EFFICACY OF FOAM SCLEROTHERAPY IN MANAGEMENT OF SYMPTOMATIC VARICOSE VEINS OF LOWER EXTREMITIES - A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY.

Background: The prevalent issue of varicose veins in the lower extremities necessitates exploring effective and efficient treatment methods. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of foam sclerotherapy, focusing on improvements in the venous clinical severity score and the swift return to work posttreatment. Through this research, we intend to ascertain whether foam sclerotherapy can serve as a cost-effective, safe, and satisfactory alternative to traditional treatments. Methodology: A universal sampling method was implemented to select the sample size for the study. The study cohort consisted of 31 patients who visited the outpatient department and met the established inclusion criteria. These patients underwent comprehensive history evaluation and physical examinations. Subsequent to the preliminary evaluations, the patients were subjected to necessary hematological and biochemical analyses along with appropriate radiological investigations, including USG venous Doppler studies, dictated by clinical suspicions. All participants underwent USG-guided foam sclerotherapy and their progress was monitored based on predefined outcomes. Results: The study predominantly involved males aged between 30 and 60 years. A significant enhancement in patient satisfaction was documented, with notable reductions in ulcer size in 3 out of the 31 patients who initially presented with ulcers. Moreover, the therapy ensured a 100% reduction in reported pain and swelling, with no hospital stays extending beyond one day. Remarkably, 28 out of the 32 patients managed to resume their work within a span of less than 7 days, showcasing no side effects from the treatment. Conclusion: The data gleaned from the study underscore the considerable patient satisfaction derived from foam sclerotherapy, especially concerning alleviation in pain, swelling, and enhanced ulcer healing. Furthermore, patients reported a significant reduction in lower limb pigmentation following the therapy. Not only is foam sclerotherapy cost-effective and safe, but it also facilitates a quicker return to work coupled with shorter hospital stays, establishing itself as a potent alternative in managing symptomatic varicose veins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]