Recommendations for the medical management of chronic venous disease: The role of Micronized Purified Flavanoid Fraction (MPFF)

Superficial Venous Disease-An Updated Review

BACKGROUND

This review article provides an updated review of a relatively common pathology with various manifestations. Superficial venous diseases (SVDs) are a broad spectrum of venous vascular disease that predominantly affects the body's lower extremities. The most serious manifestation of this disease includes varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency, stasis dermatitis, venous ulcers, superficial venous thrombosis, reticular veins, and spider telangiectasias.

METHODS

The anatomy, pathophysiology, and risk factors of SVD were discussed during this review. The risk factors for developing SVD were related to race, age, sex, lifestyle, and certain genetic conditions as well as comorbid deep vein thrombosis. Various classification systems were listed, focusing on the most common one-the revised Clinical-Etiology-Anatomy-Pathophysiology classification. The clinical features including history and physical examination findings elicited in SVD were outlined.

RESULTS

Imaging modalities utilized in SVD were highlighted. Duplex ultrasound is the first line in evaluating SVD but magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography venography, plethysmography, and conventional venography are feasible options in the event of an ambiguous venous duplex ultrasound study. Treatment options highlighted in this review ranged from conservative treatment with compression stockings, which could be primary or adjunctive to pharmacologic topical and systemic agents such as azelaic acid, diuretics, plant extracts, medical foods, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, anticoagulants and skin substitutes for different stages of SVD. Interventional treatment modalities include thermal ablative techniques like radiofrequency ablationss, endovenous laser ablation, endovenous steam ablation, and endovenous microwave ablation as well as nonthermal strategies such as the Varithena (polidocanol microfoam) sclerotherapy, VenaSeal (cyanoacrylate) ablation, and Endovenous mechanochemical ablation. Surgical treatments are also available and include debridement, vein ligation, stripping, and skin grafting.

CONCLUSIONS

SVDs are prevalent and have varied manifestations predominantly in the lower extremities. Several studies highlight the growing clinical and financial burden of these diseases. This review provides an update on the pathophysiology, classification, clinical features, and imaging findings as well as the conservative, pharmacological, and interventional treatment options indicated for different SVD pathologies. It aims to expedite the timely deployment of therapies geared toward reducing the significant morbidity associated with SVD especially varicose veins, venous ulcers, and venous insufficiency, to improve the quality of life of these patients and prevent complications.

The 2023 Society for Vascular Surgery, American Venous Forum, and American Vein and Lymphatic Society clinical practice guidelines for the management of varicose veins of the lower extremities. Part II: Endorsed by the Society of Interventional Radiology and the Society for Vascular Medicine

The Society for Vascular Surgery, the American Venous Forum, and the American Vein and Lymphatic Society recently published Part I of the 2022 clinical practice guidelines on varicose veins. Recommendations were based on the latest scientific evidence researched following an independent systematic review and meta-analysis of five critical issues affecting the management of patients with lower extremity varicose veins, using the patients, interventions, comparators, and outcome system to answer critical questions. Part I discussed the role of duplex ultrasound scanning in the evaluation of varicose veins and treatment of superficial truncal reflux. Part II focuses on evidence supporting the prevention and management of varicose vein patients with compression, on treatment with drugs and nutritional supplements, on evaluation and treatment of varicose tributaries, on superficial venous aneurysms, and on the management of complications of varicose veins and their treatment. All guidelines were based on systematic reviews, and they were graded according to the level of evidence and the strength of recommendations, using the GRADE method. All ungraded Consensus Statements were supported by an extensive literature review and the unanimous agreement of an expert, multidisciplinary panel. Ungraded Good Practice Statements are recommendations that are supported only by indirect evidence. The topic, however, is usually noncontroversial and agreed upon by most stakeholders. The Implementation Remarks contain technical information that supports the implementation of specific recommendations. This comprehensive document includes a list of all recommendations (Parts I-II), ungraded consensus statements, implementation remarks, and best practice statements to aid practitioners with appropriate, up-to-date management of patients with lower extremity varicose veins.

Chronic venous insufficiency and venous leg ulcers: Aetiology, on the pathophysiology-based treatment

The chronic venous disease covers a wide spectrum of venous disorders that are characterized by severely impaired blood return that primarily affects veins in the lower extremities. Morphological and functional abnormalities of the venous system led to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), and present as leg heaviness/achiness, edema, telangiectasia, and varices. The term 'chronic venous insufficiency' (CVI) refers to a disease of greater severity. Venous dysfunction is associated with venous hypertension and is associated with venous reflux due to poorly functioning or incompetent venous valves, which ultimately reduces venous return, leading to a cascade of morphological, physiological, and histologic abnormalities such as blood pooling, hypoxia, inflammation, swelling, skin changes (lipodermatosclerosis), and in severe cases, venous leg ulcers (VLU). This review summarizes recent knowledge about the aetiology, risk factors, and pathophysiology of VLU and compared the possibilities of their treatment.

Varicose Veins: Approach, Assessment, and Management to the Patient with Chronic Venous Disease

Varicose veins are tortuous and dilated veins commonly seen in chronic venous disease. This article will review chronic venous disease, including its differential diagnosis, workup, and treatment.

Micronized purified flavonoid fraction-based conservative treatment of chronic venous disease in a real-world setting

Aims: To investigate the effectiveness and tolerability of adjunctive micronized purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF) in patients with chronic venous disease (CVD). Patients & methods: This observational study included adults (≥18 years) with clinical-etiology-anatomy-pathophysiology (CEAP) class C4 CVD for whom MPFF was indicated. Outcomes included changes in subcutaneous adipose thickness, venous clinical severity score, CVD symptoms (using a visual analogue scale) and tolerability. Results: Of 381 patients, 365 completed the study. After 6 months, subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness, venous clinical severity score and visual analogue scale scores significantly improved (all p < 0.001 vs baseline). No adverse drug reactions occurred. Conclusion: Adjunctive MPFF treatment improves skin and subcutaneous tissue conditions in CVD patients. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT04138576 (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Chronic venous insufficiency: a comprehensive review of management

Chronic venous insufficiency is an extensive progressive disease in need of public health attention. This insidious disease is a growing burden on patient quality of life and the health economy. Chronic venous insufficiency has become more pronounced in global populations, especially in regions exhibiting a higher rate of risk factors. It is critical for healthcare providers to recognise and intervene early to prevent ongoing and debilitating complications. This article provides a comprehensive review of chronic venous insufficiency outlining the anatomy, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, assessment and management options.

