Effects of eccentric compression by a crossed-tape technique after endovenous laser ablation of the great saphenous vein: a randomized study.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effect of eccentric compression applied by a new crossed-tape technique on procedure-related pain occurrence after endovenous laser ablation (ELA) of the great saphenous vein (GSV).


METHODS
From April 2005 to June 2006, 200 consecutive ELA procedures were randomized to receive (group A: 100) or not (group B: 100) an eccentric compression applied in the medial aspect of the thigh. Patients were scheduled for a seven-day examination to assess the level of pain experienced. Pain intensity was measured using a visual analogue scale giving a numerical grade from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst pain ever).


RESULTS
The intensity of postoperative pain was significantly reduced (P < 0.001) in the eccentric compression group as compared with the non-compression one.


CONCLUSIONS
This technique of eccentric compression greatly reduces the intensity of postoperative pain after ELA of the GSV.
Lugli
M
M
Hesperia Hospital - CardioVascular Surgery, Via Arquà 80/A, Modena 41100, Italy. lugli@chirurgiavascolaremodena.it
Cogo
A
A
Guerzoni
S
S
Petti
A
A
Maleti
O
O
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010149:Postoperative Pain / Q000175:diagnosis; D012501:Saphenous Vein / Q000503:physiopathology*; D053828:Stockings, Compression; D013848:Thigh; D014648:Varicose Veins / Q000628:therapy*; D014689:Venous Insufficiency / Q000628:therapy*