Consensus statement on the symptom-based treatment of chronic venous diseases

BACKGROUND: Chronic venous diseases are very common. Early symptoms such as a sensation of swelling and heaviness may occur without objectifiable findings, but are nevertheless perceived as bothersome. Progressive disease - marked by varicose veins and symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency - is associated with considerable impairment in quality of life.

METHODS: The present consensus recommendations are based on publications in Pubmed-listed journals as well as relevant international therapeutic guidelines on chronic venous diseases. Only conclusive randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and review articles/meta-analyses were included.

RESULTS: Symptom-based treatment of chronic venous diseases is based on three therapeutic pillars with proven efficacy: invasive therapy, compression therapy, and oral pharmacological treatment. According to current therapeutic guidelines, invasive procedures aimed at restoring unimpaired venous blood flow as well as improving or eliminating pathological changes should be the first-line approach. If an invasive approach is infeasible or undesirable, or if symptoms persist following a therapeutic intervention, optimal use of symptom-based treatment options is recommended. Compression and pharmacological therapy may each be used as sole treatment or in combination. To guarantee maximum therapeutic success, individual treatment decisions should be made on a case-by-case basis.

CONCLUSIONS: Chronic venous diseases should be treated on the basis of individual pathophysiological disturbances. Symptom-based treatment of chronic venous disorders encompasses invasive therapy, compression therapy, and oral pharmacological therapy. Considerations in choosing the appropriate treatment option should include both objective signs as well as subjective symptoms.