Surgical Repair of Primary Saphenous Vein Aneurysm of the Proximal Leg after Initial Presentation as an Inguinal Hernia

Abstract

Primary venous aneurysms of the proximal saphenous vein are uncommon. They are most frequently seen in patients referred for evaluation and treatment of an inguinal or femoral hernia. Since 1992 five patients with a proximal saphenous venous aneurysm were referred for evaluation and treatment of an inguinal or femoral hernia. Data from five consecutive patients treated for a proximal saphenous venous aneurysm were analyzed. Four of the five patients were treated successfully by replacing the proximal saphenous venous aneurysm with a 6-mm expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (IMPRA) interposition graft. All grafts were patent 2 years after the surgical procedure by Doppler examination. A primary aneurysm of the proximal saphenous vein can be successfully repaired using a polytetrafluoroethylene interposition graft with long-term patency. Preservation of the saphenous vein should be considered in patients who have a normal distal saphenous vein. Repair of a primary saphenous venous aneurysm preserves the saphenous vein for use as a conduit for later bypass surgery of the leg or heart.