Summary

In correct indication, catheter-assisted foam sclerotherapy of the great saphenous vein (GSV) is a good alternative instead of surgical intervention. The necessity of anticoagulation with heparin after treatment is controversially discussed. Aim of our study was to evaluate efficacy and safety of a catheter-assisted sclerotherapy of GSV with 8 ml of microfoam without heparin. Patients, methods: In an open, prospective series we conducted catheter-assisted sclerotherapy in 7 female patients with an insufficiency of the GSV (Hach III-IV). Clinical assessment and ultrasound examination were carried after 24 hours, 1 week and 3 months. Results: In all patients a sufficient occlusion of GSV was seen after therapy. Adverse events were harmless, transient and self-limiting. Thrombembolic events did not appear. In conclusion of literature and data of our small collective, catheter-assisted sclerotherapy is a save and effective therapeutic option for therapy of insufficiency of GSV. Compared to endoluminal treatment with laser or radio frequency the effort of technology and time is limited. In our opinion, catheter-assisted sclerotherapy can be conducted without a postinterventional therapy with heparin if there are no further thrombembolic risk factors.