022 were enrolled. The patients were selected and divided into an oxybuprocaine group(n = 30) and a lidocaine group (n = 44). The visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to evaluate intraoperative and postoperative pain. Patient satisfaction with anesthesia, maintenance time of anesthesia, and disturbance of the surgeons were also recorded and assessed. The VAS scores and other indices of the 2 groups were compared to assess the effectiveness of anesthesia. Perioperative surgical complications and painkiller use were also recorded. The median VAS score of the patients during the process was 2 in both groups, and the difference between the groups was not statistically significant. In the 2 groups, 93.33% of the patients in the oxybuprocaine group and 93.18% of the patients in the lidocaine group were satisfed with the anesthesia. Nine patients in the lidocaine group and 14 in the oxybuprocaine group received additional anesthetic drugs. The average maintenance time of anesthesia was longer in the lidocaine group. No serious complications occurred in either of the groups. Both oxybuprocaine and lidocaine topical anesthesia combined with tumescent anesthesia could provide effective pain control in radiofrequency ablation treatment of great saphenous vein insufficiency. Although the average maintenance time of anesthesia was longer in the lidocaine group, there was no difference in the associated complications and pain control.

Linear endovenous energy density (LEED) should always be quoted with the power used in endovenous thermal ablation - results from an in-vitro porcine liver model study.

BACKGROUND: Linear Endovenous Energy Density (LEED) is the energy used per cm of vein in endovenous thermal ablation (EVTA) but does not include time. This study examines the effect of time during EVTA. METHOD: EVTA was performed in a previously validated porcine liver model. LEEDs of 40, 60, 80 and 100 J/cm, using different powers were repeated 5 times each. Thermal spread, tissue carbonisation and device-tissue sticking during treatment were recorded. RESULT: LEED positively correlated to thermal spread and carbonisation of the tissue. Power was correlated with carbonisation but not thermal spread. Pullback had no correlations with thermal spread or carbonisation. Catheter sticking found occurred in powers >= 15 W or LEED >= 80 J/cm. CONCLUSION: LEED is a good measure of EVTA but does not include time. Power, which does include time, correlates with carbonisation and with device-tissue sticking. The power used must be quoted with the LEED.

A randomized clinical trial of isolated ambulatory phlebectomy versus saphenous thermal ablation with concomitant phlebectomy (SAPTAP Trial).

BACKGROUND: Current treatment of patients with saphenous trunk and tributary incompetence consists of truncal ablation with concomitant, delayed or no treatment of the tributary. However, reflux of the saphenous trunk may be reversible after treatment of the incompetent tributary. The aim of this study was to determine whether single ambulatory phlebectomy with or without delayed endovenous truncal ablation (SAP) is non-inferior to thermal endovenous ablation with concomitant phlebectomy (TAP), and whether SAP is a cost-effective alternative to TAP. METHODS: A multicentre, non-inferiority RCT was conducted in patients with an incompetent great saphenous vein or anterior accessory saphenous vein with one or more incompetent tributaries. Participants were randomized to receive SAP or TAP. After 9 months, additional truncal treatment was considered for SAP patients with remaining symptoms. The primary outcome was VEnous INsufficiency Epidemiological and Economic Study Quality of Life/Symptoms (VEINES-QOL/Sym score) after 12 months. Secondary outcomes were, among others, cost-effectiveness, perceived improvement of symptoms, and anatomical success. RESULTS: Some 464 patients received the allocated treatment (SAP 227, TAP 237). VEINES-QOL scores were 52.7 (95 per cent c.i. 51.9 to 53.9) for SAP and 53.8 (53.3 to 55.1) for TAP; VEINES-Sym scores were 53.5 (52.6 to 54.4) and 54.2 (54.0 to 55.6) respectively. Fifty-eight patients (25.6 per cent) in the SAP group received additional truncal ablation. Treatment with SAP was less costly than treatment with TAP. CONCLUSION: One year after treatment, participants who underwent SAP had non-inferior health-related quality of life compared with those who had TAP. Treatment with SAP was a cost-effective alternative to TAP at 12 months. REGISTRATION NUMBER: NTR 4821 (www.trialregister.nl).

