Stripping Of Great Saphenous Vein Research Articles

Stasis and Inflammation in Varicose Vein Development: An Interleukin-Mediated Process from Intima to Media

Introduction: This study investigated the combination of venous stasis and inflammation in varicose vein development. Methods: The study included patients with primary varicose veins operated using high ligation and stripping of greater saphenous vein. All of them showed reflux at sapheno-femoral junction on preoperative Doppler ultrasound. Mesenteric veins from early or advanced gastric cancer specimens were used as control group. Inflammatory mediators expressed in the venous wall were measured via immunohistochemistry and compared between the two groups. Results: Thirty-five (59.3%) men and 24 women with a mean age of 52.8 years (range, 23–77 years) were included and 29 (49.2%) patients had edema or skin changes according to Clinical-Etiology-Anatomy-Pathophysiology (CEAP) classification and reporting standards for chronic venous disorders. The expression of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) in intima and those of IL-6 in media of greater saphenous veins increased, with statistically significant differences between the two groups (p < 0.001). IL-6 in media and TGF-β1 levels in intima were independent predictors of varicose veins (adjusted odds ratios 74.62 and 66.69, respectively). Conclusion: Elevated venous pressure represented by reflux on Doppler ultrasound and increased expression of inflammatory cytokines including IL-6 in media and TGF-β1 in intima are associated with the development of varicose veins.

EndoVenous-assisted invaginated stripping of the great saphenous vein: A pilot and feasibility study.

Objective: By incorporating an endovascular component into Great Saphenous Vein stripping, EndoVenous-assisted Invaginated Stripping (EVIS) aims to make the procedure minimally invasive. A study was conducted to investigate the surgical intervention. Methods: Sketches and videos were used to illustrate the technical aspects of EVIS. A prospective cohort study included 20 patients with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Results: EVIS is performed as a day-surgery. Technical success was 100%, and no complications were recorded. The mean operative time was 45 minutes, intraoperative pain score was 4.8, post-operative pain was 2.5, 1.8, 1.2, 0.5 at 48hours, 1, 4, and 12weeks, respectively. The mean blood loss was 15mL, and the mean length of the GSV strapped was 19cm. The follow-up duplex showed a reduction in the diameter of the residual GSV stump. Conclusions: EVIS is a combination of standard techniques that may prove valuable in managing CVI.

Radiofrequency ablation versus stripping of great saphenous vein in the management of varicose veins

Background: Varicose veins are defined as dilated, tortuous subdermal veins &gt;3 mm in diameter. It is a common entity affecting an estimated 10% of population. Aims and Objectives: The aim was to compare the efficacy of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) with great saphenous vein (GSV) stripping in patients with lower limb varicose veins in terms of disappearance of visible varicosities. Materials and Methods: It was a prospective randomized controlled study, conducted in a tertiary care medical college with the study population consisting of patients suffering from varicose veins. Totally 30 patients were enrolled and divided into 2 groups of 15 patients each. Group A underwent RFA while Group B underwent stripping of GSV with flush ligation of saphenofemoral junction. Results: The mean duration of the procedure in Group A was 53.67±6.6 min while in Group B it was 101.4±11.85 min which was statistically significant (P&lt;0.0001). The mean duration of return to routine activities and work was 2.2±0.41 days in Group A and 3.07±1.16 days in Group B which was statistically significant (P=0.024). Post-operative analgesic requirement was similar in both groups (P=0.224). Complete remission was observed in all patients at 12 months visit and there was no recurrence identified even after a follow-up period of 4 years. Conclusion: RFA was found to be as effective as stripping of GSV in terms of obliteration of veins. The duration of procedure was found to be much less in RFA. Furthermore, cosmetic results, ulcer healing and patient satisfaction rate was better in RFA group. Patient return to normal activity was significantly earlier in RFA group.

