An Investigation of Coagulation Cascade Activation and Induction of Fibrinolysis Using Foam Sclerotherapy of Reticular Veins

BACKGROUND Coagulation parameters have not been investigated when foam sclerotherapy is used to treat reticular leg veins. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of foam bubbles on coagulation and fibrinolysis by measuring platelet count and concentrations of clotting factors and fibrinogen after foam sclerotherapy with sodium tetradecyl sulfate (STS) mixed with room air. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients with reticular veins received treatment with up to 30 mL of foam sclerotherapy prepared with STS and room air in a 1: 4 ratio (1 mL STS, 4 mL room air) using the doublesyringe technique. Venous blood was drawn immediately beforesclerotherapy and 15 minutes after the procedure. Pre- and post- treatment laboratory values were compared. RESULTS Subjects treated with up to 30 mL of foam (30 mL foam = 6 mL sclerosing solution and 24 mL air) showed no statistically significant difference in coagulation or fibrinolysis, as measured according to platelet count and concentrations of clotting factors and fibrinogen, after foam sclerotherapy with STS mixed with room air. CONCLUSION STS foam made with room air, up to 30 mL, when injected into reticular veins does not affect coagulation parameters.