Is the nihilistic approach to surgical reduction of superficial and perforator vein incompetence for venous ulcer justified?

OBJECTIVE: Twenty-five years ago, the senior author showed a 55% postoperative ulcer recurrence rate after open perforator ligation. Those data contributed to a nihilistic attitude toward incompetent perforating veins. Conversely, since the introduction of subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery (SEPS), we have undertaken ablation of superficial and perforator reflux as initial treatment in patients with ulcers (C6) or healed ulcers (C5). This report outlines our long-term results. METHODS: Between December 1994 and November 1999, SEPS was performed on 51 limbs in 45 patients with C5/C6 disease. Sixteen limbs underwent SEPS alone, and 35 had additional surgery on the greater saphenous vein (GSV), the lesser saphenous vein, or the tributary varicies. Data were collected according to the reporting standards in venous disease. Preoperative duplex scan of deep, superficial, and perforating veins was performed. Data were analyzed with Kaplan-Meier method, Mantel-Cox log-rank test, or t test. RESULTS: Of the 51 limbs that underwent SEPS, the GSV was stripped in 28. Twenty-nine were C6, and 22 were C5. Etiology was primary (Ep) in 25 limbs and secondary (Es) in 26 limbs. All limbs had duplex scan evidence of perforator incompetence (Ap), and deep insufficiency (A(D)) was seen in 39 cases (76%). Reflux predominated (P(R)). The clinical follow-up period was 0 to 82 months (median, 38 months). Venous disability scores improved from 9.8 before surgery to 4.2 at last follow-up (P <.05). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed 74% healing at 6 months. The presence of an ulcer more than 2 cm in diameter, secondary etiology, and SEPS without concomitant GSV stripping were associated (P <.05) with delayed healing. Among patients in whom ulcers healed or who were seen with healed ulcers, the 5-year ulcer recurrence rate was 13%. Lesser saphenous vein reflux was the only factor that correlated with increased ulcer recurrence. Deep system reflux as measured with duplex scan valve closure times did not correlate with the rate of ulcer healing or recurrence. CONCLUSION: Nihilism has no place in the management of venous disease in the 21st century. An aggressive approach to superficial and perforating vein reflux in this cohort of patients with C5 and C6 disease resulted in rapid ulcer healing and low 5-year recurrence rates. Prior saphenous vein stripping, large ulcers, and secondary etiology were associated with delayed healing. A less aggressive posture toward lesser saphenous vein reflux contributed to a higher recurrence rate in this subgroup of patients. These risk factors are useful in counseling patients as to their expected postoperative course; however, no combination of factors should a priori preclude surgical intervention in this group of patients.     

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目的：探讨下肢原发性静脉返流性疾病的综合外科治疗效果,方法：从1996年2月至2000年9月,对患者肢原发性静脉返流性疾病的108例126条肢体进行了综合性外科手术治疗,所有肢体均行浅静脉手术,83例97条肢体在浅静脉手术同时行股静脉瓣外修复成形成,22例26条同时行股静脉瓣膜外修成形术＋腔镜筋膜下交通静脉结扎术（SEPS）,3例3条同时行SEPS。结果：80．2％（１０１／１２６）的患肢静脉性跛行,酸胀,疼痛等症状消失,１９．８％（２５／１２６）的患肢状明显改善,所有肢体静脉曲线消失,行浅和深静脉系统手术的肢体中有１０条合并溃疡,术后３－６个月,有８条溃疡愈合,２条明显缩小,在浅或（和）深静脉手术基础上加作ＳＥＰＳ的２３例２６条肢体的静脉性溃疡,有２４条术后１４－３2d愈合,２条也明显缩小,全组经彩超复查８９．７％的肢体深静脉瓣膜功能恢复正常,结论：对重度下肢原发性静脉返流性疾病人的浅静脉,深静脉和交通静脉三个系统的疾病变同时综合性的给予外科治疗,可大大提高临床疗效。     

Reduction in deep vein reflux after concomitant subfascial endoscopic perforating vein surgery and superficial vein ablation in advanced primary chronic venous insufficiency