Mechanochemical Ablation: Current Status in the Management of Varicose Veins: A Comprehensive Review

Varicose veins, a common venous disorder, often lead to significant discomfort and a reduced quality of life. Over the years, numerous treatment approaches have been explored to alleviate the associated symptoms. Surgical interventions such as saphenofemoral junction ligation and Great Saphenous Vein (GSV) stripping were transformative in their time, but the emergence of endovenous techniques like Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) and Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) marked a significant shift. While these endovenous techniques have shown exceptional clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness, they do come with the drawback of pain due to the application of heat for ablation and the necessity of infiltrating tumescent anaesthesia around the vein. In recent years, non thermal, non tumescent methods have arisen as effective alternatives that reduce patient discomfort. These methods encompass procedures such as Mechanochemical Ablation (MOCA) and endovenous cyanoacrylate glue, which minimise heat generation and eliminate the need for tumescent anaesthesia. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the current status of MOCA. It covers its mechanism of action, clinical outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and safety profiles in managing varicose veins.

A Prospective Study of Comparison between Open Trendelenburg Operation, Radiofrequency Ablation, EVLA, and Glue Technique for the Management of Varicose Veins

Background: Varicose veins are a subset of Chronic Venous disorders, including spider, reticular, varicose, and leg oedema. In our country, varicose veins are common surgical problems most commonly seen in low socio-economic groups and associated with certain occupation(s). Varicose veins have been known to affect the quality of life (QoL) leading to changes in occupation. Surgical treatment methods such as Saphenofemoral Junction (SFJ) Ligation and Great Saphenous Vein (GSV) stripping with spinal or general anaesthesia, Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA), Endovascular Laser Ablation (EVLA) and GLUE Technique within the operating room are considered in patients who remain refractory to conservative management and continue being symptomatic. Aim &amp; Objectives: The study aimed to compare the outcome and associated post-operative complications, including Deep Venous Thrombosis, Pulmonary Embolism or Paresthesia, and Ecchymosis, with various modalities in the management of varicose veins. Material and Methods: The study was performed at a tertiary care centre which included 200 patients over a period of one year and was evaluated in the basis of VCSS &amp; VDS scores. Results: We observed that all treatment protocols demonstrated results which improved the general physical condition of patients with the least number of complications. Treatment for varicose veins encompasses open surgeries and Endovenous techniques (EVLA and RFA), which show comparative results in clinical improvement, complications and postoperative hospital stay. Both VCSS and VDS are sensitive tools for measuring clinical outcomes of treatments of venous disease. However, the choice of appropriate tool is dependent upon the type of treatment, the Surgeon ‘s personal experience, availability of resources, durations of hospital admission and cost of treatment.

Comparative study on outcome of surgical management of varicose veins with and without great saphenous vein stripping

Background: Varicose veins of lower limb are multiple elongated dilated and tortuous veins. It is a progressive disease that worsens as the day passes. The treatment modalities available are conservative, surgical and endovenous therapies. It is accepted that surgical treatment is required for symptomatic varicose veins, to relieve symptoms and to prevent the long-term sequelae of eczema, lipodermatosclerosis and venous ulceration. Different surgical interventions may be used, but most preferred treatment applied is saphenofemoral flush ligation and ligation of incompetent perforators. Methods: This prospective comparative study was conducted on 60 patients in the department of general surgery, Mamata general hospital from July 2020 to June 2022. 60 patients were allocated into two groups of 30 patients each, who underwent flush ligation of saphenofemoral junction with stripping of long saphenous varicose vein and Trendelenburg surgery alone (flush ligation of sapheno femoral junction) respectively. Results: The hematoma formation in the thigh was seen in 23.33% of patients who underwent venous stripping whereas it was seen only in 3.33% who underwent Trendelenburg procedure alone. These wounds were examined in the postoperative period. Delayed wound healing was observed in 26.66% in patients with venous stripping and it was 10% with Trendelenburg procedure alone. There was no significant difference in postoperative ambulation, hospital stay and pain relief after 2 months. Conclusions: From this study with the observed variables, it is concluded that the Trendelenburg procedure with incompetent perforators ligation without venous stripping appears to be better than Trendelenburg procedure with incompetent perforators ligation with venous stripping.

Application of femoral nerve block combined with modified swelling anesthesia in high ligation and stripping of great saphenous vein.

