Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Abstract

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a common, but underdiagnozed clinical disorder associated with a variety of signs and symptoms. The presence of leg edema in association with varicose veins, and venous leg ulcer in later disease stages defines the disease. The pathogenesis of chronic venous disease is based on venous reflux, obstruction, or a combination thereof. Prior postthrombotic syndrome is one of risk factor for CVI which may explain observed prevalence of thrombophilia in CVI. Color flow duplex ultrasound is the gold standard for nearly all diagnostic issues related to chronic venous disease. Compression stockings are the mainstay for conservative management. Earlier use of venous ablation therapy should be considered in symptomatic patients with superficial tortuous vein.