Axial Ablation Versus Terminal Interruption of the Reflux Source

Axial Ablation Versus Terminal Interruption of the Reflux Source (AAVTIRS): A Randomised Controlled Trial

This randomised trial aims to compare the effect on ulcer healing of different means of managing venous reflux in the lower limb. It is a non-inferiority trial comparing endovenous ablation of the axial (Saphenous and other large veins) veins of the lowere limb, versus terminal interruption of the reflux source (TIRS). For the purposes of this trial TIRS will be achieved using foam sclerotherapy of the distal tributaries in the immediate vicinity of the ulcer being treated.

Inclusion Criteria

Primary or recurrent venous leg ulcer

Long or short saphenous vein reflux confirmed on ultrasound assessment, defined as retrograde flow lasting for >0.5 seconds

Ankle-Brachial pressure Index (ABI) ≥ 0.8 (if ulceration prevents ABI Toe-Brachial Index(TBI) ≥ 0.5 acceptable), or a palpable pulse

Ulcer size between 1 and 200 cm2

Patient suitable for full compression bandaging

Exclusion criteria Pregnancy (or breastfeeding and needing to feed within 48 hours of treatment)

Active infection of ulcer, or infection within the last two weeks

Leg ulcer of non-venous aetiology as determined by clinical assessment

Isolated perforator vein reflux only

Evidence of deep venous insufficiency or thrombosis

Known hypersensitivity to Sotradecol or similar sclerosants

Previous inability to tolerate compression bandages

Presence of any contraindications for the use of compression bandages:

Absence of a palpable pulse, and Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) <0.8

Decompensated congestive cardiac failure (NYHA Class IV)

Known hypersensitivity to any of the component materials

Patients unable to provide informed consent

Patients attending the leg ulcer clinic already will be excluded from enrolment with the same ulcer but will be eligible to enrol with a contralateral ulcer. Recurrent ipsilateral ulcers will not be excluded.