[Venous ulcus cruris-Surgical treatment]

Venous ulcus cruris is usually a chronic disease and an extreme burden for patients and their families. An analysis based on a random statutory health insurance sample of the AOK Hessen/KV Hessen estimated the number of affected people to be 400,000 in Germany. A venous ulcus cruris is always caused by an underlying chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). A spontaneous healing of this chronic disease without treatment is not to be expected. The conservative treatment includes an adequate compression treatment and exudate management. Surgical treatment is based on three pillars: an open surgical or endovenous approach to resolve the pathological venous reflux, uIcer surgery and in rare cases the various procedures of fascia surgery as well as defect coverage by a combination of negative pressure wound therapy and skin transplantation.

Management of chronic venous disease in general practice: a cross-sectional study of first line care in Belgium

BACKGROUND

The aim of this observational study is to examine how general practitioners (GP) in Belgium treat patients with Chronic Venous Disease (CVD).

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was carried out in Belgium by GPs who recruited 15 consecutive patients who were consulting them and suffered from CVD. By following a standardized questionnaire, they collected information on patient characteristics, risk factors, signs and symptoms, and how they were being managed.

RESULTS

253 GPs recruited 3055 patients, who were predominantly female (75.6%), with a mean age of 62.7 (SD 14.6). 20.1% of the population suffered from CVD without clinical signs (C0s). 8.7% of the population had advanced disease (C5-C6). Most common symptoms were respectively 'heavy legs' (43,7%), 'swollen feeling' (28%) and 'pain' (24,1%). The primary care physicians decided 95.3% of patients needed therapy of some sort. The most used treatment option used in 83.3% of subjects was the use of venoactive medication. Lifestyle advice was recommended in 64.5% of patients and recommendations regarding compression stockings was given in 46.9% of patients. Referral to a specialist was warranted for 24.5% of the population. Patients with a lower C-classification were more often treated conservatively compared to those with a higher C-classification.

CONCLUSIONS

Most patients were treated conservatively, which includes lifestyle changes, medication, and compression. Only one in four patients is referred to a vascular specialist and this referral is significantly positively correlated with the C-classification.

Clinical Efficacy of Conservative Treatment with Micronized Purified Flavonoid Fraction in Female Patients with Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) may be effectively managed with conservative treatment in certain patients. Treatment with venoactive drugs is common, but supportive data are limited. This study evaluated the clinical efficacy of micronized purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF) in women with PCS.

METHODS

In a single-blind, placebo-controlled study, women with duplex ultrasound diagnosis of pelvic varicose veins (PVV) and PCS were randomized to MPFF 1000 mg once daily or placebo for 2 months. Clinical manifestations of PCS were evaluated at baseline and end of treatment (M2) using three assessment tools: disease-specific quality of life (QoL) Pelvic Varicose Vein Questionnaire (PVVQ), Pelvic Venous Clinical Severity Score (PVCSS), and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for the main symptoms of the disease.

RESULTS

A total of 83 women were included, 42 received MPFF and 41 received placebo. In the MPFF group, the mean global PVVQ QoL index decreased significantly from 45.1 ± 14.7 at baseline to 36.6 ± 10.6 at M2 (mean change: 8.2 ± 10.4); no significant change was observed in the control group (mean change: - 0.3 ± 4.0). The between-group difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Compared with control, significant improvements were observed in all four QoL parameters (pain, physical, social, psychological, all P < 0.001). The mean PVCSS summary score decreased significantly by 3.4 ± 3.4 in the MPFF group (P < 0.001) compared with a non-significant change of - 0.2 ± 1.6 in the control group (between-group difference P < 0.001). In the MPFF group, improvements were statistically significant for 6 out of 10 clinical manifestations of PCS measured using the PVCSS, including pain (mean change from baseline: 0.5 ± 0.7) heaviness (0.4 ± 0.7), discomfort (0.6 ± 0.7) and tenderness (0.3 ± 0.5). No significant improvements were observed in the control group. When measured by VAS, between-group differences were statistically significant for the overall summary score (P < 0.001) and for 8 out of 10 PCS symptoms, including: pain (mean MPFF change from baseline: 2.0 ± 2.2), heaviness (1.3 ± 2.1), discomfort (1.5 ± 2.0), tenderness (0.9 ± 1.9), and edema (1.3 ± 2.1).

CONCLUSION

In women with PCS, conservative treatment with MPFF was associated with improved QoL and reduced symptom severity. MPFF may be considered an effective and safe treatment option for PCS in routine clinical practice.

Pharmacology of Diosmin, a Citrus Flavone Glycoside: An Updated Review

Flavonoids are phytochemicals that are well known for their beneficial pharmacological properties. Diosmin is a flavone glycoside derived from hesperidin, a flavanone abundantly found in citrus fruits. Daflon is an oral phlebotonic flavonoid combination containing diosmin and hesperidin (9:1) that is commonly used for the management of blood vessel disorders. After oral administration, diosmin is converted to diosmetin, which is subsequently absorbed and esterified into glucuronide conjugates that are excreted in the urine. Pharmacological effects of diosmin have been investigated in several in vitro and in vivo studies, and it was found to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, and antifibrotic effects in different disease models. Diosmin also demonstrated multiple desirable properties in several clinical studies. Moreover, toxicological studies showed that diosmin has a favorable safety profile. Accordingly, diosmin is a potential effective and safe treatment for many diseases. However, diosmin exhibits inhibitory effects on different metabolic enzymes. This encourages the investigation of its potential therapeutic effect and safety in different diseases in clinical trials, while taking potential interactions into consideration.

[Comparative efficacy of various methods of treatment of chronic venous oedema in real clinical practice]

AIM

The study was aimed at assessing efficacy and safety of micronized purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF, Detralex) in comprehensive treatment of chronic venous oedema induced by lower limb varicose veins.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed a post hoc analysis of the results of treatment of 708 patients included into the observational programme VAP-PRO-C3 (ClinicalTrials.gov. NCT03722836). These patients, depending on the type of treatment, were divided into 8 subgroups: MPFF (n=32); MPFF + compression (n=145); MPFF + compression + topical treatment (n=158); MPFF + compression + topical treatment + endovasal laser coagulation (n=197); MPFF + endovasal laser coagulation (n=3); MPFF + compression + endovasal laser coagulation (n=152), patients not receiving MPFF (n=16); MPFF + topical treatment (n=2). Due to paucity of the participants, from the subsequent analysis we excluded the groups MPFF + endovasal laser coagulation, patients not receiving MPFF (n=16) and MPFF + topical treatment. All further statistical data are shown for the remaining 687 patients.

