Abstract

This retrospective observational study aimed to evaluate the complication rates and predictors of post-procedural complications following liquid polidocanol sclerotherapy in patients with superficial venous disorders. Demographic characteristics, treatment-related variables, and post-procedural adverse events were analyzed in 153 patients who underwent a total of 779 sclerotherapy sessions. Any complication occurred in 55 patients (35.9%), corresponding to a per-session complication rate of 7.1%. The most frequently observed adverse events were erythema, ecchymosis, and localized pain, all of which were self-limiting and clinically manageable. No cases of deep vein thrombosis, anaphylactic reaction, or neurological complications were identified. Multivariable logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the number of treatment sessions was the only independent predictor of complication development. Overall, liquid polidocanol sclerotherapy exhibited a favorable safety profile, with only minor transient complications and no major systemic adverse events, while an increasing number of treatment sessions was associated with a higher risk of post-procedural complications.

Key words: Sclerotherapy, polidocanol, venous insufficiency, complications, varicose veins