Background: It is often recommended that patients should wear compression stockings for 6 weeks after varicose vein surgery. The aim of this trial was to ascertain whether this is necessary. Method: Following a standardised operation for primary varicose veins, patients were randomised to receive postoperative compression with either Panelast Acryl adhesive short-stretch bandages for 1 week or crepe bandages for 16 h followed by 6 weeks wearing of TED antiembolic stockings. Symptoms were quantified by questionnaire and clinical assessment at 1 and 6 weeks. Results: Postoperatively there was significantly more bleeding in the crepe/TED group and a larger area of bruising at the end of the first week (117.5 cm2 vs. 96 cm2, p<0.02; Mann–Whitney U-test). However, this did not correlate with any difference in discomfort or activity between the two groups. There was no statistical difference in the symptoms reported after the first week. Twenty-seven patients out of 52 randomised to TEDs discarded them before the end of the 6 weeks. Both groups returned to full activities and work after similar periods (Panelast 18.5 days vs. crepe 20.0 days). Conclusion: There was no benefit in wearing compression for more than 1 week. Wearing Panelast bandages for the first week did significantly reduce pain on the first postoperative day, bleeding and the extent of bruising.
Randomised trial of bandaging after sclerotherapy for varicose veins.
