2nd European Consensus Meeting on Foam Sclerotherapy 2006, Tegernsee, Germany.

RATIONALE

The spread of Foam Sclerotherapy has resulted in the renaissance of sclerotherapy as a non-invasive treatment method for varicosis. The use of sclerosant foam for various forms of varicosis has now become established world-wide as safe and effective. An expanded European expert committee meeting in April 2006, in Tegernsee was prompted by new findings and continuous further development of the method, but also because it had not been possible to consider all the relevant aspects of Foam Sclerotherapy in depth at the first meeting.

OBJECTIVES

To revise and update the results of the 1st European Consensus Meeting and to include new, important topics in the development of Foam Sclerotherapy. To provide practical information for less experienced colleagues.

METHODOLOGY

The 29 participants were sent a comprehensive questionnaire in advance covering all the relevant aspects of Foam Sclerotherapy. The organisers drew up various preliminary statements on the basis of the results. During the meeting itself the participants revised and/or approved and/or rejected these statements. An additional analysis of the questionnaire data also enabled preparation of an illustrative description of the broad spectrum of individual procedures used in this form of treatment.

RESULTS

Foam Sclerotherapy has become an established treatment option for varicosis and has undoubtedly improved the management of varicose veins. European experts met Tegernsee for a second time to revise and expand their previous recommendations. In addition, individual working groups focused extensively on important issues. The current consensus, recommendations and descriptions of the individual aspects of the methods concern such issues as the indications for Foam Sclerotherapy, concentration and volume of the liquid sclerosants, relative and absolute contraindications, access and puncture options as well as clinical and ultrasound-guided recording of the treatment results. This final document reflects the experts' opinions on the principles of the effective and, above all, safe use of sclerosant foam for various indications and correct monitoring of the results of Foam Sclerotherapy.