Recurrent varicose veins assessed by colour-coded duplex scanning: own experience

Abstract

SummaryAim: Authors performed a retrospective analysis of causes of recurrent varicose veins following surgery. Methods: They evaluated 89 patients (65 women and 24 men, mean age 49.7 years). All patients previously underwent same surgical procedures (long saphenous vein stripping with/without local multiple avulsions). For the purpose of the study, colour/duplex examinations were applied (Siemens Sonoline Elegra unit). Results: Depending on the type and area of recurrent varicose veins, patients were classified into 4 groups. Group I – 22 patients (persistence of varicose tributaries of LSV in thigh or thigh perforator). Group II – 27 patients (recurrence along the LSV in the calf). Group III – 26 patients (recurrence due to left incompetent short saphenous vein). Group IV – 14 patients (isolated incompetent perforators). Authors conclude, that colour-coded duplex scanning is currently a method of choice in the diagnosis of recurrent varicose veins. High incidence of recurrence due to short saphenous vein incompetence should draw particular attention to this vein in the preoperative assessment of venous system. Recurrence of varicose veins at thigh level is not caused by deep vein insufficiency, but is related to inadequate vein surgery or might be linked to the problem of neovascularisation in this area.