To analyze and explore the clinical efficacy of ultrasound guided femoral nerve block combined with modified swelling anesthetic solution in high ligation and stripping of the great saphenous vein. 90 patients with varicose great saphenous vein of lower limbs undergoing high ligation and stripping of great saphenous vein were randomly divided into group A (femoral nerve block combined with modified swelling anesthesia), group B (simple swelling anesthesia) and group C (epidural anesthesia), with 30 patients in each group. The serum CRP level, operation duration, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative hospitalization time, total hospitalization cost, postoperative VAS score, preoperative and postoperative VCSS score, intraoperative mean arterial pressure and heart rate, postoperative related complications, and patients, satisfaction with diagnosis and treatment were compared among the three groups. There was no significant difference in operation duration, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative complications, and preoperative and postoperative VCSS scores among the three groups (P > 0.05). The postoperative hospitalization time, postoperative VAS score and total hospitalization cost of patients in group A and B were lower than those in group C, and the postoperative hospitalization time and postoperative VAS score in group A were more significant (P < 0.05). Compared with group B, the fluctuation range of intraoperative mean arterial pressure and heart rate, and postoperative serum CRP level in group A and C were lower, especially in group A (P < 0.05). The three groups of patients were followed up regularly after surgery. The results showed that the number of postoperative complications in group A was lower than that in the other two groups (P < 0.05), and the postoperative complications of the three groups were effectively relieved after symptomatic treatment (dressing change, anti-infection, taking drugs to improve circulation, etc.). The satisfaction of patients in group A was significantly higher than that in groups B and C (P < 0.05). Ultrasound guided femoral nerve block combined with modified swelling anesthetic solution applied in high ligation and stripping of the great saphenous vein can significantly improve postoperative inflammatory stress reaction of patients, effectively ensure the safety and reliability of surgical progress, help to improve analgesia effect and accelerate physical rehabilitation, and has short hospitalization time, low medical cost, and high satisfaction of patients' diagnosis and treatment, which is worthy of widespread clinical promotion and reference.

Incidence of saphenous nerve injury after total stripping of greater saphenous vein: Its severity and effect on life

Introduction: Total stripping of great saphenous vein is common practice since it reduces the need for reoperation. However, the incidence of saphenous nerve damage is higher in total stripping than in the conventional stripping. Methods: Fifty-seven patients who underwent total stripping of great saphenous vein were studied to find out the incidence of saphenous nerve damage, its severity and effect on day-to-day activities. Data was collected using an interviewer administered questionnaire and a detailed neurological examination of the leg. The questionnaire included questions on symptoms of saphenous nerve damage, its severity and its impact on their day-to-day life and Aberdeen Venous Severity Score (AVSS) to assess outcome of surgery for varicosities. Results: The age of patients ranged from 17 to 79 years with mean age of 44.7 (SD 15.80) years. Men comprised 56.1% of the sample. Fifteen out of 57 legs (26.3%) had evidence of saphenous nerve damage either by symptoms or by sensory deficit or by both. Patients with saphenous nerve damage were not significantly different in terms of age, gender, pre-operative Clinical Aetiological Anatomical and Pathophysiology (CEAP) class, post-operative CEAP class, post-operative AVSS, follow up interval or presence of recurrent varicosities when compared with those who didn’t have saphenous nerve damage. Among those who had evidence of saphenous nerve damage, only one had persistent symptoms with minimal discomfort in day-to-day activities. Thirteen (22.4%) patients had recurrent varicosities generally presenting as isolated clusters and none of them necessitated to have reoperation with median follow up of 12 months. The acceptance of the operation among patients seems to be encouraging. Conclusions: According to the findings of this study, total stripping of great saphenous vein can be safely undertaken by general surgeons with acceptable risk of saphenous nerve damage. Most of saphenous nerve damages are subclinical and transient and have negligible effect on day-to-day activities.

The influence of non-thrombotic iliac vein stenosis on clinical course and recurrence of primary varicose veins

To investigate the influence of iliac vein stenosis on clinical course and recurrence of primary varicose veins after surgeryMaterials and methods: Thirty-three patients with primary varicose veins qualified for great saphenous vein stripping were analysed. The stenosis of common (CIV) and external (EIV) iliac vein was measured by IVUS and defined in three categories as minimal lumen area &lt;90 mm2 for CIV and &lt;75 mm2 for EIV, minimal lumen diameter &lt;10 mm for CIV and &lt;7.5 mm for EIV and area reduction &gt;50%. The patients were assessed clinically and by Duplex ultrasound 48 to 72 months after the procedure. Any recurrence, the recurrence in the saphenofemoral junction (SFJ), change in Venous Clinical Severity Score ( VCSS), were analyzed in relation to the stenosis in the CIV and EIV. The follow-up was completed in 27 patients. Any recurrence and the recurrence in the SFJ were observed in 70% and 18.5% of patients, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in any recurrence, the recurrence in the SFJ and VCSS in relation to CIV and EIV stenosis in any category. Iliac vein stenosis does not influence the clinical course and recurrence of primary varicose veins after surgery.