Rationale and current evidence of aquatic exercise therapy in venous disease: A narrative review.

Chronic venous disorders (CVD) of the lower limbs can be treated with different strategies. Typically, conservative management is based on compression therapy, anticoagulants and venoactive drugs. Endovenous treatments remain the gold standard to treat saphenous insufficiency, with sclerotherapy and surgery maintaining a role in selected cases. In addition, several 'unconventional' approaches have been proposed to prevent CVD progression and complications, minimize symptoms and improve the quality of life and postoperative outcomes. Among these, balneotherapy and aquatic exercises are proving as valid and effective supporting treatments, as mentioned in a growing number of scientific publications. Moreover, aquatic protocols have been studied for both venous and lymphatic insufficiency. For these reasons, they were mentioned in the last CVD guidelines provided by the European Society for Vascular Surgery. The aim of this narrative review is to overview and summarize current literature evidences on the role and effectiveness of aquatic rehabilitative protocols in CVD, reviewing old and current literature. Furthermore, the physical basis of the effects of water immersion on lower limb venous and tissues modifications are also described.

[Truncal mechanochemical versus thermal endovenous ablation for varicose vein disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis]. / Sistematicheskii obzor i metaanaliz rezul'tatov primeneniya stvolovoi mekhanokhimicheskoi i termal'noi obliteratsii u patsientov s varikoznoi bolezn'yu.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the outcomes of thermal and mechanochemical endovenous ablative techniques in patients with varicose veins. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We searched the PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library databases for studies devoted to mechanochemical and thermal endovenous ablative techniques from inception until July 2021. The primary outcome was anatomical success. Secondary endpoints were intraoperative pain syndrome, complications, modification of disease severity and quality of life. RESULTS: This meta-analysis enrolled 10 comparative studies and 1.252 participants after truncal ablations. The follow-up period ranged from 4 weeks to 36 months. With regard to overall anatomical success, 245 out of 267 (91.8%) patients after mechanochemical ablation and 249 out of 266 (93.6%) patients after thermal ablation had favorable results after a month (low-quality evidence; odds ratio [OR] 0.79; 95% CI 0.40-1.55). No statistical heterogeneity was identified (χ2=1.48; df=2; p=0.48; I2=0%). Further analysis identified different incidence of total occlusion after 12 months or later (OR 0.36; 95% CI 0.11-1.21; p=0.05; I2=68%). Mechanochemical ablation resulted less intraoperative pain. Mean difference was -1.3 (95% CI -2.53- -0.07; p=0.00001). MOCA was followed by fewer incidence of nerve injury, hematoma, deep vein thrombosis and phlebitis. There were more cases of skin pigmentation compared to thermal ablation (low-quality evidence, p>0.05). Subsequent assessment of disease severity identified significant between-group difference of means (-0.64 (95% CI -1.82-0.53; p=0.004) and -0.16 (95% CI -0.43-0.11; p=0.005) after 6 and 12 months, respectively). Further assessment of quality of life revealed no between-group differences. These data were characterized by moderate methodological quality. CONCLUSION: Mechanochemical ablation is as effective as standard TA within the first postoperative month. However, this approach is associated with lesser anatomical success after 12 months. In most studies, pain syndrome was less severe in case of mechanochemical ablation. These data suggest that mechanochemical ablation is a safe alternative for varicose veins. However, further large-scale trials are required to define the role of MOCA.

A nutraceutical formulation combined with sclerofoam-assisted laser treatment ameliorates chronic venous insufficiency.

