Changes of stump length depending on starting position of glue injection related to venous diameter during cyanoacrylate closure for incompetent saphenous veins

Abstract

ObjectiveA common pattern of recurrence after cyanoacrylate treatment of incompetent saphenous veins has been associated with reflux from the residual stump. The purpose of this study was to analyze the starting point of cyanoacrylate glue injection from the junction to decrease the stump length. MethodsA retrospective review was performed using prospectively collected data of patients with cyanoacrylate closure (CAC). Preoperatively, the diameter of the saphenous vein was measured. CAC was performed according to the manufacturer's instructions. After the procedure, clinical outcomes including pain, Venous Clinical Severity Score, and quality of life using the Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire were evaluated. Postoperative duplex scanning was performed to evaluate the occlusion rate of the target vein, stump length, and presence of endovenous glue-induced thrombosis. The stump length was analyzed according to the preoperative venous diameter to determine the proper point of glue injection to decrease the stump length. ResultsDuring the study period, CAC was performed in 408 patients. The mean age was 56.2 ± 11.5 years (range, 19-84 years). A total of 279 patients (68.4%) were women. Occlusion of the target vein was achieved in all patients. After the procedure, pain, Venous Clinical Severity Score, and quality of life were improved (P < .001). Endovenous glue-induced thrombosis developed in 5.8% of patients. There was a 1.53-fold linear increase in the stump length for every 1-mm increment of the preoperative venous diameter. In 20 patients with a venous diameter ≥5 mm, glue injection was performed safely 4 cm distal to the junction to decrease the stump length. ConclusionsThe stump length linearly increased with an increase in the saphenous vein diameter. If the diameter of the saphenous vein is more than 5 mm, cyanoacrylate glue may be injected 4 cm distal to the junction to decrease the stump length.