Detection of residual varicose veins with near infrared light in the early period after varicose surgery and near infrared light assisted sclerotherapy.

Varicose veins that cannot be seen with the naked eye can be easily detected with Near Infrared (NIR) light. With a minimally invasive procedure performed with NIR light guided, the need for reoperation is reduced, while optimal treatment of venous insufficiency and symptoms is provided. In this study, the detection of residual varicose veins after varicose vein surgery using NIR light and the results of treatment of sclerotherapy were investigated. In this retrospective study, treatment and clinical outcomes of patients' who underwent NIR light-guided foam sclerotherapy for Clinical-Etiology-Anatomy-Pathophysiology (CEAP) (C1, C2) stage residual varicose veins after surgical varicose treatment between 2014 and 2017 were examined. Data of patients who underwent foam sclerotherapy with NIR light were collected and analyzed. A total of 151 patients and 171 lower extremity varicose veins were treated with surgery. 55 (35.7%) of the patients were male, and 96 (62.3%) were female. Their age ranges from 20 to 64, with an average age of 45.38. 4 (2.6%) of the patients had phlebectomy. 137 of patients (90.7%) had ligation of perforated veins, phlebectomy, and great saphenous vein (GSV) stripping, 10 of patients (6.6%) had GSV stripping, perforating vein ligation, phlebectomy, and small saphenous vein (SSV) surgery. No residual leakage was observed in the controls of GSV, SSV, and perforating veins by duplex ultrasonography (DUS). In the first month after varicose surgery, an average of 1.64 ± 1.05 sessions of sclerotherapy was applied to patients with CEAP C1, C2 stage residual varicose veins. 70 patients had one session of sclerotherapy, 37 patients had two sessions of sclerotherapy, 20 patients had three sessions of sclerotherapy, and 11 patients had four sessions of sclerotherapy administrated. The need for complementary therapy was required for all female patients; 13 of the male patients did not require complementary sclerotherapy. While single-session sclerotherapy was applied to most male patients (32 (58.18%), 10 (18.18%) patients received two sclerotherapy sessions. After completing sclerotherapy, 7 (4.63%) patients had superficial venous thrombosis, and 13 (8.60%) patients had hyperpigmentation. Surgical treatment is a safe and effective technique in venous insufficiency. Nevertheless, residual varicose veins may remain, and these can be detected noninvasively with NIR light. Foam sclerotherapy with NIR light is a minimally invasive and safe treatment method for small residual varicose veins after the operation. We think that sclerotherapy with NIR light as a complementary treatment is a practical, reliable, and demanding treatment for clinical improvement, especially in female patients.

Endovenous Laser Ablation, Radiofrequency Ablation and Flebogrif versus Conventional Surgery in Treatment of Primary Varicose Vein of the Lower Limb: Prospective Randomized Controlled Study

Background: Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA), radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and mechanochemical ablation (MOCA) of primary varicose vein are thought to minimise postoperative morbidity and reduce work loss compared with the conventional surgical procedure. Objective: To determine, whether endovenous ablation methods (radiofrequency, laser and mechanochemical) have any advantages or disadvantages in comparison with conventional surgery, in the treatment of primary varicose vein. Patients and Methods: This was a prospective randomized study,conductedonforty patients presented at Vascular Outpatient Clinic for management of chronic venous insufficiency. All patients underwent clinical examination and duplex ultrasonography. Ten (10) patients were treated with ligation and stripping of the great saphenous vein (GSV). Ten (10) patients were treated with radiofrequency ablation. Ten (10) patients were treated with endovenous laser ablation. Ten (10) patients were treated with Flebogrif. Results: Compared with conventional surgery, endovenous ablation methods reduced postoperative discomfort and pain, with a lower complication rate after treatment for avoidance of a groin incision and dissection at the saphenofemoral confluence. Cosmetic demands were also better satisfied. Non-controlled clinical trials have shown that the ablation rate of GSV after EVLA is over 90%. However, risks of EVLA, RFA and Flebogrif remain in terms of recanalization and neoreflux via junctional tributaries. Conclusion: RFA, EVLA, and Flebogrif are minimally invasive procedures. Their potential early benefits, by avoiding groin dissection and GSV stripping, have been confirmed by the findings from this trial. Current evidence based on randomized trials consistently demonstrates significant early benefits after RFA, EVLA and Flebogrif in suitable patients with varicose veins.