Chronic venous insufficiency has a high impact on the healthcare system due to its high incidence worldwide. We performed a study in 30 women with thigh and leg varices due to major saphenous vein valve incontinence with saphenous trunk reflux causing phlebo-lymphoedema to assess the efficacy of sclerofoam-assisted laser treatment combined with nutraceutical administration. The patients underwent endovascular combination sealing of the saphenous trunk with sclerofoam-assisted laser treatment technique into the major saphenous veins under low-volume tumescent anesthesia followed by intraoperative phlebectomies. Post-operatively, the patients received capsules containing Aesculus Hippocastanum, chondroitin sulphate, proanthocyanidins from Pinus pinaster Aiton, proanthocyanidins from Vitis vinifera L., hydrolysed marine collagen and carcinine dihydrochloride for 3 weeks. We evaluated the extracellular fluid volume of the lower limbs using bioimpedance spectroscopy pre- (T0) and post-surgery (T2) (impedance is a vector which is composed of two components, resistance [RES] and reactance [REA)]). In addition, we evaluated the following parameters pre- and post-surgery: pain, heaviness, paresthesia, itching, swelling, daily urine volume output and leg volume. Limb volume was significantly decreased at T2 compared to T0 (p < 0.01). RES and REA were significantly increased at T2 compared to T0 (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.01, respectively). A significant improvement in heaviness, paresthesia, pain, swelling and itch was also observed (all p < 0.0001) while no changes in terms of diuresis occurred. No adverse effects were observed. The present study shows a promising approach to the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency that warrants further clinical studies in larger cohorts of patients.

Ten-year follow-up of a randomized controlled trial comparing saphenofemoral ligation and stripping of the great saphenous vein with endovenous laser ablation (980 nm) using local tumescent anesthesia.

OBJECTIVE: The long-term results of saphenofemoral ligation and stripping (SFL/S) were compared with 980-nm bare fiber endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) for the treatment of great saphenous vein (GSV) incompetence. METHODS: This was a single-center, randomized, controlled trial with a follow-up time of 10 years. Patients with GSV incompetence were randomized to undergo SFL/S or EVLA under tumescent anesthesia. The primary outcome was recurrence of groin-related varicose veins seen on duplex ultrasound imaging and clinical examination. The secondary outcomes were (changes or improvement in) CEAP clinical class, venous symptoms, cosmetic results, quality of life, reinterventions, and complications. RESULTS: Between June 2007 and December 2008, 122 patients (130 limbs) were included; of these, 68 limbs were treated with SFL/S and 62 limbs with EVLA. The 10-year estimated freedom from groin recurrence as seen on duplex ultrasound imaging was higher in the SFL/S group (73% vs 44% in the EVLA group; P = .002), and the same trend was seen for clinically evident recurrence (77% vs 58%, respectively; P = .034). Nine reinterventions (17%) were deemed necessary in the SFL/S group vs 18 (36%) in the EVLA group (P = .059). All reinterventions in the SFL/S group consisted of foam sclerotherapy. Reinterventions in the EVLA group included foam sclerotherapy (n = 5), crossectomy (n = 2), and endovenous procedures (n = 11). There was no significant differences in quality of life and relief of venous symptoms. Cosmetic appearance improved, with a better cosmetic rating in the SFL/S group compared with the EVLA group (P = .026). One patient in the SFL/S group had a persisting neurosensory deficit remaining at 10 years. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed no clear long-term advantage of EVLA with a 980-nm wavelength and bare-tip fiber over high ligation and stripping of the GSV under local tumescent anesthesia.

Effects of acupuncture on pain and levels of IL-17 and IL-23 in the treatment of non-thermal endovenous ablation: A randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: Acupuncture is one of the oldest therapeutic interventions in the world for the treatment of pain, musculoskeletal diseases, and inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the effect of acupuncture on pain and IL-17 and IL-23 levels in the treatment of endovenous ablation. METHODS: The study was a randomized controlled trial. Patients were divided into group C (Control, n = 35) and group A (Acupuncture, n = 35). Group A patients were treated with acupuncture 24 h preoperatively. Follow-up checkups were conducted intraoperatively, postoperatively, and on the third day. RESULTS: There was no difference between men; there was a difference between women. Visual analog scale score was lower in group A at the intraoperative third and fifth minutes (0.00 vs. 1 and 0.00 vs. 0.5). Analgesic consumption was lower in group A at the end of third day (p = 0.024). Postoperative IL-17 levels were higher than preoperative levels in group A (23.58 vs. 19.33). Postoperative IL-23 levels were lower than preoperative levels in group A (13.66 vs. 29.51). Group C showed increased postoperative IL-23 levels (28.81 vs. 33.51). Preoperative IL-17 and postoperative IL-23 levels were lower in group A than in group C (19.33 vs. 27.69 and 13.66 vs. 33.51). Although no difference was observed between group A and group C in preoperative saphenous vein diameter, postoperative saphenous vein diameter was smaller in group A (p = 0.008). Saphenous vein diameter was smaller on day 3 in group A than in group C (p = 0.043). CONCLUSION: Acupuncture is effective on acute pain and level of IL-23 in the treatment of endovenous ablation using cyanoacrylate.

