Reduction of Varicose Vein Recurrence by Use of Postoperative Compression Stockings

Objectives: To assess the ability of compression stockings to reduce the postoperative recurrence of varicose veins after surgery and to assess patient compliance. Design: Prospective randomized trial with follow-up to 1 year after surgery. Patients: Sixty-nine patients presenting for varicose vein surgery. Interventions: Interview for stocking compliance postoperatively with clinical and Doppler assessment of recurrence at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months postoperatively. Main outcome measures: Recurrence of varicosities and patient compliance. Results: 39% of patients allocated stockings were either lost to follow-up or abandoned their use after 3 months; 11% declined the stockings on presentation. By 1 year postoperatively, only 6% in the stocking group had recurrent varicose veins compared with 71% in the control group (no stockings). Conclusion: Despite an early, relatively high noncompliance rate, external compression hosiery significantly reduced postoperative recurrence of varicose veins.