Varicose veins: optimum compression after surgery and sclerotherapy.

Abstract

Graduated compression stockings are used in both surgical and non-surgical treatment of varicose veins. In a trial of high versus low compression stockings (40 mmHg vs 15 mmHg at ankle) after varicose vein surgery, both were equally effective in controlling bruising and thrombophlebitis, but low compression stockings proved to be more comfortable. In a further trial after sclerotherapy, high compression stockings alone produced comparable results to Elastocrepe bandages with stockings. It is concluded that after varicose vein surgery low compression stockings provide adequate support for the leg and that after sclerotherapy, bandaging is not required if a high compression stocking is used.