The morphology of the varicose short saphenous system

2006 ◽  
Vol 21 (2) ◽  
pp. 55-59 ◽  
Author(s):  
L A Fowkes ◽  
S G Darke
Keyword(s):  
Saphenous Vein ◽  
Continuous Wave ◽  
Duplex Ultrasound ◽  
Entire System ◽  
Recurrence Rates ◽  
Female Ratio ◽  
Long Saphenous Vein ◽  
Continuous Wave Doppler ◽  
Short Saphenous Vein ◽  
Male To Female

Objective: Surgery for the varicose short saphenous vein (SSV) remains unsatisfactory. Specific problems include locating the saphenopopliteal junction (SPJ) and whether the trunk should be stripped. Recurrence rates are high. The objective was to review the morphology of varicose SSV and to address these aspects. Methods: Retrospective study of consecutive patients scheduled for SSV surgery based on initial continuous wave Doppler assessment. Detailed analysis of preoperative duplex ultrasound examinations with quantified reflux. Results: A total of 56 limbs (unilateral) were studied, male to female ratio was 18:38 and mean age was 51 years. SPJ: severe reflux in 47, mean diameter 8.1 mm (all above the skin crease [mean 2.7 cm]). Reflux was 'focal', being confined to the peri-junctional area with normal sized and competent distal short saphenous trunks in 29. In the remainder, incompetence was 'complete' with dilatation and reflux of the entire system. In only one limb did varicosities arise distally from a proximally competent system. Long saphenous vein ( LSV): coexistent reflux in 17, with communications with the SSV in 11. Deep reflux: at least one segment of deep reflux was found in 24 limbs. In this small study, no significant association with other morphology was found apart from 'complete' SSV reflux. Conclusion: The SPJ is usually severely incompetent, enlarged and sited above the skin crease. The morphology of the varicose SSV exhibits important differences from the LSV. In over half, incompetence is 'focal', confined to the peri-junctional vein and the distal trunk is competent suggesting a case for selective trunk stripping. Varicosities arising from a distally incompetent short saphenous trunk are uncommon.

Haemodynamic Correction of Varicose Veins (CHIVA): An Effective Treatment?

1996 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. 98-101 ◽  
Author(s):  
P. Zamboni ◽  
C.V. Feo ◽  
M. G. Marcellino ◽  
G. Vasquez ◽  
C. Mari
Keyword(s):  
Saphenous Vein ◽  
Continuous Wave ◽  
Varicose Veins ◽  
Venous Pressure ◽  
Vein Thrombosis ◽  
Long Saphenous Vein ◽  
Group A ◽  
Primary Varicose Veins ◽  
Short Saphenous Vein ◽  
Group B

Objective: Evaluation of the feasibility and utility of haemodynamic correction of primary varicose veins (French acronym: CHIVA). Design: Prospective, single patient group study. Setting: Department of Surgery, University of Ferrara, Italy (teaching hospital). Patients: Fifty-five patients with primary varicose veins and a normal deep venous system (ultrasonographic criteria) were studied. Interventions: Fifty-five haemodynamic corrections by the CHIVA method described by Franceschi were undertaken. Seven patients were treated for short saphenous vein varices (group A) while 48 patients were treated for long saphenous vein varices (group B). Main outcome measures: Clinical: presence of varices and reduction in symptoms. Duplex and continuous-wave Doppler detection of re-entry through the perforators and identification of recurrences or new sites of reflux. Postoperative ambulatory venous pressure and refilling time measurements. Patients were studied for 3 years following surgery. Results: In group A, 57% short saphenous vein occlusions with no re-entry through the gastrocnemius and soleal veins were recorded. In group B the long saphenous vein thrombosis rate was 10%. In this group 15% of the patients showed persistence of reflux instead of re-entry at the perforators. Early recurrences were also observed. Overall CHIVA gave excellent results in 78% of the patients. Statistically significant ambulatory venous pressure and refilling time changes were recorded ( p<0.001). Conclusions: CHIVA treatment is inadvisable for short saphenous vein varices. Long saphenous vein postoperative thrombosis is related to development of recurrences

Patterns of Venous Reflux in 1,027 Lower Limbs with Primary Varicose Veins

2017 ◽  
Vol 41 (2) ◽  
pp. 59-65 ◽  
Author(s):  
Victoria Carrison ◽  
Brooke Tompkins ◽  
Lisa Fronek ◽  
Nicole Loerzel ◽  
Nisha Bunke
Keyword(s):  
Saphenous Vein ◽  
Varicose Veins ◽  
Duplex Ultrasound ◽  
Venous Intervention ◽  
Lower Limbs ◽  
Venous Reflux ◽  
Female Ratio ◽  
Primary Varicose Veins ◽  
Male To Female ◽  
Saphenofemoral Junction

