Effect of cyanoacrylate vein closure on venous clinical severity score in superficial venous insufficiency: one-month follow-up

Background: Cyanoacrylate ablation (CA) is a novel, non-thermal, non-tumescent (NTNT) technique for treating superficial venous insufficiency. It offers the advantage of permanent vein occlusion without anesthesia, thermal energy, or postoperative compression. Although large multicenter studies have confirmed its safety and efficacy, data from smaller single-center experiences remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate early anatomical and clinical outcomes of cyanoacrylate ablation in an ambulatory population.
Methods: This prospective single-center study included 31 patients with symptomatic superficial venous insufficiency who underwent cyanoacrylate ablation of the great or small saphenous vein. Patients were evaluated clinically and with duplex ultrasound at baseline and at one month post-procedure. Clinical improvement was assessed using the Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS). Statistical analysis was performed using paired tests, with p < 0.05 considered significant.
Results: Complete anatomical closure of all treated veins was confirmed by duplex ultrasound at one month, yielding a 100% technical success rate. No cases of deep vein thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, or infection were recorded. The median total VCSS decreased significantly from 5 to 3 (p = 0.00002), with marked improvement in pain (2→0; p = 0.00003), edema (2→1; p = 0.005), and inflammation (≥2→0; p = 0.043). Other domains, including pigmentation and induration, showed no significant early change.
Conclusion: Cyanoacrylate ablation achieved complete vein closure and significant short-term clinical improvement with no major complications. The absence of tumescent anesthesia, thermal injury, and postoperative compression enhances patient comfort and accelerates recovery. These findings confirm cyanoacrylate ablation as a safe, effective, and well-tolerated minimally invasive option for the treatment of superficial venous insufficiency.
Keywords: Cyanoacrylate ablation, superficial venous insufficiency, chronic venous disease, VCSS, minimally invasive treatment