CLaCS Using 0.2% Aetoxysklerol Foam and 70% Glucose for the Treatment of Lower Limb Telangiectasias

Telangiectasias and reticular varicose veins affect up to 80% of the population, significantly impacting quality of life beyond cosmetic concerns. In advanced stages (e.g., corona phlebectatica), they may contribute to the progression of chronic venous disease. CLaCS (CryoLaser and CryoSclerotherapy) is currently regarded as the most advanced outpatient technique for managing these lesions. It integrates two modalities: laser-induced vasospasm of feeder veins using Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser, and subsequent sclerotherapy of the visible telangiectasias. This hybrid approach aims to maximize efficacy while minimizing adverse effects associated with each component when used in isolation.

The original CLaCS protocol utilizes 70% hypertonic glucose as the sclerosant, a substance that induces endothelial dehydration, fibrosis, and gradual obliteration of the treated veins. While glucose is widely considered safe and well tolerated, its efficacy may be limited in certain patient populations or lesion types.

Alternatively, polidocanol (Aetoxysklerol), a detergent-type sclerosant, is routinely used in concentrations of 0.5-3% for sclerotherapy. It disrupts the endothelial surface, triggering inflammation, spasm, and thrombosis, ultimately resulting in vessel closure. Recent advances in delivery techniques, such as the VARIXIO system, allow for the generation of a highly stable foam using very low concentrations of Aetoxysklerol (e.g., 0.2%). This approach may retain therapeutic efficacy while potentially reducing complications like hyperpigmentation, pain, or matting.

To date, no clinical trials have directly compared the effectiveness of CLaCS using different sclerosants. This prospective, randomized, controlled, non-inferiority trial aims to evaluate whether 0.2% Aetoxysklerol foam is non-inferior to 70% glucose in the treatment of lower limb telangiectasias using the CLaCS method. Patients will be randomly assigned to receive CLaCS treatment with either 70% glucose or 0.2% polidocanol foam, with outcomes assessed by blinded evaluators using standardized pre- and post-treatment photography and patient-reported satisfaction.

The primary endpoint is the proportion of treated areas showing clinically significant clearance of telangiectasias at 8 weeks post-treatment. Secondary endpoints include patient satisfaction and comparison of treatment outcomes with AI-based predictive modeling. This trial will provide critical evidence to inform sclerosant selection in CLaCS procedures and may support broader adoption of low-dose detergent-based foams as a safe and effective alternative to glucose.