A Comparative Study between Cryo-laser Cryo-Sclerotherapy (CLaCS) and Sclerotherapy in the Treatment of Telangiectasia and Reticular Veins: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: Telangiectasias, characterized by dilated venules, are frequently observed in the lower extremities. Sclerotherapy stands out as the predominant treatment for these vascular lesions. The integration of laser therapy with a mild sclerosing agent, serving as an osmotic sclerosant, presents an enhanced cosmetic treatment approach, aiming to optimize outcomes while minimizing potential adverse effects. This study sought to evaluate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of cryo-laser and cryo-sclerotherapy (CLaCS) and compare it with injection sclerotherapy for the treatment of telangiectasia and reticular veins.

METHODS: In this randomized controlled trial, individuals expressing concerns about telangiectasia and reticular veins were recruited for aesthetic treatment. Enrolled patients were prospectively randomized according to the chosen treatment technique. Group A included patients undergoing CLaCS treatment with 70% dextrose, focusing on a single area measuring 20 cm by 20 cm. Group B comprised patients receiving polidocanol injection sclerotherapy for a single area of the same dimensions.

RESULTS: A total of 195 patients were enrolled in Group A, while Group B comprised 197 patients. Following three treatment sessions, The rates of complete lesion elimination after first, second and third treatment sessions were 64.6%, 86.2%, and 100% in Group A and 50.3%, 74.1%, and 85.3% in group B respectively. Notably, Group A exhibited a significantly higher complete elimination rate compared to Group B at the conclusion of the study (p<0.001). Furthermore, Group A demonstrated a statistically significant lower incidence of postprocedural pigmentation and other complications when compared to Group B (p<0.001). These findings underscore the enhanced efficacy and safety profile associated with the CLaCS technique utilizing 70% dextrose in comparison to injection sclerotherapy with polidocanol.

CONCLUSION: CLaCS, combining cryo-laser and cryo-sclerotherapy, demonstrated superior efficacy and safety compared to traditional polidocanol sclerotherapy for treating telangiectasia and reticular veins.