Detection of residual varicose veins with near infrared light in the early period after varicose surgery and near infrared light assisted sclerotherapy.

OBJECTIVES: Varicose veins that cannot be seen with the naked eye can be easily detected with Near Infrared (NIR) light. With a minimally invasive procedure performed with NIR light guided, the need for reoperation is reduced, while optimal treatment of venous insufficiency and symptoms is provided. In this study, the detection of residual varicose veins after varicose vein surgery using NIR light and the results of treatment of sclerotherapy were investigated. METHODS: In this retrospective study, treatment and clinical outcomes of patients' who underwent NIR light-guided foam sclerotherapy for Clinical-Etiology-Anatomy-Pathophysiology (CEAP) (C1, C2) stage residual varicose veins after surgical varicose treatment between 2014 and 2017 were examined. Data of patients who underwent foam sclerotherapy with NIR light were collected and analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 151 patients and 171 lower extremity varicose veins were treated with surgery. 55 (35.7%) of the patients were male, and 96 (62.3%) were female. Their age ranges from 20 to 64, with an average age of 45.38. 4 (2.6%) of the patients had phlebectomy. 137 of patients (90.7%) had ligation of perforated veins, phlebectomy, and great saphenous vein (GSV) stripping, 10 of patients (6.6%) had GSV stripping, perforating vein ligation, phlebectomy, and small saphenous vein (SSV) surgery. No residual leakage was observed in the controls of GSV, SSV, and perforating veins by duplex ultrasonography (DUS). In the first month after varicose surgery, an average of 1.64 ± 1.05 sessions of sclerotherapy was applied to patients with CEAP C1, C2 stage residual varicose veins. 70 patients had one session of sclerotherapy, 37 patients had two sessions of sclerotherapy, 20 patients had three sessions of sclerotherapy, and 11 patients had four sessions of sclerotherapy administrated. The need for complementary therapy was required for all female patients; 13 of the male patients did not require complementary sclerotherapy. While single-session sclerotherapy was applied to most male patients (32 (58.18%), 10 (18.18%) patients received two sclerotherapy sessions. After completing sclerotherapy, 7 (4.63%) patients had superficial venous thrombosis, and 13 (8.60%) patients had hyperpigmentation. CONCLUSION: Surgical treatment is a safe and effective technique in venous insufficiency. Nevertheless, residual varicose veins may remain, and these can be detected noninvasively with NIR light. Foam sclerotherapy with NIR light is a minimally invasive and safe treatment method for small residual varicose veins after the operation. We think that sclerotherapy with NIR light as a complementary treatment is a practical, reliable, and demanding treatment for clinical improvement, especially in female patients.