RESULTS

Comparing the groups of patients undergoing conservative treatment alone and those subjected to surgical intervention demonstrated no statistically significant differences in dynamics of crural oedema. In both groups at every subsequent visit there was a statistically significant decrease in the ankle volume (p<0.001). During the whole period of follow up the crural volume in patients from the group of conservative treatment totally decreased by 0.201±0.158 L and in the operated patients by 0.236±0.189 L (p=0.021). The QOL assessed by the CIVIQ-14 global index score statistically significantly improved in the unoperated patients from 31.5±19.2 to 12.0±10.1 (p<0.001). In the operated patients, the baseline and final values of the QOL of the global index score amounted to 33.4±17.8 and 7.7±9.2, respectively (p<0.001). In the groups with and without topical treatment, the baseline values of the QOL assessed by CIVIQ-14 global index score amounted to 28.5±17.4 and 36.2±18.6, respectively. During the follow-up period, we observed statistically significant positive dynamics of all parameters of quality of life. The final visit demonstrated improvement of the CIVIQ-14 global index score to 9.4±9.2 in patients without topical treatment and 10.1±10.4 in those receiving topical treatment (p=0.367), with the mean value of this parameter during treatment in both groups decreased significantly (p<0.001). A statistically significant decrease in the ankle volume in both groups was registered at every visit, finally amounting to 0.223±0.166 L and 0.248±0.174 L (p=0.118) for patients not receiving and receiving topical treatment, respectively. In groups of patients not receiving and those receiving compression therapy, the baseline values of the QOL assessed by CIVIQ-14 global index score amounted to 21.4±14.2 and 33.1±18.5 (p<0.001), respectively. At the final visit, these indices statistically significantly (p<0.001) decreased to 7.3±9.1 and 9.9±9.9 (p=0.106). Compared with the baseline values, the ankle volume at the final visit in groups of patients with and without compression therapy statistically significantly decreased by 0.187±0.14 L and 0.238±0.17 L respectively (p=0.204). During the study, there were no adverse events related to the administration of MPFF and use of Detragel.

CONCLUSION

MPFF and Detragel appear to be effective and safe components of comprehensive conservative therapy of chronic oedema induced by primary varicose veins of lower extremities.

Understanding Chronic Venous Disease: A Critical Overview of Its Pathophysiology and Medical Management

Chronic venous disease (CVD) is a multifactorial condition affecting an important percentage of the global population. It ranges from mild clinical signs, such as telangiectasias or reticular veins, to severe manifestations, such as venous ulcerations. However, varicose veins (VVs) are the most common manifestation of CVD. The explicit mechanisms of the disease are not well-understood. It seems that genetics and a plethora of environmental agents play an important role in the development and progression of CVD. The exposure to these factors leads to altered hemodynamics of the venous system, described as ambulatory venous hypertension, therefore promoting microcirculatory changes, inflammatory responses, hypoxia, venous wall remodeling, and epigenetic variations, even with important systemic implications. Thus, a proper clinical management of patients with CVD is essential to prevent potential harms of the disease, which also entails a significant loss of the quality of life in these individuals. Hence, the aim of the present review is to collect the current knowledge of CVD, including its epidemiology, etiology, and risk factors, but emphasizing the pathophysiology and medical care of these patients, including clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatments. Furthermore, future directions will also be covered in this work in order to provide potential fields to explore in the context of CVD.

Determination of Diosmin in Pharmaceutical Products with Chemically Modified Voltammetric Sensors

In this paper, the electrochemical behavior of two types of sensors based on modified screen-printed electrodes (one screen-printed electrode based on carbon (SPCE) and another screen-printed electrode modified with Prussian Blue (PB/SPCE)) was studied with the aim of sensitive detection of diosmin, an active pharmaceutical compound from the class of flavonoids. The scan electron microscopy technique was used for the morphological characterization of PB/SPCE. The preliminary analysis assessed the electrochemical behavior of SPCE and PB/SPCE in KCl solution and in a double solution of potassium ferrocyanide-potassium chloride. It was shown that the active area of PB/SPCE is superior to the one of SPCE, the greater sensitivity being related with the presence of the electroactive modifier. Similarly, in the case of diosmin detection, the PB/SPCE sensor detect more sensitivity the diosmin due to the electrocatalytic effect of PB. From the study of the influence of reaction rate on the sensor's electrochemical response, it was shown that the detection process is controlled by the adsorption process, the degree of surface coverage with electroactive molecules being higher in the case of PB/SPCE. From the PB/SPCE calibration curve, it wasdetermined that it has high sensitivity and low detection and quantification limit values (limit of detection 5.22 × 10^-8 M). The applicability of the PB/SPCE sensor was confirmed by sensitive analysis of diosmin in pharmaceutical products. The voltammetric method is suitable for the detection and quantification of diosmin in pharmaceutical products. The method is simple, accurate, and quick and can be used in routine analysis in the examination of the quality of pharmaceutical products and other types of samples.

Micronized purified flavonoid fraction for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency, with a focus on postthrombotic syndrome: A narrative review

INTRODUCTION

Postthrombotic syndrome (PTS) is a form of secondary chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) that occurs after deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Effective treatments for PTS are lacking. Micronized purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF) is a venoactive drug used in the treatment of CVI.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether MPFF is a good candidate to explore as a therapeutic agent for PTS.

METHODS

We performed a narrative review in which we identified 14 systematic reviews, 33 randomized controlled trials, and 19 observational studies that discussed the use of MPFF in CVI, as well as studies that reported on the mechanistic action of MPFF in relation to the pathophysiology of PTS.

RESULTS

MPFF targets a number of pathophysiologic components of PTS. Based on animal models and human studies investigating objective vascular and lymphatic measures, MPFF promotes venous recanalization after DVT, decreases venous remodeling and reflux, inhibits inflammatory processes, improves venous tone and stasis, improves lymphatic circulation, improves capillary hyperpermeability, and decreases tissue hypoxia. Furthermore, MPFF shows promise in improving clinical manifestations, quality of life, and objective venous parameters of CVI. Studies suggest good patient acceptability and tolerability with the use of MPFF in CVI.

CONCLUSION

MPFF is a good candidate to explore as a potential therapy for PTS. Confirmatory high-quality studies are still needed to reinforce the evidence supporting the use of MPFF in CVI. Double-blind randomized controlled trials with clinical endpoints are needed to assess the clinical efficacy of MPFF in the treatment of PTS.

Evaluation of the Accuracy of a Video and AI Solution to Measure Lower Leg and Foot Volume

Background and Objectives

Peripheral edema, change in foot volume, is a marker of congestion which is regularly assessed in routine clinical care. A novel video and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based solution used to measure anatomical parameters, including volume and foot length, Heartfelt HF-1, is compared to the laboratory gold standard (water displacement) and a medical disposable measuring tape.

