Clinical dynamics of varicose disease in patients with high degree of venous reflux during conservative treatment and after surgery: 7-year follow-up

Abstract

183 patients (195 limbs) with primary femoral vein reflux were evaluated to relate valvular insufficiency and clinical results of elastic compression (68 limbs), saphenectomy (75 limbs), and valvuloplasty (52 limbs). Duplex scanning and calculating of Reflux Volume Index (RI) were performed before surgery and up to nine years of follow-up. Strong correlation between hemodynamic changes and results of treatment was found. Reulceration and recurrence were found in 74% of extremities with increasing leakage and in 14% of extremities with stable valve function. All 38 extremities with improved valvular function were free of ulcers and recurrent varicose veins. The success of surgical treatment in extremities with primary femoral vein reflux is associated with valvular function improvement. Elastic compression alone has poor clinical and hemodynamic results. Valvuloplasty significantly improves the results of surgical treatment.