Rivaroxaban for the prevention of venous thromboembolism after radiofrequency ablation of saphenous veins concomitant with miniphlebectomy, sclerotherapy, or no treatment of varicose tributaries.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy and safety of once-daily 10 mg rivaroxaban for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis after ClosureFast radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of saphenous veins. METHOD: The medical records of patients, who had a Caprini score of ≥3, underwent RFA, received prophylactic rivaroxaban for five days, and completed follow up at one month were reviewed for efficacy (a combination of endovenous heat-induced thrombosis [EHIT] grade of 2-4, any symptomatic or asymptomatic deep vein thrombosis [DVT], and symptomatic pulmonary embolism [PE]) and safety (a combination of major and clinically relevant non-major [CRNM] bleeding) outcomes. RESULTS: The results of RFA for 248 great saphenous and 24 small saphenous veins with the concomitant miniphlebectomy (63.8%) and sclerotherapy (16.5%) were analyzed. The primary efficacy outcome occurred in 5 of 218 (2.3%; 95%CI, 1.0-5.3%) patients: three EHITs and two symptomatic DVTs. The CRNM bleeding was reported in two patients (0.9%; 95% CI, 0.2-3.3%). No difference was observed in comparison with 79 similar patients who received 40 mg of subcutaneous enoxaparin during the same time period. CONCLUSION: Once-daily 10 mg rivaroxaban is suitable for VTE prophylaxis after RFA of saphenous veins.

Strategy to prevent nerve injury and deep vein thrombosis in radiofrequency segmental thermal ablation of the saphenous veins using a new objective pain scale.

OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the benefit of local anesthesia including tumescent anesthesia and active walking soon after surgery in preventing nerve injury and deep vein thrombosis caused during endovenous ablation. METHODS: Endovenous ablation was performed in 1334 consecutive patients. Varicectomy was performed using the stab avulsion technique. After surgery, patients were encouraged to walk 100-200 m inside the ward for 3-5 times/h. The pain was evaluated objectively using the Okamura pain scale and subjectively using the numerical rating scale. RESULTS: Stab avulsion was performed at 11.8 ± 8.0 sites and the mean operative time was 33.9 ± 15.2 min. The mean Okamura pain scale and numerical rating scale scores were 1.6 ± 1.3 and 3.0 ± 2.0, respectively. Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism were absent. The incidence of nerve injury was 0.3%. CONCLUSIONS: Endovenous ablation should be performed with the patients under local anesthesia to prevent nerve injury and deep vein thrombosis.

Cyanoacrylate Closure of Small Saphenous Vein Insufficiency.

BACKGROUND: As minimally invasive techniques were issued, endovenous thermal ablations have emerged. However, the thermal-associated complication has been reported in the treatment of small saphenous vein (SSV) insufficiency, such as sural nerve injury. Recently introduced cyanoacrylate closure (CAC) is a nonthermal modality, so this thermal-associated complication can be avoided. OBJECTIVE: This retrospective study analyzed the feasibility, safety, and 2-year results of CAC for treating SSV insufficiency, particularly the incidence of sural nerve injury. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred sixty-three SSV insufficiencies in 128 patients were treated with CAC were reviewed. Pain, venous severity, and quality of life (QoL) scores were evaluated. Postoperative duplex scanning also evaluated anatomical and clinical success rates. RESULTS: The mean patient age was 56.8 years. The initial technical success rate was 100%. The occlusion rate after 2 years was 96.3%. Pain, venous severity, and QoL scores were improved significantly from 2.4 to 0.0, 4.39 to 0.47, and 11.95 to 2.69, respectively, before and 2 years after CAC. No major complications were observed, such as sural nerve injury. CONCLUSION: Cyanoacrylate closure for the ablation of SSV insufficiency could be a great alternative to endothermal ablation with an excellent success rate and shorter procedure time.

Randomized controlled trial on Dryland And Thermal Aquatic standardized exercise protocol for chronic venous disease (DATA study).