Design Setting Participants and Measurements

58 healthy volunteers were measured with the Heartfelt device; 22 were also measured with the water displacement method and 19 with the medical tape. Bland-Altman analysis was performed for both volumes and foot lengths. Left/right foot differences provided covariance-corrected standard error of measurement (ccSEM) and minimum detectable difference (MDD) for each measurement method.

Results

Heartfelt device measured volumes displayed excellent correlation to the gold standard (water displacement), with Bland-Altman bias of +32mL ±81mL (1 std.dev). Clinically important change in foot volume is approximately 13%. Water displacement yielded ccSEM of ± 32.1mL and MDD of 90mL (6.7% of average foot volume), while the Heartfelt device measurements yielded ccSEM of ±12.6mL and MDD of 35.3mL (2.6% of average foot volume). The majority of differences were attributable to manual positioning of the patient foot in the waterbath.

Conclusion

This study finds that in clinical and non-clinical settings, the Heartfelt device measures foot volume and length more precisely than either the water displacement technique or manual foot length measurements using a medical disposable tape, while having an excellent agreement with these methods.

[Pharmacological correction of total venous reflux in patients with varicose veins]

AIM

To evaluate the efficacy of a micronized purified flavonoid fraction in patients with primary venous disease. The study enrolled 31 patients, with varicose veins observed in a total of 47 lower extremities which were divided into 3 groups depending on the CEAP clinical class. The group of class C2 included 19 limbs, with the groups of C3 and C4 comprising 14 limbs each. The patients received a micronized purified flavonoid fraction (Detralex) in a daily dose of 1000 mg for 1 month. The venous function of the lower extremities was examined using venous photoplethysmography before and after the course of pharmacotherapy. Venous refilling time and venous half-refilling time were measured as indicators of total venous reflux. In the overall sample of patients with clinical class C2-C4, a significant increase in venous photoplethysmography parameters was found after the course of administration of the micronized purified flavonoid fraction. Thus, the venous refilling time increased from 15.5 (11; 19) s to 19.3 (13; 25) s, the venous half-refilling time increased from 6.5 (5; 7) s to 7.5 (5; 9) s. At the same time, in the group of patients with clinical class C2 and C3, a significant increase in the venous refilling time was found, and in patients with C4, the increase was not significant. There was an inverse correlation between the increase in venous refilling time after drug exposure and the clinical class of venous insufficiency according to the CEAP, as well as the patient's age. Thus, the administration of the micronized purified flavonoid fraction for 1 month in primary venous disease led to a decrease in the total venous reflux. The effect of the micronized purified flavonoid fraction on the total venous reflux was higher in younger patients and in patients with a lower clinical class of the disease.

Management of Lower Extremity Pain from Chronic Venous Insufficiency: A Comprehensive Review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Chronic venous insufficiency is found to some extent in a large proportion of the world's population, especially in the elderly and obese. Despite its prevalence, little research has been pursued into this pathology when compared to similarly common conditions. Pain is often the presenting symptom of chronic venous insufficiency and has significant deleterious effects on quality of life. This manuscript will describe the development of pain in chronic venous insufficiency, and will also review both traditional methods of pain management and novel advances in both medical and surgical therapy for this disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

Pain in chronic venous insufficiency is a common complication which remains poorly correlated in recent studies with the clinically observable extent of disease. Although lifestyle modification remains the foundation of treatment for pain associated with chronic venous sufficiency, compression devices and various pharmacologic agents have emerged as safe and effective treatments for pain in these patients. In patients for whom these measures are insufficient, recently developed minimally invasive vascular surgical techniques have been shown to reduce postsurgical complications and recovery time, although additional research is necessary to characterize long-term outcomes of these procedures. This review discusses the latest findings concerning the pathophysiology of pain in chronic venous insufficiency, conservative and medical management, and surgical strategies for pain relief, including minimally invasive treatment strategies.

Efficacy of two micronized purified flavonoid fraction dosing regimens in the pelvic venous pain relief

BACKGROUND

The venoactive drug treatment regimen for pelvic venous disorders (PeVDs) is not finally established. The study aimed at assessing the efficacy of micronized purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF) in a standard or double dose in the pelvic venous pain (PVP) relief in PeVD.

METHODS

We analyzed the treatment efficacy in 125 female patients with PeVD, who were allocated to two groups with MPFF treatment in a regular dose of 1000 mg once daily (OD) for 2 months (N.=65; group 1) or double dose of 1000 mg twice daily for 1 month and then 1000 mg OD for 1 month (N.=60; group 2). Patients underwent clinical examination along with an assessment of the PVP severity using the visual analogue scale (VAS) ranged from 0 to 10 scores, transvaginal and transabdominal duplex ultrasound scanning (DUS), and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) of the pelvic veins with in vivo-labelled red blood cells (RBCs). The groups were different at baseline in the PVP severity (3.4±1.2 vs. 7.3±0.5 scores in groups 1 and 2, accordingly; P=0.012). DUS and SPECT were used to evaluate diameters of gonadal, parametrial, and uterine veins, to assess the presence of reflux in them, to measure blood flow velocity in the internal iliac veins (V<inf>lin IIV</inf>), and to calculate the coefficient of pelvic venous congestion (C<inf>PVC</inf>).

RESULTS

The treatment was associated with a significant reduction in the PVP score from 3.4±1.2 to 1.2±0.2 (P=0.03) when using the standard dose for 2 months and from 7.3±0.5 to 0.8±0.1 (P=0.001) when using the double dose in the 1^st month. The PVP relief was achieved on average after 13.7±0.6 and 3.1±0.8 days in groups 1 and 2, accordingly (P=0.0001 between the groups). At month 2, the C<inf>PVC</inf> reduction was found to be significantly greater in group 2 compared to group 1 (46.6% vs. 25%; P=0.018). Side effects (gastralgia, flatulence) were reported by only 2 (3.3%) patients of group 2.

CONCLUSIONS

The venoactive drug therapy with MPFF is an effective and safe option for the PVP relief in female patients with PeVD. The use of double dose in the 1^st month seems to be appropriate in patients with greater PVP severity but is associated with an increased rate of side effects.