Objective The purpose of this study was to investigate the anatomical patterns of superficial venous reflux in patients presenting with primary varicose veins. Methods Ultrasound scans, detailed vein maps, and histories of patients presenting to a single vein center were retrospectively reviewed. Patients included in the study were those presenting with primary varicose veins and classified as clinical, etiologic, anatomic, and pathophysiologic classes 2 through 4. Patients with histories of venous intervention, malformations, active ulcerations, or deep system abnormalities were excluded from this study. Results Overall, 1,027 limbs of 617 patients met the inclusion criterion. The male to female ratio was 1:6.0. Varicose veins were attributed to reflux in the great saphenous vein (GSV) 66% (n = 679) of the time. When GSV reflux was present, the saphenofemoral junction was incompetent 83% of the time. Six percent of varicose veins were attributed to the anterior accessory saphenous vein. Small saphenous vein (SSV) reflux was demonstrated in 34.8% (n = 357). The thigh extension of the SSV and vein of Giacomini demonstrated reflux in 7% (n = 69) and 1% (n = 15) of limbs, respectively. Reflux of nonsaphenous origin was present in 19% (n = 198) of limbs (isolated tributary reflux). Conclusion The variations of superficial venous reflux in patients presenting with primary varicose veins are diverse and complex. Therefore, thorough duplex ultrasound is necessary in all patients with primary varicose veins to evaluate the precise source of reflux to determine therapeutic options.

Inferior selective crossectomy for great saphenous vein incompetence: Our experience

Vascular ◽  
2020 ◽  
pp. 170853812094725
Author(s):  
Maurizio Pagano ◽  
Giovanna Passaro ◽  
Roberto Flore ◽  
Paolo Tondi
Keyword(s):  
Saphenous Vein ◽  
Varicose Vein ◽  
Great Saphenous Vein ◽  
Duplex Ultrasound ◽  
Venous Disease ◽  
Recurrence Rates ◽  
Saphenofemoral Junction

Objective To describe the mid-term outcome after inferior selective crossectomy in a subset of patients with symptomatic chronic venous disease and both great saphenous vein and suprasaphenic valve incompetence. Methodsː Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was conducted. During an eight-year period, 1095 ligations of all saphenofemoral junction inferior tributaries and great saphenous vein stripping were performed in 814 Clinical, Etiology, Anatomy, Pathophysiology C2–C6 patients. Duplex ultrasound follow-up examinations were performed after 30 days, 6 months, and 2 years, and saphenofemoral junction hemodynamic patterns and varicose veins recurrence rates were evaluated. Results Two hundred and twenty patients completed the two-year follow-up period. At the 30-day Duplex ultrasound evaluations, two different hemodynamic patterns were described. Type 1, with physiological drainage of saphenofemoral junction superior tributaries, was observed in 214 patients. Type 2, without flow in saphenofemoral junction superior tributaries, was observed in six patients. Overall varicose vein recurrence rates were 0, 2.3, and 2.7% at the 30-day, 6-month, and 2-year follow-up examinations, respectively. At the two-year follow-up, Type 1 patients showed 0% varicose vein recurrence, while Type 2 patients showed 100%. Conclusionsː Inferior selective crossectomy seems to be a valid and safe option in case of both suprasaphenic valve and great saphenous vein incompetence. Duplex ultrasound evaluation, according to our protocol, allows us to identify two different saphenofemoral junction hemodynamic patterns that could predict varicose vein recurrence at mid-term. An optimal stump washing after inferior selective crossectomy, warranted by patency and large caliber saphenofemoral junction superior tributaries, seems to be the key point in preventing varicose vein recurrence in this context. However, large prospective studies regarding saphenofemoral junction modifications and varicose vein recurrence are needed to confirm these preliminary observations.

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

Phlebologie ◽  
2000 ◽  
Vol 29 (03) ◽  
pp. 58-61 ◽  
Author(s):  
G. Madycki ◽  
P. Dabek ◽  
A. Gabrusiewicz ◽  
W. Staszkiewicz
Keyword(s):  
Saphenous Vein ◽  
Varicose Veins ◽  
Preoperative Assessment ◽  
Duplex Scanning ◽  
Group Iii ◽  
Recurrent Varicose Veins ◽  
Long Saphenous Vein ◽  
Group I ◽  
Short Saphenous Vein ◽  
Deep Vein

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.