OBJECTIVE: The present investigation aims to compare the effect of a standardized exercise protocol in thermal aquatic immersion vs dryland (DL) on patients with chronic venous disease (CVD). METHODS: Thirty-four patients with CVD (C3,Ep,As,Pr) were included in the study and randomly assigned to perform a standardized exercise protocol in a DL environment (DL group) or in a thermal water (TW group) from a natural hot spring at 33°C with a high mineral content. Leg volumetry, ankle range of motion (ROM), ultrasound-detected subcutaneous tissue and great saphenous vein (GSV) diameter were assessed. Quality of life was measured by VVSymQ and CIVIQ-20. RESULTS: After five TW sessions the average volume decrease was -432.4 ± 122.4 mL (P < .0001) in the right leg and -358.8 ± 109.3 mL (P < .0001) in the left. No significant volume change was reported at the end of the five sessions in DL. In TW, the subcutaneous tissue thickness significantly decreased (all assessment points P < .0001 right and P < .0001 left). In contrast, no significant changes were found in the DL group. The TW group showed a significant great saphenous vein caliber reduction, both in the right and left legs (6.2 ± 5.9%, P < .002; 6.1 ± 2.2%, P < .0001), whereas in the DL group no significant differences were found. After five sessions, ankle ROM significantly increased in both groups, both in dorsiflexion and in plantarflexion (right leg: TWdorsiflexionP < .0001, TWplantarflexionP < .0001; DLdorsiflexionP < .003, DLplantarflexionP < .007) (left leg: TWdorsiflexionP < .0001, TWplantarflexionP < .0001; DLdorsiflexionP < .006, DLplantarflexionP < .001). Only the TW group showed a linear correlation between volume and ankle ROM variation (right leg: R2 = 0.80, R2 = 0.75, P < .0001; left leg: R2 = 0.82, R2 = 0.81, P < .0001). The VVSymQ and CIVQ20 scores significantly improved in TW (P < .0001 and P < .0001, respectively), whereas DL showed a significant improvement only in CIVQ20 score (P < .02). CONCLUSIONS: Thermal aquatic immersion enhances the clinical benefits of a standardized exercise protocol for patients with CVD. Compared with the data available in the literature on non-TW, the present investigation shows a potential role of higher density types of water in lower limb volume control. Intense and rigorous data collection is needed to move from empirical evidence to evidence-based science in TW, a potentially very useful treatment modality for CVD.

Randomized clinical trial of radiofrequency-induced thermotherapy combined with transilluminated powered phlebectomy versus high ligation and stripping for the treatment of lower limb varicose veins.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency-induced thermotherapy (RFiTT) combined with transilluminated powered phlebectomy (TIPP) in the treatment of lower limb varicose veins (VVs) in comparison with high ligation and stripping (HLS) combined with TIPP. METHODS: The patients with lower limb VVs were randomly assigned to RFiTT combined with TIPP or HLS combined with TIPP. The primary end point was total closure rate of the great saphenous vein at 12 months. Secondary end points included Venous Clinical Severity Score and 14-item Chronic Venous Insufficiency Questionnaire score changes at 12 months and perioperative complications. RESULTS: The total closure rate of the great saphenous vein at 12 months was slightly lower in the RFiTT group (90.9% [90/99]) than in the HLS group (97.0% [98/101]) but not statistically significant (χ2 = 0.068; P = .08). Operation time, intraoperative blood loss, duration in hospital, duration in bed, and resumption of activities were statistically significantly better with RFiTT than with HLS. There were no significant differences between the groups in deep venous thrombosis, phlebitis, hematomas, pain, and infection. However, skin pigmentation and paresthesia were statistically significantly better with RFiTT than with HLS. At 12 months, both groups showed similar improvement from baseline in Venous Clinical Severity Score (1.28 ± 0.57 in the RFiTT group vs 1.33 ± 0.61 in the HLS group) and 14-item Chronic Venous Insufficiency Questionnaire score (67.32 ± 1.29 in the RFiTT group vs 67.45 ± 1.32 in the HLS group); however, neither group was superior to the other. CONCLUSIONS: RFiTT combined with TIPP is an effective treatment method for lower limb VVs and had a more satisfactory clinical outcome in surgical data, skin pigmentation, and paresthesia than HLS at the 12-month follow-up.

Systematic review of ambulatory selective variceal ablation under local anesthetic technique for the treatment of symptomatic varicose veins.