Strategies and challenges in the treatment of chronic venous leg ulcers

Evaluating patients with chronic venous leg ulcers (CVLUs) is essential to find the underlying etiology. The basic tenets in managing CVLUs are to remove the etiological causes, to address systemic and metabolic conditions, to examine the ulcers and artery pulses, and to control wound infection with debridement and eliminating excessive pressure on the wound. The first-line treatments of CVLUs remain wound care, debridement, bed rest with leg elevation, and compression. Evidence to support the efficacy of silver-based dressings in healing CVLUs is unavailable. Hydrogen peroxide is harmful to the growth of granulation tissue in the wound. Surgery options include a high ligation with or without stripping or ablation of the GSVs depending on venous reflux or insufficiency. Yet, not all CVLUs are candidates for surgical treatment because of comorbidities. When standard care of wound for 4 wk failed to heal CVLUs effectively, use of advanced wound care should be considered based on the available evidence. Negative pressure wound therapy facilitates granulation tissue development, thereby helping closure of CVLUs. Autologous split-thickness skin grafting is still the gold standard approach to close huge CVLUs. Hair punch graft appears to have a better result than traditional hairless punch graft for CVLUs. Application of adipose tissue or placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells is a promising therapy for wound healing. Autologous platelet-rich plasma provides an alternative strategy for surgery for safe and natural healing of the ulcer. The confirmative efficacy of current advanced ulcer therapies needs more robust evidence.

Strategies and challenges in the treatment of chronic venous leg ulcers

Evaluating patients with chronic venous leg ulcers (CVLUs) is essential to find the underlying etiology. The basic tenets in managing CVLUs are to remove the etiological causes, to address systemic and metabolic conditions, to examine the ulcers and artery pulses, and to control wound infection with debridement and eliminating excessive pressure on the wound. The first-line treatments of CVLUs remain wound care, debridement, bed rest with leg elevation, and compression. Evidence to support the efficacy of silver-based dressings in healing CVLUs is unavailable. Hydrogen peroxide is harmful to the growth of granulation tissue in the wound. Surgery options include a high ligation with or without stripping or ablation of the GSVs depending on venous reflux or insufficiency. Yet, not all CVLUs are candidates for surgical treatment because of comorbidities. When standard care of wound for 4 wk failed to heal CVLUs effectively, use of advanced wound care should be considered based on the available evidence. Negative pressure wound therapy facilitates granulation tissue development, thereby helping closure of CVLUs. Autologous split-thickness skin grafting is still the gold standard approach to close huge CVLUs. Hair punch graft appears to have a better result than traditional hairless punch graft for CVLUs. Application of adipose tissue or placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells is a promising therapy for wound healing. Autologous platelet-rich plasma provides an alternative strategy for surgery for safe and natural healing of the ulcer. The confirmative efficacy of current advanced ulcer therapies needs more robust evidence.

[Efficacy of micronized purified flavonoid fraction in treatment of chronic venous oedema]

AIM

The purpose of the study was to assess efficacy and safety of using in real clinical practice micronized purified flavonoid fraction (Detralex) in patients with chronic venous oedema.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study enrolled a total of 708 patients presenting with chronic venous disease, belonging to C3EpAsPr according to the CEAP classification (chronic venous oedema), who. depending on the accepted clinical practice by expert physicians were prescribed compression and phlebotropic therapy, as well as undergoing surgical interventions. The main criteria for efficacy of the micronized purified flavonoid fraction included the dynamics of chronic venous oedema, vein-specific symptoms, as well as the main parameters of quality of life. Assessment was made using visual analogue scales, the vein-specific questionnaire CIVIQ-14, and the method of discs for measuring the volume of the crus.

RESULTS

The obtained findings demonstrated significant positive dynamics of the main vein-specific symptoms assessed by a visual analogue scale. When comparing between the visits of recruitment into the study and its termination the feeling of heaviness in calves decreased form 5.38±2.19 cm to 1.56±1.56 cm (p<0.001), pain in the calf diminished from 4.24±3.39 cm to 1.12±1.37 cm (p<0.001), feeling of oedema dropped from 5.68±2.44 cm to 1.38±1.59 cm (p<0.001), severity of nocturnal cramps fell from 2.46±2.30 cm to 0.43±1.01 cm (p<0.001), and intensity of skin inching from 1.46±2.06 cm to 0.43±1.01 cm (p<0.001). Positive dynamics of venous-specific symptoms appeared to be accompanied by significant improvement of all dimensions of quality of life according to the CIVIQ-14 scale: by the pain scale from 41.0±19.1% to 12.8±11.6% (p<0.001), by the physical condition scale - from 31.6±23.8% to 11.1±15.4% (p<0.001), by the psychological state scale - from 24.5±21.1% to 5.7±9.0% (p<0.001). The global index of quality of life also improved significantly from 32.4±18.5% to 9.9±9.9% (p<0.001). The results of the intervention along all the examined parameters (external appearance, possibility of wearing various clothes and increasing the quality of the self-performed work, to improve both interactions with surrounding people and the social activity and rest) turned out better than expectations form an intervention. The volume of the crus as the main criterion over the period of follow up averagely by the group decreased from 3.07±0.84 to 2.78±0.80 litres (p<0.001). A significant decrease in the calf volume from 3.03±0.87 to 2.77±0.85 litres was observed in 288 patients who during the follow up period were not subjected to surgical interventions, with no significant differences in the dynamics of chronic venous oedema revealed between the operated patients and those having received conservative treatment alone.

DISCUSSION

According to a meta-analysis, the micronized purified flavonoid fraction (Detralex) turned out to possess better parameters in relation to therapy of chronic venous oedema as compared with other phlebotropic agents. Therefore, it appears absolutely logical to predominantly use the micronized purified flavonoid fraction in real clinical practice in patients with the CEAP C3 clinical class, which was registered in our study. An important result was also the fact that within the specified terms of follow up surgical intervention demonstrated no significant advantage over conservative therapy alone in treatment of chronic venous oedema. Moreover, conservative treatment in the form of a combination of compression and phlebotropic therapy demonstrated a dynamic decrease in the volume of the affected extremity with a probable transition of the CEAP C3 clinical class to C2.

CONCLUSION

The micronized purified flavonoid fraction (Detralex) at a standard daily dose of 1000 mg in a combination with compression therapy irrespective of the surgical intervention performed resulted in a significant dynamic decrease in the volume of the calf in patients with chronic diseases of lower limb veins (C3EpAsPr according to the CEAP classification). An anti-oedematous effect of the micronized purified flavonoid fraction (Detralex) in a combination with compression manifests itself during the entire period of treatment.

Venous Ablation

Chronic venous insufficiency is a common and a highly prevalent vascular disorder, that occurs as a result of venous reflux owing to defective venous valves, which in turn causes venous hypertension with significant symptom burden that can interfere with quality of life. Therapeutic strategy involves lowering the venous pressure by lifestyle changes, compression therapy, and conventional catheter-based thermal ablation and novel nonthermal, nontumescent techniques of ablating the affected veins.

