Mini-invasive treatment methods of spider veins: sclerotherapy and radiofrequency thermocoagulation

Abstract

ABSTRACT The aim: This study was conducted to compare the results of spider vein: sclerotherapy or radiofrequency thermocoagulation. Materials and methods: The study included 52 patients with spider veins, who were randomized into two treatment groups: sclerotherapy or radiofrequency thermocoagulation. Treatment outcomes were assessed using: a self-assessed questionnaire, CIVIQ 20 questionnaire, computer evaluation of images, registration relapses complications, negative manifestations, and intensity of the pain syndrome. Results: Both methods showed a statistically significant difference in the quality of life indicators before and one month after treatment (p<0.001 for both groups). Radiofrequency thermocoagulation showed a greater impact on the patient’s quality of life (p = 0.003). The average length of spider veins in the treatment area decreased the most with radiofrequency thermocoagulation (by 92.1%), slightly less after sclerotherapy (by 73.4%) (p < 0,01). Conclusions: Both treatments have shown good results for spider veins and were reasonably safe with few negative manifestations. Radiofrequency coagulation better eliminates small veins, less than 0.3 mm.