Surgery for deep venous insufficiency.

Surgery for deep venous insufficiency.

Endovenous microfoam ablation of below knee superficial truncal veins is safe and effective in patients with prior saphenous treatment across a wide range of CEAP classes

ObjectivePatients requiring thermal or chemical ablation of below knee (BK) truncal veins often have their proximal saphenous veins treated initially and comprise a study population with multilevel, refractory chronic venous insufficiency. The study objective was to assess the outcomes after microfoam ablation of BK truncal and tributary veins in patients with a history of proximal great saphenous vein (GSV) ablation or stripping. MethodsA retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database was performed. All the patients who had undergone endovenous chemical ablation with commercially manufactured polidocanol microfoam for symptomatic BK truncal vein reflux after a previous saphenous ablation or stripping were identified. The patients had undergone duplex ultrasound scanning 48 to 72 hours after the procedure; those who had not adhered to the recommended follow-up protocol were excluded. The demographic data, CEAP (clinical, etiologic, anatomic, pathophysiologic) classification, venous clinical severity score (VCSS), procedure details, adverse thrombotic events, and follow-up data were abstracted. ResultsBetween April 2018 and April 2021, 201 limbs were treated for symptomatic superficial truncal vein reflux with microfoam ablation. Of the 201 limbs, 68 in 49 patients met the inclusion criteria for the present study. The veins treated included the BK GSV (n = 45) and small saphenous vein (n = 23). The median follow-up was 97 days (range, 33-457 days) for the entire cohort. Most patients (63%) had a preoperative CEAP classification of C4 to C6. The median preoperative VCSS was 12.5. All the limbs that had undergone microfoam ablation in this cohort had a previously treated proximal ipsilateral GSV, with either thermal ablation or stripping. The median postoperative VCSS after BK treatment decreased to 10 (P < .001). The closure rate at the last follow-up was 96%. The overall symptomatic relief was 78% at the last follow-up. The absolute ulcer healing rate during the study period was 64% (16 of 25 ulcers had healed). One patient had developed thrombus extension into the popliteal vein, which resolved with anticoagulation therapy. One asymptomatic patient had developed nonocclusive thrombus in a gastrocnemius vein after small saphenous vein ablation. Because she was asymptomatic, anticoagulation therapy was not prescribed. Postoperative pain, phlebitis, and swelling were reported in 12%, 12%, and 2% of patients, respectively, and all had resolved at the last follow-up visit. Three limbs treated with chronic oral anticoagulant agents had had recanalized truncal veins during the study period after initial closure. No pulmonary emboli or neurologic adverse events were reported. No symptoms of saphenous or sural nerve injury had occurred. ConclusionsEndovenous chemical ablation with commercially manufactured polidocanol microfoam of BK truncal veins is a safe and effective treatment for patients with severe, refractory chronic venous insufficiency and prior saphenous interventions. This technique results in excellent overall closure rates and symptomatic relief with low adverse venous thrombotic events, across a wide range of CEAP classes.

Clinical Results 5 Years after Great Saphenous Vein Stripping.

