The incidence of ecchymosis in postoperative varicose vein surgery with and without prior local tumescence

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate if the previous tumescence of the adrenaline solution changes the incidence and intensity of bruising as a complication of surgical treatment of varicose veins.METHODS: A comparative, blind, prospective, randomized study was conducted at 14 patients whose lower limbs were divided into anterior, posterior and lateral areas.RESULTS: Out of the 40 studied areas, 30% had a higher incidence of ecchymosis in the limb where the previous tumescence was performed, and 20% had a lower incidence and among the areas where tumescence was performed, 55% (11) had ecchymoses considered mild, 40% (8) had moderate ecchymoses, and 5% (1) had severe ecchymosis. In areas where the previous tumescence was not performed, the results were similar, 60% (12) mild, 40% (8) moderate, and 0% (none).CONCLUSIONS: The tumescent solution performed before the varicose vein surgery did not prevent or reduce the intensity of ecchymosis.