Table 1 Summary of published studies related to the COMMOCA trial

Bakker et al. [10]

Compression × 2 days (Group A) vs compression × 5 days (Group B)

93 patients randomised to stockings (n = 48) and no stockings (n = 45)

Pain scores recorded using VAS at 48 h, 1 week and 6 weeks. Total follow-up of 3 months

Physical function and vitality significantly better in group B at 1 week. No statistically significant difference at 6 weeks. VAS score in group B (2.0 ± 1.1) was significantly lower at 1 week than in group A (3.7 ± 2.1, p ≤ 0.001) [10]. No significant difference, observed at 6 weeks post procedure

High drop-out of the trial

Absence of any phlebectomies or sclerotherapy

Elderman et al. [11]

Stockings vs no stockings

111 patients randomised to stockings (n = 55) and no stockings (n = 56)

Pain scores and quality of life scores evaluated on the day of the procedure, 2–3 days afterwards and 2–6 weeks post procedure

Statistically significant difference in the pain scores in favour of the stockings group up to day 7. No significant difference at 6 weeks Greater use of analgesia in patients in the no stockings group (p < 0.05). Significantly higher satisfaction scores in stockings group at 2 days (4.44 vs 4.15) and at 6 weeks (4.59 vs 4.18)

High level of dropouts and the absence of blinding

Hamel-Desnos et al. [12]

Compression vs no compression

60 patients randomised to compression (n = 31) vs no compression (n = 29)

Clinical and duplex ultrasound assessments made on days 14 and 28 post procedure

No difference between compression and control groups when comparing efficacy, side effects, satisfaction scores, symptoms and QOL

Poor compliance with compression therapy