Background: As a standard treatment for the varicose vein of the great saphenous vein (GSV) type, endovenous ablation (EVA) is the main approach. However, as a background to this, in Europe and the United States, neovascularization (Neo) following high ligation (HL) of the saphenofemoral junction (SFJ) at the time of GSV stripping has been emphasized as one of the reasons for the high rate of recurrence. However, in Japan, almost no similar mid- or long-term results of GSV stripping have been reported.Patients and Methods: From September 2011 to March 2014 when EVA was not my surgical option, 413 consecutive legs of patients underwent GSV stripping by myself using the same procedure. The patients were contacted by phone 5 years later, and recurrent varices after surgery (REVAS) and reoperation (REDO) were investigated. A total of 270 legs of the 391 living cases (69%) underwent venous ultrasonography (VUS). HL of the SFJ was performed via central flash ligation with towing and pulling out of the peripheral side branches containing the accessory saphenous veins. In principle, GSV stripping was performed using the invagination method in the range of the entire reflux region from the HL cut section to the confluent section of the side branch causing branch varicose veins. The range of stripping was to the upper thigh in 3 legs, to the middle thigh in 3 legs, to the lower thigh in 7 legs, to the knee in 46 legs, to the upper calve in 83 legs, to the middle calve in 52 legs, and over the full length in 76 legs. Stab avulsion was performed as much as possible for the side-branch varices. On VUS, the SFJ’s stump of GSV, the presence of side-branch remnants and their reflux, the presence or absence of Neo, and the recurrent lesions in other sites were evaluated. REVAS were classified as follows: Level 1, symptomatic recurrent lesion for which surgery is indicated; Level 2, asymptomatic recurrent lesion possibly requiring future surgery; and Level 3, asymptomatic recurrent lesion that is unlikely to require future surgery.Results: Of the 391 legs of patients who could be contacted, REDO was performed in 23 (6%), including 15 limbs, immediately after this investigation, and symptomatic REVAS were observed in 29 (7%). In 270 legs examined by VUS, REVAS were diagnosed as follows: 29 legs with Level 1 lesion, 40 legs with Level 2 lesion, and 27 legs with Level 3 lesion. Level 1 REVAS that occurred at the SFJ were observed only in 3 legs (1.1%), Level 1 REVAS due to incompetent perforating veins (IPVs) were observed in 14 legs (5%), and Level 1 solitary tributary varices were observed in 9 legs (3%).Conclusion: In this study, REVAS at the SFJ were significantly less than those in the past reports. It has been shown that REVAS due to IPVs or solitary tributary varices were more important than those at the SFJ. (This is a translation of Jpn J Phlebol 2019; 30(3): 259–265.)

Combined Lymphovenous Anastomosis and Great Saphenous Vein Stripping for Comorbid Lymphedema and Varicose Veins.

Background: Treatment for patients with comorbid lymphedema and varicose veins is controversial. Surgical options for these patients are limited. The study was aimed to investigate the validity of combined lymphovenous anastomosis (LVA) and great saphenous vein stripping (GSVS) for comorbid lymphedema and varicose veins. Methods: Thirteen patients were involved in the study, and the detail was 21 edematous lower limbs (with coexisting varicose veins and lymphedema; the varicose vein and lymphedema [VL] group) who underwent combined GSVS and LVA therapy. Fifteen patients (with 30 edematous lower limbs and lymphedema only; the lymphedema [L] group) who underwent LVA only were included as a control group. GSVS was performed before LVA in the VL group. Results: No significant differences were seen between the groups at baseline. There were no cases indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography pattern deteriorated after GSVS. No significant difference was seen in lymphatic detection rate; 129.71% ± 58.27% (67%-333%) in the VL group and 122.27% ± 39.47% (50%-250%) in the L group (p = 0.59 > 0.05), respective lymphatic diameters 0.66 ± 0.13 (0.45-0.9) mm and 0.75 ± 0.17 (0.45-1.0) mm (p = 0.07 > 0.05), and respective lymphedema improvement rate 12.17% ± 7.35% (0%-27.4%) and 12.65% ± 7.43% (3.7%-22.3%) (p = 0.86 > 0.05). Discussion: In this study, stripping surgery does not cause lymphatic impairment, at least to the extent that would impede the success of an LVA procedure. Comorbid varicose veins and lymphedema can be treated surgically by a combination of LVA and GSVS.