Incompetence of the gastrocnemius vein

2004 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 57-64 ◽  
Author(s):  
J T Hobbs ◽  
M A W Vandendriessche
Keyword(s):  
Saphenous Vein ◽  
Duplex Ultrasound ◽  
Popliteal Fossa ◽  
Posterior Arch ◽  
Flow Imaging ◽  
Fascial Defect ◽  
Ankle Oedema ◽  
Vertical Incision ◽  
Short Saphenous Vein ◽  
The Difference

The veins of the popliteal fossa are more complex than is generally realised. It is frequently taught that the short saphenous vein need only be divided deep to the popliteal fascia. However, the pattern and level of termination of the short saphenous vein shows wide variation. Sometimes, the short saphenous vein is normal and the pathology involves other veins. The 'vein of the popliteal fossa' may sometimes be present as a large tortuous varicosity and pierce the fascia to become superficial at the back of the knee. Incompetence of a gastrocnemius vein, usually the medial, may cause swelling and discomfort within the calf yet nothing is apparent. Awareness may be precipitated by attempting to wear tight fitting boots or trousers when the difference in calf circumference is recognised yet there is no ankle oedema. Next a venous flare or dilated venules appear over a perforator site, usually the mid-calf perforator, but sometimes the Boyd's perforator, filling the posterior arch tributary of the greater saphenous vein. Incompetence of a gastrocnemius vein is suggested by the history and clinical examination. Reflux is demonstrated by Doppler ultrasound and accurately localized by duplex ultrasound with colour-flow imaging. The anatomy is clearly visualized by venography.Large gastrocnemius veins are seen in athletes and ballerinas with well-developed calf muscles and such veins are physiological and should not be interrupted. It is imperative that reflux is demonstrated before surgical treatment is offered. Treatment involves ligating the incompetent gastrocnemius vein through a small incision over the popliteal fossa. If the mid-calf perforator is also incompetent it is divided deep to the fascia through a small vertical incision and the fascial defect closed. The distal short saphenous vein may be removed by partial stripping and any tributaries removed by phlebectomies using Oesch hooks. Strong below-knee stockings are worn for a month following this surgery.

scholarly journals Primary varicose veins: Frequency, clinical significance and surgical treatment

2004 ◽  
Vol 132 (11-12) ◽  
pp. 398-403
Author(s):  
Dragan Vasic ◽  
Lazar Davidovic ◽  
Zivan Maksimovic ◽  
Aleksandra Crni ◽  
Miroslav Markovic ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Surgical Treatment ◽  
Saphenous Vein ◽  
Varicose Veins ◽  
World Health ◽  
Superficial Thrombophlebitis ◽  
Perforating Veins ◽  
Long Saphenous Vein ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Primary Varicose Veins ◽  
Short Saphenous Vein

INTRODUCTION According to the definition of the World Health Organization, varicose veins represent abnormally enlarged superficial veins having baggy or cylindrical shape. The most frequent cause of primary varicose veins is the insufficiency of long saphenous vein (LSV), but especially the basin of its connection with femoral vein and perforating veins. OBJECTIVE The objectives of these investigations were: the determination of insufficiency incidence of SSV in cases of LSV insufficiency; the establishment of association of insufficiency of perforating veins of the basin of LSV and SSV; the study of the results of surgical treatment of insufficiency and varicosity of both short and long saphenous veins. METHODS In this study, 100 patients (66 women and 34 men), average age 52.1 years, with clinical symptoms showing the insufficiency and varicosity of long saphenous vein with no change of deep vein system were examined. Ultrasonographic examinations were made using Color Doppler probes - 7.5 and 3.75 MHz (Toshiba Corevison SSA 350 A); the development of incompetence of long saphenous vein (LSV) and short saphenous vein (SSV) at the level of the junction as well as other incompetent valves were examined. The reflux was defined as a retrograde flow of the duration longer than 0.5 seconds. RESULTS The insufficiency of short saphenous vein was determined by ultrasonographic examination in 34%, while the insufficiency of perforating veins in 80% of patients. 40% of patients were operated (33.3% of females, and 52.9% of males). The most frequent indications for surgical treatment of superficial veins insufficiency were: strong varicosities, clear symptoms and signs, superficial thrombophlebitis and conditions after superficial thrombophlebitis. Surgical treatment was applied in 16% of patients due to recurrence in the basin of long saphenous vein, and in 6% of cases because of the recurrence in the basin of short saphenous vein. Data analysis failed to discover any statistically significant difference between the age of patients and varicosities in the basin of long saphenous vein as well as in the basin of short saphenous vein (51.98?9.97 years; 54.50?31.82 years; t=0.36; p>0.05), or any significant difference of BMI value, with regard to the obesity of patients and varicosities in the basin of long saphenous vein as well as in the basin of short saphenous vein (28.02?4.61 kg/m2; 24.50?6.36 kg/m2; t=0.50; p>0.05). No statistically significant correlation was found between Color Duplex findings of insufficiency of both long saphenous vein and short saphenous vein (p=-0.21 ; p>0.05), nor any significant correlation of Color Duplex findings of perforating veins insufficiency in the basin of long saphenous vein and short saphenous vein (p=-0.115; p>0.05). CONCLUSION The incidence of insufficiency is significant: approximately every third patient has short saphenous vein insufficiency, while three third of patients have perforating veins insufficiency. Color Duplex limb's veins ultrasonography is highly reliable method for the examination and study of superficial veins diseases, which is very important for preoperative decision-making and selection of surgical technique as well as for postoperative follow-up.

