Vessel Recurrence

Recurrence of treated vessels has been estimated to occur at a rate of 20% to nearly 100% of treated leg telangiectasias at the 5-year followup [2]. The larger the postsclerosis intravascular thrombosis, the greater is the likelihood of recanalization of thrombus [4, 14]. Therefore, the most important factor in preventing recurrence is limiting intravascular thrombosis. Compression decreases the extent of thrombus formation thereby decreasing the risk for recanalization. Three weeks of continuous compression with class II (30–40 mmHg) graduated compression stockings gives the best results, but even 3 days of compression is beneficial [12]. Additionally, the importance of draining postsclerotherapy thrombi has been emphasized by Sigg, Pratt, and Hobbs [2]. Recanalization through a sclerosed telangiectasia is not common; histologic studies have demonstrated only fibrosis [2].