Intermittent pneumatic compression after varicose vein surgery

ObjectiveIntermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) is an established treatment option to remove tissue fluid from patients with lymphedema and chronic venous disease. The effects of IPC applied directly after varicose vein surgery performed with high volumes of tumescent local anesthesia have not been investigated. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the use of postoperative IPC concerning its effects on the leg volume and patient comfort after surgery. MethodsWe performed an investigator-initiated, single-center, open-label randomized controlled trial. A total of 186 patients indicated for saphenofemoral junction ligation and great saphenous vein or anterior accessory saphenous vein stripping or great saphenous vein redo surgery were randomly assigned 1:1 to the intervention or control group. The patients in the intervention group were treated with IPC at 40 mm Hg for 45 minutes directly after surgery. The outcome measures were the leg volume changes calculated using an optical three-dimensional scanning system (primary objective), quality of life (QoL; Freiburg Life Quality Assessment for chronic venous disease, short form), pain, and extent of ecchymosis with follow-up examinations on days 1 and 7 after surgery. ResultsThe patients in both groups had comparable mean leg volume reductions from baseline to day 1 (IPC group, 58.8 mL; control group, 37.4 mL; P = .967) and to day 7 (63.1 mL and 57.0 mL, respectively; P = .546). We also did not observe significant differences between the two groups in QoL and pain. The patients in the IPC group had developed larger areas of ecchymosis compared with the control group (16% vs 13.3% of leg surface, respectively; P = .046), with a tendency toward an increase in pain at 7 days after surgery compared with no IPC application. ConclusionsThe present randomized controlled trial was designed to evaluate the decongestive effects of a single postoperative session of IPC and its effect on QoL, pain, and ecchymosis in patients who had undergone varicose vein surgery under tumescent local anesthesia. Because no evidence for a benefit from IPC could be found in the present study and increased ecchymosis was found, its standard use after varicose vein surgery cannot be recommended.

Clinical symptoms and signs and severity of venous disease are not associated with non-thrombotic iliac vein lesions in patients with primary varicose veins

Introduction and purpose. The purpose of this study was to determine relationship between non-thrombotic iliac vein lesions and symptomatology of primary varicose veins (PVV). The identification of such association would be helpful in selecting patients with PVV for further diagnostic evaluation. Material and methods. Thirty-two patients with unilateral PVV scheduled for great saphenous vein high ligation and stripping were enrolled in the study. There were 25 (78%) women. The mean age of the patients was 48 years. The patients were asked about pain, oedema, night cramps, heaviness and a history of superficial thrombophlebitis in PVV limb. A clinical stage of CEAP classification was determined and Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) was calculated. During the surgery right and left iliac venous axes were interrogated with an intravascular ultrasound with Volcano s5 Imaging System (Volcano Corporation, Rancho Cordova, CA, USA) and catheters Visions PV .035 minimal lumen area (MLA) and percentage of stenosis (%S) of examined veins were calculated. An association between clinical symptoms and signs in PVV limb and %S of ipsilateral common iliac vein (CIV) and external iliac vein (EIV) was statistically analysed. Results. Pain, oedema, night cramps, heaviness and history of superficial thrombophlebitis were reported by 14 (44%), 17 (53%), 11 (34%), 19 (59%) and 6 (19%) of patients respectively. Twenty-five (78%) limbs were classified as C2 and 7 (22%) limbs as C4a according to CEAP classification. The median VCSS was 4. The mean MLA and %S was 92,9 mm2 and 47% and 74,2 mm2 and 48% for CIV and EIV respectively. Neither smaller MLA nor greater %S of CIV and EIV were associated with symptoms, more advanced stage of CEAP classification or higher VCSS. Conclusions. Neither clinical symptoms nor severity of venous disease can identify non-thrombotic iliac vein lesions in patients with primary varicose veins.

Postoperative outcomes of microphlebectomy and Trendelenburg operation with stripping for saphenofemoral junction incompetence