Does a Double Long Saphenous Vein Exist?

1999 ◽  
Vol 14 (2) ◽  
pp. 59-64 ◽  
Author(s):  
S. Ricci ◽  
A. Caggiati
Keyword(s):  
Saphenous Vein ◽  
Lower Limb ◽  
Healthy Subjects ◽  
Varicose Veins ◽  
Duplex Ultrasound ◽  
Clear Definition ◽  
Arterial Grafts ◽  
Long Saphenous Vein ◽  
Saphenous Veins ◽  
Definition Of

Background: The incidence of reduplication of the long saphenous vein (LSV) reported in the literature is highly variable, perhaps due to the lack of a clear definition. Objective: To use ultrasonography to re-evaluate the incidence of LSV reduplication in healthy subjects and Patients with varicose veins on the basis of a new definition of this anatomical aspect. Methods: The presence of two parallel superficial venous channels in the lower limb was sought in a series of 610 duplex ultrasound examinations. The LSV was identified, by the ‘eye’ sign, running deeply in the hypodermis, closely ensheathed by two hyperechogenic laminae (the saphenous compartment). Tributary veins were identified by their more superficial course, lying outside the compartment. True LSV reduplication was considered to be present when two venous channels were Present within the saphenous compartment. Results: True reduplication of the LSV is extremely rare (1%) and only affects a segment of vein. Large tributaries running parallel to the LSV do not comprise true reduplication, but may act as a ‘functional double vein’. Better understanding of the anatomy of the LSV may improve operative treatment for varicose veins and improve the use of saphenous veins as arterial grafts.

Assessment of Lower Extremity Venous Valvular Insufficiency Examinations

2005 ◽  
Vol 29 (3) ◽  
pp. 123-129 ◽  
Author(s):  
Terry Needham
Keyword(s):  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Ultrasound Imaging ◽  
Continuous Wave ◽  
Varicose Veins ◽  
Duplex Ultrasound ◽  
Venous Hypertension ◽  
Venous Reflux ◽  
Reduced Pressure ◽  
Continuous Wave Doppler ◽  
Valvular Insufficiency

Usually, venous insufficiency affecting an extremity results from elevated pressure, whereas arterial insufficiency usually is caused by reduced pressure energy. Except when caused by arteriovenous fistulae, elevated venous pressures are caused by obstruction to outflow and/or by incompetence of the venous valves, particularly at popliteal level and in the calf perforator veins. In the lower extremity, such elevated venous pressures can result in chronic changes that cause symptoms and/or signs that range from “tired legs” to ulceration. Although mild venous hypertension may constitute only a relative inconvenience such as varicose veins, more severe cases can lead to debilitating ulceration that may demand a change in lifestyle. Assessing an extremity for venous valvular insufficiency means detecting venous reflux. This work describes the plethysmographic, continuous-wave Doppler, and duplex ultrasound imaging modalities that can be used for detecting venous reflux in the deep, superficial, and perforating veins. Although plethysmographic and continuous-wave Doppler modalities have been supplanted largely by duplex ultrasound imaging, they have been included for completeness because they can continue to fulfill a role in overall functional assessment. Whatever the testing modality used to assess venous reflux, it is essential to verify the patency of the deep veins before any intervention in the superficial venous system.

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