www.Accurate Information for Varicose Vein patients.com?

Abstract

INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to review the information available to the public regarding the treatment of varicose veins on dedicated UK-based websites. PATIENTS AND METHODS Websites were identified by using the Google® search engine. All identified websites were examined, noting the range of treatments explained and their stated potential complications. Website ownership was also recorded. RESULTS A total of 49 websites were identified, belonging to individual physicians (21), private clinics or groups (15), national institutions (4) and device/drug manufacturers (4). Five websites were simply redirecting portals and, hence, were excluded from further analysis. Treatment methods discussed were conventional surgery (32), endovenous laser [EVLA] and/or radiofrequency ablation [RFA] (31), and ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy [UGFS] (27). Only 19 websites (43%) discussed all treatment methods. Complications mentioned following surgery were: cutaneous nerve damage (56%), recurrence (56%), infection (53%), bleeding (41%) and venous thrombo-embolism (38%). Complications following EVLA/RFA were: cutaneous nerve damage (42%), recurrence (42%), venous thrombo-embolism (39%) and burns (35%). Complications following UGFS were: pigmentation (59%), venous thrombo-embolism (48%), ulceration (41%), recurrence (41%), allergy (26%) and visual disturbance (26%). CONCLUSIONS Over 50% of the websites examined did not mention all the management methods now available for varicose veins. More importantly, the majority of the websites did not warn of the common complications of intervention. Currently, information on the Internet cannot be relied upon to supplement informed consent and may actually generate unrealistic patient expectations.

YouTube as a source of information on varicose veins

“…The authors also indicated that these web sites did not include any information on the complications that may possibly be encountered following these treatments. 12 This finding is consistent with our results, suggesting there is generally insufficient information on treatment outcomes in internet media. The content of YouTube videos is determined by the preferences of the uploader; there is no restriction or selection in the process.…”

The treatment of varicose veins: an investigation of patient preferences and expectations

“…13 A recent investigation of the information available to patients with varicose veins on the Internet found that less than 50% of websites discussed all treatment options and many failed to warn of potential complications. 18 Ideally, patients should be provided with information about all potential treatment options, including the advantages and disadvantages, even if they are not available at that particular hospital, and should be allowed to express a preference as to where they are treated.…”

A Study of Patient Satisfaction Following Endothermal Ablation for Varicose Veins

“…5 It has also been shown that a number of Web sites fail to give accurate information about complications following endovenous treatments. 6 The published results of randomized clinical trials comparing surgery to endovenous thermal ablation have frequently shown endovenous procedures to offer reduced postoperative pain, less bruising, and faster return to normal activity. However, outcomes following the 2 modalities are comparable with respect to obliteration of superficial reflux, 7,8 safety, 7 complications, 9 alleviation of symptoms, 7,8 speed of procedure, 9 recurrence, 10,11 and cost.…”