Background: With more than 10 million cases occurring annually in India, varicose veins can sometimes result in severe discomfort and pain besides disfiguration of skin. The objective of the study was to assess the most viable treatment options for varicose veins between the traditional Trendelenburg procedure and microphlebectomy.Methods: This was an interventional study conducted at a tertiary center in South India. Patients above 18 years of age, presenting with varicose veins due to saphenofemoral junction (SFJ) incompetence and scheduled for surgical management, were included in a sample size of 46. Subjects were randomized into two groups – Group 1 underwent micro phlebectomy and Group 2 underwent Trendelenburg operation with stripping of great saphenous vein (GSV). Postoperative pain was assessed on day of surgery, day after, and postoperative day 7. A venous Doppler ultrasound was conducted 6 weeks after the surgical procedure, to look for reflux at SFJ.Results: Group 1 subjects reported lesser immediate postoperative pain and incurred significantly less cost as determined by an independent sample t-test. Chi-square test found no significant difference in the rate of occurrence of local complications (P > 0.05), and no recurrence was noted among both groups.Conclusion: Microphlebectomy is a more feasible treatment option than Trendelenburg operation with GSV stripping on account of lower costs. It is also a patient friendly alternative due to immediate reduction in pain.

Great saphenous vein sparing versus stripping in Trendelenburg operation for primary varicose veins: a prospective study.

&lt;b&gt;Objective:&lt;/b&gt; The purpose of this study was to compare the outcome of the great saphenous vein (GSV) sparing versus stripping during Trendelenburg operation for varicose veins. &lt;br&gt;&lt;b&gt;Methods:&lt;/b&gt; This was a prospective randomized study of primary varicose vein patients who underwent Trendelenburg operation. Data of patients operated on over a period of 16 months was collected, including: below knee GSV diameter by Duplex Ultrasound and revised venous clinical severity score (rVCSS), calculated preoperatively and postoperatively at 2&lt;sup&gt;nd&lt;/sup&gt;, 4&lt;sup&gt;th&lt;/sup&gt;, and 8&lt;sup&gt;th&lt;/sup&gt; week. &lt;br&gt;&lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; A total of 36 patients undergoing Trendelenburg operation were included in the study. Nineteen patients underwent GSV sparing while 17 underwent stripping of GSV till just below the knee after juxtafemoral flush ligation of the great saphenous vein. There was a significant decrease in the below-knee GSV diameter (19% after 2 months) and rVCSS (60.8%) in the sparing group. The stripping group also showed an almost similar decrease in below-knee GSV diameter (19.6% after 2 months) and rVCSS (66.3%). However, no significant difference was found between the two groups in terms of change in GSV diameter (P = 0.467) and rVCSS (P = 0.781). &lt;br&gt;&lt;b&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/b&gt; Trendelenburg procedure with sparing of GSV can be done routinely for operative management of varicose veins, where surgery is needed.

The outcome of the Trendelenburg procedure with stripping vs. no stripping in the management of varicose veins

Background: Varicose veins is a common problem in Pakistan with multiple treatment options. One of its recommended and commonly performed surgical treatment includes the flush ligation of Saphenofemoral junction (Trendelenburg procedure) with stripping of great saphenous vein and avulsion of varicosities which is a cumbersome process. This study aims to evaluate the effect of stripping of great saphenous vein on the recurrence rate.&#x0D; Patients and methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted in the Surgical Unit I, Services Hospital, Lahore over a period of 22 months from 20-09-2016 to 20-07-2018. Seventy patients were divided equally into two groups of 35 patients each i.e. Trendelenbrug procedure and avulsion of varicosities with stripping down to the knee, (Group A) versus Trendelenbrug procedure and avulsion of varicosities without stripping (Group B). Recurrence at 12 weeks was noted. SPSS version 17.0 was used to analyze data. Comparison of recurrence and stratified confounding factors such as age, gender, and BMI were assessed by the chi-square test (significant p-valve ≤0.05).&#x0D; Results: In group A, 32 out of 35 patients were male (91.43%) and 3 (8.57%) were female. While in group B, 31 out of 35 patients were male (88.87%) and 4 (11.43%) were female. Four out of 35 (11.43%) patients in group A whereas 6 (17.14%) group B patients (p-value=0.494) had a recurrence in the perforators below the knee at 12 weeks. Stratification (p-values) of recurrence rate with respect to age (&lt;40 years: 0.41 versus ≥ 40 years:0.905), gender (female: p-value not applicable versus male: 0.96) and BMI was done (&lt;25 kg/m2: 0.36 versus ≥ 25 kg/m2: 0.901)&#x0D; Conclusions: Stripping does not significantly affect the outcome of varicose vein surgery in relation to the recurrence rate at 12 weeks and recurrence was independent of age, gender, and BMI of patients.