OBJECTIVE: The ambulatory selective variceal ablation under local anesthesia (ASVAL) technique subscribes to the "ascending" theory of varicose vein etiology, which recommends primary ambulatory phlebectomy as a treatment for tributary varicosities and truncal vein incompetence. This systematic review explores the efficacy and safety of the ASVAL technique for the treatment of symptomatic varicose veins. METHODS: A comprehensive search of the Medline and Embase databases and the Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials in May 2019 revealed 11 original articles that were qualitatively reviewed. The primary outcome was the absence from recurrent varicose veins at 1-year follow-up. Secondary outcomes were resolution of great saphenous vein (GSV) reflux on duplex ultrasound, change in GSV diameter, objective and subjective clinical improvement in chronic venous disease, and patient-reported outcome measures. RESULTS: A total of 2106 limbs underwent intervention in 1734 patients reported in two randomized controlled trials, one case control study, three cohort studies, and five case series. Varicosity recurrence at 1 year ranged from 0.5% to 13.5% in patients. Of 1622 limbs with diagnosed GSV incompetence before intervention, 1114 were competent at 1 year (mean, 68.2% [±12.62%]). All studies measuring GSV diameter reported statistically significant reductions in vein size. CONCLUSIONS: ASVAL may be considered as a minimally invasive treatment for early stages of chronic venous disease in the presence of truncal reflux. The evidence base should be strengthened by prospective randomized controlled trials that follow standardized procedures and report according to recognized measures of quality of life alongside clinical and hemodynamic data.

Pattern of thermal damage and tissue carbonisation from endovenous radiofrequency ablation catheter - Using an in vitro porcine liver model.

BACKGROUND: Successful endovenous thermoablation relies on transmural vein wall ablation. We investigated the pattern of thermal spread and tissue carbonisation from RadioFrequency-induced ThermoTherapy (RFiTT) at different powers and pull back methods, using a porcine liver model. METHODS: We used a previously validated in-vitro porcine liver model. Different powers from 5-25 W were used to administer 150 J. We compared continuous and pulsed energy delivery. Length, lateral spread, and total area of thermal damage, together with any tissue carbonisation, was measured using digital analysis software. RESULTS: All experiments used 150 J total energy. Total thermal damage area was smaller with lower power and pulsed energy. Continuous energy caused more tissue carbonisation than pulsed except at 25 W. CONCLUSION: Reduced thermal damage with lower power or pulsed energy results from cooling due to increased time of treatment. Increasing the power increases tissue carbonisation. Optimal treatment is determined by the highest power used continuously that does not cause tissue carbonisation.

Impact of lipid levels and high-intensity statins on vein graft patency after CABG: Midterm results of the ACTIVE trial.

BACKGROUND: High-dose atorvastatin did not improve 1-year vein graft patency in the recent Aggressive Cholesterol Therapy to Inhibit Vein Graft Events trial. However, it remains unknown whether high-intensity statins may impact graft disease in the years that follow. METHODS: In the trial, patients (N = 173) were randomized to receive atorvastatin 10 or 80 mg for 1 year after coronary bypass surgery (CABG). Beyond 1 year, the choice of statin was left to the patient's physician. In this study of participants who agreed to follow-up (N = 76), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels were measured and graft patency was assessed 3 years after surgery. RESULTS: The rate of vein graft disease 3 years after surgery was not significantly reduced with atorvastatin 80 mg during the first postoperative year or the use of open-label high-intensity statin thereafter (p = NS). However, a trend was observed between higher LDL levels during the first postoperative year and a greater incidence of vein graft disease at 3 years (p = .12). Among patients who had LDL levels more than 90 mg/dl in the first year after CABG, 38.5% had vein graft disease at 3 years, compared to 19.0% for those with LDL levels less than 90 mg/dl (p = .15). Higher mean LDL levels during the first postoperative year were associated with a higher rate of vein disease 3 years after surgery both at the graft level (p = .03) and at the patient level (p = .03) in multivariate analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Higher LDL levels during the first postoperative year were associated with significantly greater vein graft disease 3 years after CABG.

[Multilevel arterialization of the venous bed in treatment of critical lower limb ischaemia]. / Étazhnaia arterializatsiia venoznogo rusla v lechenii kriticheskoi ishemii nizhnikh konechnostei.

