Effectiveness of elastic stockings versus Fleboderm® to improve VCI and associated cellulite symptoms

Aim. The aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness and acceptance of the new phytodrug Fleboderm®and elastic stockings (ES) to improve chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) (CEAP 1-2) and associated cellulite symptoms. Secondary end-points are to assess the circumferences at point G (thigh) and the subcutaneous thickness in prethrocanteric area preand post-therapies and the tolerability of the treatments. Methods. The study is an observational, parallel-groups, prospective, multicenter clinical trial. The 140 female patients (CVI CEAP 1-2 and associated cellulite) are divided in 2 parallel groups: 70 patients were treated with phytodrug (1 active cap+1 stick daily) and 70 patients were treated with ES (preventive/lst class) for 30 days. Data were analyzed using Wilcoxon test, and a P-value <0.05 was considered significant, Chi-square analysis was used to test categorical data. Results. ES and the phytodrug are equally well tolerated and they are effective to improve symptoms in the 2 group of patients (P<0.001). Fleboderm®is effective to reduce the circumferences of the thigh at point G (right-left 6.4%) and subcutaneous thickness (right- 6.8%, left 8.2%), while ES is not effective (right-left 2%; right 0.9%, left 0.5%). Conclusion. Fleboderm® and elastic stockings are equally effective to improve CVI and cellulite symptoms. Fleboderm® is more effective than elastic stockings to reduce the thickness of subcutaneous tissue and the circumferences of the thighs.