Citrus Flavones: An Update on Sources, Biological Functions, and Health Promoting Properties

Citrus spp. are among the most widespread plants cultivated worldwide and every year millions of tons of fruit, juices, or processed compounds are produced and consumed, representing one of the main sources of nutrients in human diet. Among these, the flavonoids play a key role in providing a wide range of health beneficial effects. Apigenin, diosmetin, luteolin, acacetin, chrysoeriol, and their respective glycosides, that occur in concentrations up to 60 mg/L, are the most common flavones found in Citrus fruits and juices. The unique characteristics of their basic skeleton and the nature and position of the substituents have attracted and stimulated vigorous investigations as a consequence of an enormous biological potential, that manifests itself as (among other properties) antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities. This review analyzes the biochemical, pharmacological, and biological properties of Citrus flavones, emphasizing their occurrence in Citrus spp. fruits and juices, on their bioavailability, and their ability to modulate signal cascades and key metabolic enzymes both in vitro and in vivo. Electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and SciFinder were used to investigate recent published articles on Citrus spp. in terms of components and bioactivity potentials.

Venoprotective drugs in pigmented purpuric dermatoses: A case report

Pigmented purpuric dermatoses (PPD) or capillaritis represent a benign condition, presenting with extravasation of erythrocytes in the skin and prominent hemosiderin deposition. The eruption runs a chronic relapsing course and is resistant to therapy. Capillary fragility, cellular immunity, and microvascular inflammation play important roles in the pathogenesis of PPD. Bioflavonoids, currently used as venoprotective agents for the management of chronic venous insufficiency, have been shown to reduce capillary fragility and permeability by inhibiting endothelial cell activation and modulating the leukocyte-endothelium interaction. We report a case of PPD with dramatic improvement consequent to a therapy with a fixed dose combination containing flavonoids like diosmin, hesperidin, and Euphorbia prostata extract along with calcium dobesilate.

Global guidelines trends and controversies in lower limb venous and lymphatic disease: Narrative literature revision and experts' opinions following the vWINter international meeting in Phlebology, Lymphology & Aesthetics, 23-25 January 2019

Guidelines are fundamental in addressing everyday clinical indications and in reporting the current evidence-based data of related scientific investigations. At the same time, a spatial and temporal issue can limit their value. Indeed, variability in the recommendations can be found both among the same nation different scientific societies and among different nations/continents. On the other side, Garcia already published in 2014 data showing how, after three years in average, one out of five recommendations gets outdated (Martinez Garcia LM, Sanabria AJ, Garcia Alvarez E, et al. The validity of recommendations from clinical guidelines: a survival analysis. CMAJ 2014;186(16):1211–1219). The present document reports a narrative literature revision on the major international recommendations in lower limb venous and lymphatic disease management, focusing on the different countries’ guidelines, trends and controversies from all the continents, while identifying new evidence-based data potentially influencing future guidelines. World renowned experts’ opinions are also provided. The document has been written following the recorded round tables scientific discussions held at the vWINter international meeting (22–26 January 2019; Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy) and the pre- and post-meeting literature search performed by the leading experts.

Evaluation and Management of Chronic Venous Disease Using the Foundation of CEAP

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW

Venous disease is common. Depending on the population studied, the prevalence may be as high as 80%. Significant chronic venous disease with venous ulcers or trophic skin changes is reported to affect 1-10% of the population. A systematic assessment of the clinical findings associated with chronic venous disease will facilitate appropriate imaging. Based on imaging and assessment, patients with reflux or obstruction can be recommended proper medical and endovascular or surgical management.

RECENT FINDINGS

Many types of endovascular management are available to treat reflux and eliminate varicose veins and tributaries. More recently adopted non-thermal non-tumescent techniques have been shown to be comparable with more widely performed laser or radiofrequency ablation techniques. A thorough clinical assessment, appropriate duplex ultrasound imaging, and use of advanced imaging when needed will allow clinicians to optimize therapy for patients with chronic venous disease based on the etiology, anatomy involved, and the pathophysiology.

Evaluation of the Use of Compressive Stockings Impregnated With Hesperetin-Based Nanocapsules in the Healing of Venous Ulcers: A Case Report

Venous ulcers are a more severe complication of chronic venous insufficiency, significantly compromising patient quality of life (QoL). Compressive stockings are still the gold standard treatment method with alternative therapies currently being evaluated. In this perspective, we investigate the influence of compressive stockings impregnated with hesperetin-based nanocapsules in the healing process of venous ulcers. Compressive stockings impregnated with hesperetin-based nanocapsules were applied to a consenting patient for 6 months following all relevant ethical principles for patient studies. The patient was evaluated at baseline (T0), 3 months (T3), and 6 months (T6), using photographic register (healing) probes to measure skin melanin, erythema and hydration parameters, and venous diameters, followed by questionnaires regarding QoL and pain perception. Healing was observed at the 3-month time point and with 91.6% and 93.1% of retraction area in larger ulcers of the right leg and lateral portion of the left leg, respectively. The deepest ulcer in a medial portion of the left leg healed 47.3%. A reduction of all measured skin parameters was observed, indicating a possible hesperetin effect. The scores of QoL and pain were, respectively, in the ranges of 91.6 to 31.2 and 7 to 0. Reduction in venous diameters also indicates healing function. These preliminary findings suggest that compressive stockings impregnated with hesperetin nanocapsules enhance venous ulcer healing. Further clinical trial controlled by placebo, involving a greater number of patients, is required to confirm the findings of this case report.

[Treatment of patients with lower limb varicose veins disease]

Modern data on the prevalence and pathophysiology of lower limb varicose disease are presented. The results of studies of modern approaches to the surgical correction of this state are demonstrated. Conclusions about the unresolved number of problems.

Effectiveness and safety of micronized purified flavonoid fraction for the treatment of concomitant varicose veins of the pelvis and lower extremities

OBJECTIVE

Concomitant varicose veins of the pelvis (VVP) and lower extremities (VVLE) frequently coexist. This study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of micronized purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF) in the treatment of patients with both conditions.

METHODS

Female outpatients with concomitant VVP and VVLE received MPFF 1000 mg once daily for 2 months (Group 1), or 1000 mg twice daily for 1 month followed by 1000 mg once daily for 1 month (Group 2), based on pelvic pain intensity. Change in pain intensity during treatment was evaluated on a 10 cm visual analog scale. All patients underwent transvaginal and transabdominal duplex ultrasound scanning, radionuclide phlebography of the lower extremities, and emission computer tomography of the pelvic veins at inclusion and end of treatment.