Presented herein is original experience in using a technique of arterialization in patients with critical lower limb ischaemia on the background of diffuse multilevel occlusive lesions of femoral, crural arteries and arteries of the foot in 214 patients. We used a new method of treatment by means of oxygenation of the sural group of muscles and the foot through the small saphenous vein and indirect communicating veins. This method does not require destruction of the valvular apparatus of the communicants themselves, promoting opening of previously not functioning ones, as well as appears to be a powerful stimulus for the development of collateral circulation of the extremity. Alterations introduced into the design characteristics of a valvulotome make it possible to avoid lateral injury of the venous wall in the area of confluence of tributaries, preventing incomplete resection of the valve. The method expands the boundaries of operability of patients with the absence of the receiving arterial bed of the calf and foot. It may be combined with arterial primary and repeat reconstructions in patients with depleted receiving channel of the calf as an effective additional path of outflow. It also makes it possible to lower the level of amputation in the developed necrosis of the distal part of the foot. Based on clinical laboratory and instrumental findings, the patients were diagnosed by the aetiological factor of the occlusive process and its extension, substantiating the indications for operative treatment with the use of one or another venous basin. Comparative assessment of reversion of arterial blood flow through the great saphenous vein, small saphenous vein, and posterior tibial vein, according to the findings of bioelectromagnetic diagnosis of reactivity of tissues demonstrated that the most effective method was that of arterialization thought the small saphenous vein. With the help of the questionnaire of quality of life in patients with performed arterialization of the calf and foot through the small saphenous vein for critical lower limb ischaemia we obtained 5-year remote results. Upon completion of this period, 87.3% of the limbs were saved and composite measures of the patients' quality of life proved to be high, ranging from 53 to 69 points.

Comparing local tumescent anesthesia and spinal anesthesia methods during and after endovenous radiofrequency ablation of great saphenous vein.

BACKGROUND: Local or spinal anesthesia methods can be used during radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the great saphenous vein. There is a gap in the literature regarding comparing and contrasting the side effects of the mentioned two methods. This study aims to retrospectively compare the spinal anesthesia method with the local tumescent anesthesia method during RFA of the great saphenous vein that also includes mini-phlebectomy. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent RFA and mini-phlebectomy divided in two groups according to the anesthesia applied method, i.e. spinal anesthesia combined with tumescent anesthesia versus local tumescent anesthesia. Pain scores, the time length of preparation interval of anesthesia and the operation time, anesthesia-related side effects such as headache, nausea-vomiting, urinary retention, quality of life scores, postoperative occlusion rates, and complications related to the intervention such as phlebitis, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) were analyzed and compared by Mann Whitney U test, Wilcoxon signed ranks test, and χ2 test. RESULTS: Between June 2015 and June 2019 a great saphenous vein RFA ablation was performed in 175 patients. A total of 103 limbs were performed under spinal anesthesia combined with tumescent anesthesia and a total of 72 limbs were performed under local tumescent anesthesia. Mini phlebectomy was applied to all patients. Pain scores of the spinal anesthesia group were lower than the other group, and there was a significant difference. There was no significant difference between the operation lengths of both groups, but the preparation phase of anesthesia was shorter in local tumescent anesthesia patients, and the difference was significant. Anesthesia related side effects such as headache, nausea-vomiting, and urinary retention showed a significant difference between the two groups, and they were lower in the local tumescent anesthesia group. Preoperative quality of life scores of both groups decreased postoperatively. The postoperative occlusion rate of group 1 was 96.1%, and group 2 was 100% at three months, but the difference was not significant. We encountered three cases of phlebitis, two cases of DVT and two cases of bruising in group 1, and one case of bruising in group 2. There was no postoperative paresis or paresthesia in either groups. CONCLUSIONS: This monocenter and retrospective report of 175 GSV RFA using tumescent local anesthesia or spinal anesthesia combined with local tumescent anesthesia demonstrated that both methods of anesthesia are effective. Although the pain scores are better with spinal anesthesia, the local tumescent anesthesia method is more efficient, requiring a shorter time, and is associated with fewer complications such as headache, nausea-vomiting, or urinary retention and deep venous thrombosis.