Compression Stockings after Endovenous Laser Ablation of the Great Saphenous Vein: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

Objectives To determine if the duration of wearing compression stockings after endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) of the great saphenous vein (GSV) has influence on pain and quality of life. Methods This was a prospective randomized controlled trial. Between December 2006 and February 2008, 109 consecutive patients with EVLA of the GSV were analyzed. Deep vein insufficiency, ulceration, more than one insufficient vein in one leg, and use of anticoagulants were exclusion criteria. Group A used compression stocking for 48 hours after therapy, group B for 7 days. Pain (visual analogue scale [VAS]) and quality of life (SF-36) were analyzed 48 hours, 1 week, and 6 weeks after therapy. Three months after treatment, duplex ultrasound imaging was performed to assess occlusion rates. Results Both groups (group A, n = 37; group B, n = 32) where comparable at baseline. After 1 week, there was a significant difference in pain (VAS score 3.7 [±2.1] vs. 2.0 [±1.1], p ≤ .001), and physical dysfunction (group A, 85.1 [±11.2] vs. group B, 95.7 [±10.1]; p