RESULTS

In Group 1 (N = 35), MPFF was associated with a twofold reduction in pain syndrome severity (pelvic, perineal and lower leg pain) in all patients after 1 month, and a reduction in chronic pelvic pain (CPP) from 3.4 ± 1.2 to 0.83 ± 0.18 cm at 2 months. Leg pain significantly decreased from 2.8 ± 0.6 at baseline to 0.94 ± 0.11 after 2 months. In Group 2 (N = 30), MPFF decreased CPP severity from 6.3 ± 0.8 to 1.2 ± 0.12, perineal pain from 3.6 ± 0.9 to 0.88 ± 0.22 and leg pain from 4.6 ± 0.5 to 0.9 ± 0.1. Radionuclide phlebography confirmed the clinical improvement in both treatment groups, with a substantial increase in linear blood flow velocity in the internal iliac veins (∼10% in Group 1 and 35% in Group 2) and a reduction in mean transit times of the radiopharmaceutical. MPFF also reduced blood stasis in the pelvic venous plexuses. Gastralgias were reported in two patients but resolved rapidly and did not lead to treatment withdrawal.

CONCLUSION

Phlebotropic treatment with MPFF is an effective and safe method of conservative therapy in patients with concomitant VVP and VVLE.

The Seriousness of Chronic Venous Disease: A Review of Real-World Evidence

Chronic venous disease (CVD) is a prevalent condition that tends to worsen with age. Patients initially seek treatment to relieve symptoms of leg pain, discomfort, heaviness and swelling, all of which impact their quality of life. As the disease increases in severity to include varicose veins, skin changes, and venous ulcer, the demand for treatment increases while the quality of life further diminishes. The prevalence of CVD is highest in Western countries where it already consumes up to 2% of healthcare budgets. With the aging of the global population, the prevalences of CVD and severe CVD are projected to increase substantially, foretelling unsustainably large increases in the healthcare resources and costs needed to treat CVD patients in the coming decades. Effective venoactive drug treatments and ablation procedures are available that provide symptom relief, improve quality of life, slow disease progression, and promote ulcer healing. In addition, venoactive drug treatments may be highly cost-effective. However, there is evidence that physician awareness of CVD is suboptimal and that many patients with CVD are not being treated or referred to specialists according to established guidelines. To decrease this treatment gap and prevent unnecessary disease progression, international guidelines are available to help physicians consider CVD treatment options and refer patients when warranted. Improved disease awareness and appropriate early treatment may help reduce the coming burden of CVD.Funding: Servier.

Scientific Papers and Patents on Substances with Unproven Effects. Part 2

Several examples are discussed in this review, where substances without proven effects were proposed for practical use within the scope of evidence-based medicines. The following is discussed here: generalizations of the hormesis concept and its use in support of homeopathy; phytoestrogens and soy products potentially having feminizing effects; glycosaminoglycans for the treatment of osteoarthritis and possibilities of their replacement by diet modifications; flavonoids recommended for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins; acetylcysteine as a mucolytic agent and its questionable efficiency especially by an oral intake; stem cells and cell therapies. In conclusion, placebo therapies can be beneficial and ethically justifiable but it is not a sufficient reason to publish biased information. Importantly, placebo must be devoid of adverse effects, otherwise, it is named pseudo-placebo. Therapeutic methods with unproven effects should be tested in high-quality research shielded from the funding bias. Some issues discussed in this review are not entirely clear, and the arguments provided here can initiate a constructive discussion.

Comparative Bioavailability of Two Diosmin Formulations after Oral Administration to Healthy Volunteers

Diosmin is a flavonoid commonly found in citrus fruits, largely used as adjuvant treatment for circulatory disorders, including chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and hemorrhoids. Following oral administration, diosmin is not directly absorbed but must first be hydrolyzed into its aglycone, diosmetin, which is then absorbed into the systemic circulation. The aim of the current cross-over clinical study was to assess the pharmacokinetic profile of µSmin^® Plus, a micronized diosmin flavonoid complex standardized in diosmin and formulated with a buffering agent (tested formulation). The study compared this to unformulated micronized diosmin (reference), in 16 healthy volunteers. Plasma samples were analyzed by HPLC-MS and plasma diosmetin concentration was measured after deconjugation with β-glucuronidase. For the tested formulation area under the curve (AUC_0-t), and maximum plasma and time concentration (C_max; t_max) were found to be 298.4 ± 163.7, 50.3 ± 22.6 and 2.2 ± 2.9, respectively. AUC_0-t and C_max of the reference were 31.9 ± 100.4 and 2.4 ± 1.9, respectively. The tested formulation showed higher plasmatic concentrations of diosmetin in comparison to those obtained after the administration of unformulated micronized diosmin. The relative bioavailability was 9.4 greater for the tested formulation than in micronized diosmin. In conclusion, our data indicate that µSmin^® Plus was rapidly and well absorbed into systemic circulation and may therefore be ideally suitable to deliver diosmin in human interventional trials.

Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Chronic Venous Disease and Implications for Venoactive Drug Therapy

Chronic venous disease (CVD) is a common pathology, with significant physical and psychological impacts for patients and high economic costs for national healthcare systems. Throughout the last decades, several risk factors for this condition have been identified, but only recently, have the roles of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction been properly assessed. Although still incompletely understood, current knowledge of the pathophysiological mechanisms of CVD reveals several potential targets and strategies for therapeutic intervention, some of which are addressable by currently available venoactive drugs. The roles of these drugs in the clinical improvement of venous tone and contractility, reduction of edema and inflammation, as well as in improved microcirculation and venous ulcer healing have been studied extensively, with favorable results reported in the literature. Here, we aim to review these pathophysiological mechanisms and their implications regarding currently available venoactive drug therapies.

Symptoms Associated With Chronic Venous Disease in Response to a Cooling Treatment Compared to Placebo: A Randomized Clinical Trial

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of a self-administered cooling treatment on clinically meaningful differences (CMDs) in symptom changes in patients with chronic venous disease.

DESIGN

Blinded, prospective, randomized controlled trial.

SUBJECTS AND SETTING

Two hundred seventy-six community-dwelling adults 21 years and older with skin changes and/or a healed venous leg ulcer (Clinical-Etiologic-Anatomic-Pathologic [CEAP] 4 and 5 classification) completed the 6-month active treatment period.

