Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Introduction. Chronic venous disease of the lower extremities, particularly recurrent varicose vein disease (RVVD), is frequently complicated by venous leg ulcers. These lesions significantly impair quality of life and remain challenging to manage. Although minimally invasive endovenous techniques are increasingly applied in clinical practice, evidence regarding their role in C6 recurrent disease remains limited. Aim. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a combined minimally invasive approach for the treatment of active trophic ulcers in patients with recurrent varicose vein disease. Materials and methods. A retrospective cohort analysis included 41 patients with active venous ulcers undergoing secondary interventions for recurrent disease. Treatment consisted of individualized combinations of endovenous laser ablation or radiofrequency ablation, ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy, and miniphlebectomy. All patients received standardized compression therapy and local ulcer care using calcium alginate dressings. Clinical outcomes were assessed using VCSS (Venous Clinical Severity Score), VDS (Venous Disability Score), VDSS (Venous Disease Severity Score), and CIVIQ-14 (Chronic Venous Insufficiency Quality of Life Questionnaire-14) before and after treatment. Results. Significant improvements were observed across all evaluated parameters. VCSS decreased by 58.8%, VDS by 49.2%, and VDSS by 68.3%. Quality-of-life scores (CIVIQ-14) improved by 42.4%. All changes were statistically significant (p < 0.001), with large standardized effect sizes (Cohen’s dz from −1.31 to −1.75). The combined approach was associated with effective elimination of reflux sources and ulcer healing in the majority of cases. Conclusions. An anatomically personalized combined minimally invasive strategy appears to be a safe and effective option for managing venous leg ulcers in patients with recurrent varicose vein disease. Further prospective studies are warranted to confirm these findings and to support the development of standardized treatment protocols.
Source: Clinical and Preventive Medicine
Author: S. P. Shchukin
Institution: Bogomolets National Medical University
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7154991422