History of foam sclerotherapy—a review

Introduction: Primary varicose veins of the lower extremities mainly cover the great saphenous vein (VSM) and small saphenous vein (VSP) basins. The treatment procedure for pulse removal can be performed by a standard open technique—crossectomy and stripping, by minimally invasive methods—radiofrequency and laser ablation, as well as by internal application of a sclerosing agent in liquid or foam format. The use of foam began as far back as 1939.Literature Review: This publication examines in detail the historical stages that foam sclerotherapy has gone through from its inception to the present day. The rules for treatment with sclerosing high-viscosity foam, approved by phlebologists worldwide, are described in detail.Discussion: Foam sclerotherapy for various forms of varicose veins is a uniquely good and inexpensive method for radical treatment of superficial varicose veins. Even if the recurrence rate after foam sclerotherapy is slightly higher than other minimally invasive procedures, foam treatment is an affordable, inexpensive, and highly effective method, as long as it is performed according to the accepted rules.Conclusion: The present material considers the individual historical moments for establishing the foam treatment as a method of choice. John Bergan’s 2003 statement: “Foam is the future of varicose vein treatment,” is still relevant today