METHODS

Participants were recruited from wound and medicine clinics and from the general population through referrals or advertisements. Participants were randomly allocated to a sham control cuff or interventional cooling cuff group. Demographic and symptom-specific data were collected at baseline and at months 1, 3, and 6 with the 11-item symptom Venous Insufficiency Epidemiological and Economic Study Quality of Life/Symptom (VEINES QOL/Sym) questionnaire subscale for heavy legs, aching legs, swelling, night cramps, heating or burning sensation, restless legs, throbbing, itching, tingling sensation (pins and needles), pain, and irritability. Participants in the intervention group received a cooling gel cuff and those in the control group received a cotton-filled cuff to be place around the most affected lower leg during leg elevation. Both groups received standard of care for their chronic venous disease with compression wraps and skin hygiene. Dosing consisted of daily 30-minute treatment for 1 month, twice weekly for 2 months, and then thrice weekly for 3 months. To analyze and compare data, a mixed percentage clinically meaningful percentage change was used to assess CMDs in symptoms between groups for treatment modality, sex, and age group.

RESULTS

All symptoms showed improvement, with throbbing, aching, itching, and pain demonstrating the greatest CMD in response to the cooling treatment. For throbbing and aching, similar improvements were noted in response to cooling; 50% in the cooling group showed improvement, whereas 60% in both groups responded favorably to pain. More than 50% of females and males reported improvements in throbbing; both males and females reported 60% improvements in pain in response to cooling. In contrast, far fewer females reported worsening of aching in the treatment group as compared to male participants (8% vs 20%). Age differences were noted for throbbing in the younger group (<65 years of age); older individuals 65 years or older saw CMDs in aching in response to cooling.

CONCLUSIONS

Of the 11 symptoms, aching, throbbing, itching, and pain had greater clinically meaningful improvements in response to a cooling cuff applied to lower leg skin affected by chronic venous disease. These CMDs inform evidence-based practice by enhancing clinician understanding of which symptoms, physical, physiological, and behavioral outcomes, respond to treatment change in a meaningful way for the patient.

Die chronische venöse Insuffizienz - Eine Zusammenfassung der Pathophysiologie, Diagnostik und Therapie

Die chronische Venenerkrankung ist eine weit verbreitete Krankheit, die in späteren Stadien mit einer Vielzahl an Symptomen, aber auch Komplikationen wie dem Ulcus cruris, einhergeht. Dies wiederum hat weitreichende Auswirkungen auf die Lebensqualität der Patienten wie auch auf das Gesundheitssystem. Für die Diagnostik der chronischen Venenerkrankungen steht eine Auswahl an Verfahren zur Verfügung, wobei sich die farbkodierte Duplexsonographie als Goldstandard etabliert hat. Im Bereich der Therapie kam es in den letzten Jahrzehnten zu großen Fortschritten, sodass heute auch Alternativen zum klassischen Stripping durch die endoluminalen Verfahren zur Verfügung stehen. Die Wahl der Therapieoption ist jedoch weiterhin stark abhängig von mehreren Faktoren, unter anderem von den anatomischen Gegebenheiten und dem Krankheitsstadium. Im folgenden Artikel werden die Anatomie und Pathophysiologie, sowie die aktuellen Standards der Diagnostik und Therapie zusammengefasst.

Chronic venous insufficiency - a review of pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment

Chronic venous disease is a common disorder associated with a variety of symptoms in later disease stages but also with complications such as venous leg ulcer. This, in turn, has substantial socioeconomic effects and significantly impacts patients' quality of life. While there are a number of diagnostic procedures available, color-flow duplex ultrasound has become the gold standard. As regards therapeutic options, major advances have been made in recent decades. Today, there are alternatives to saphenofemoral ligation and stripping of the great saphenous vein, including endovenous thermal ablation techniques. However, treatment selection continues to depend on many factors such as individual anatomical circumstances and disease stage. The following article provides an overview of the anatomy and pathophysiology as well as current diagnostic and therapeutic standards.

The Significance of Pain in Chronic Venous Disease and its Medical Treatment

Chronic venous disease (CVeD) is a highly prevalent condition in the general population, and it has a significant impact on quality of life. While it is usually manifested by obvious signs, such as varicose veins and venous ulcers, other symptoms of the disease are less specific. Among the other symptoms, which include heaviness, swelling, muscle cramps and restless legs, pain is the symptom that most frequently compels CVeD patients to seek medical aid. However, there is a substantial discrepancy between pain severity and clinically detectable signs of CVeD, questioned by several opposing studies. Further evaluation is needed to clarify this subject, and to analyse whether pain development predicts objective CVeD progression. General management of CVeD starts with advising lifestyle changes, such as lowering body mass index and treating comorbidities. However, the mainstay of treatment is compression therapy, with the additional use of pharmacological substances. Venoactive drugs proved to be the drugs of choice for symptom alleviation and slowing the progression of CVeD, with micronized purified flavonoid fraction being the most effective one. Interventional therapy is reserved for advanced stages of the disease.

Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Points for the Management of Venous Ulcers

Venous ulcer is an extremely common aetiology of lower extremity ulceration, which affects approximately 1% population in most of the countries, and the incidence rate increases with age and female gender. Proper assessment and diagnosis of both the patient and ulcer are inevitable in order to differentiate venous ulcers from other lower extremity ulceration and to frame an adequate and individualised management plan. Venous ulcers generally persist for weeks to many years and are typically recurrent in nature. This consensus aims to present an evidence-based management approach for the patients with venous ulcers. Various management options for venous ulcers include compression therapy, minimally invasive procedures like sclerotherapy and ablation techniques, surgical procedures, debridement and medical management with micronised purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF). Compression therapy is the mainstay treatment for venous ulcer. However, in failure cases, surgery can be preferred. Medical management with MPFF as an adjuvant therapy to standard treatment has been reported to be effective and safe in patients with venous ulcer. In addition to standard therapy, diet and lifestyle modification including progressive resistance exercise, patient education, leg elevation, weight reduction, maintaining a healthy cardiac status and strong psychosocial support reduces the risk of recurrence and improves the quality of life in patients with venous ulcer.

[An update on the treatment of venous insufficiency in pregnancy]

Chronic venous insufficiency is a long-term pathological condition resulting from anatomical or functional alterations of the venous system. This leads to the appearance of symptoms and physical signs that affect a large part of the population and particularly pregnant women, due to the physiology of pregnancy. The few published studies on the use of pharmacological treatments of venous insufficiency in this group of the population, often makes the management of this condition difficult in routine clinical practice. A review is presented in this article, with all the latest updates in the treatment of this condition during pregnancy. There are numerous general, and some pharmacological, recommendations, that we can safely offer the pregnant patient.