BACKGROUND: Subfascial endoscopic perforating vein surgery (SEPS) and superficial vein surgery (SVS) have been the recommended treatment for advanced chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), despite a high prevalence of deep vein reflux in these patients. The anatomic and hemodynamic results of these procedures, however, remain uncertain. It is hypothesized that concomitant SEPS and SVS would result in a reduction of deep vein reflux in patients with advanced primary CVI. We investigated the effect of concomitant SEPS and SVS on deep vein reflux as well as the associated hemodynamic and clinical changes after surgery in a cohort of patients with advanced primary CVI. METHODS: We prospectively evaluated 53 consecutive SEPSs with concomitant SVS procedures in 47 patients with advanced primary CVI. There were 25 men and 22 women with a mean age of 58 years at operation. Thirty-four procedures (64%) were performed for limbs with active venous ulcers (class 6), and the other 19 procedures were performed for 15 class 5 limbs, one class 4a limb, and three class 4b limbs, respectively. Duplex scan and air plethysmography were performed before operation, at 1 month, and at 1 year after operation. The patients were followed up regularly with clinical assessment, and the ulcer healing and recurrence rates were documented. RESULTS: The proportion of limbs with common femoral vein incompetence decreased from 68% to 28% at 1 month and to 32% at 1 year after operation. The proportion of limbs with deep vein incompetence at more than one site also decreased from 42% to 15% at 1 month and to 12% at 1 year after concomitant SEPS and SVS. Venous hemodynamics as measured by air plethysmography improved significantly after operation. The cumulative ulcer healing was 85% at 3 months and 97% at 6 months. With a mean follow-up of 31 +/- 16 months, all ulcers healed. Only three recurrent ulcers (6%) were detected during the follow-up period. CONCLUSION: Concomitant SEPS and SVS are effective in reducing deep vein reflux and results in hemodynamic and clinical improvements in patients with advanced primary CVI. Deep vein reconstruction procedures may not be necessary in these patients.     

Mid-term results of endoscopic perforator vein interruption for chronic venous insufficiency: lessons learned from the North American subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery registry. The North American Study Group

PURPOSE: The safety, feasibility, and early efficacy of subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery (SEPS) for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency were established in a preliminary report. The long-term clinical outcome and the late complications after SEPS are as yet undetermined. METHODS: The North American Subfascial Endoscopic Perforator Surgery registry collected information on 148 SEPS procedures that were performed in 17 centers in the United States and Canada between August 1, 1993, and February 15, 1996. The data analysis in this study focused on mid-term outcome in 146 patients. RESULTS: One hundred forty-six patients (79 men and 67 women; mean age, 56 years; range, 27 to 87 years) underwent SEPS. One hundred and one patients (69%) had active ulcers (class 6), and 21 (14%) had healed ulcers (class 5). One hundred and three patients (71%) underwent concomitant venous procedures (stripping, 70; high ligation, 17; varicosity avulsion alone, 16). There were no deaths or pulmonary embolisms. One deep venous thrombosis occurred at 2 months. The follow-up periods averaged 24 months (range, 1 to 53 months). Cumulative ulcer healing at 1 year was 88% (median time to healing, 54 days). Concomitant ablation of superficial reflux and lack of deep venous obstruction predicted ulcer healing (P <.05). Clinical score improved from 8.93 to 3.98 at the last follow-up (P <. 0001). Cumulative ulcer recurrence at 1 year was 16% and at 2 years was 28% (standard error, < 10%). Post-thrombotic limbs had a higher 2-year cumulative recurrence rate (46%) than did those limbs with primary valvular incompetence (20%; P <.05). Twenty-eight of the 122 patients (23%) who had class 5 or class 6 ulcers before surgery had an active ulcer at the last follow-up examination. CONCLUSIONS: The interruption of perforators with ablation of superficial reflux is effective in decreasing the symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency and rapidly healing ulcers. Recurrence or new ulcer development, however, is still significant, particularly in post-thrombotic limbs. The reevaluation of the indications for SEPS is warranted because operations in patients without previous deep vein thrombosis are successful but operations in those patients with deep vein thrombosis are less successful. Operations on patients with deep vein occlusion have poor outcomes.     

Early clinical outcomes after subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery (SEPS) and saphenous vein surgery in chronic venous insufficiency

BACKGROUND: Subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery (SEPS) has recently become popular as a minimally invasive way to treat chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) of the lower extremities. We report the early clinical outcomes of SEPS and saphenous vein surgery in a prospective series of Chinese patients who presented with severe CVI. METHODS: All patients referred to our hospital for the management of severe CVI (class IV disease or above) after January 1998 underwent SEPS using an ultrasonic scalpel in conjunction with saphenous vein surgery. All patients were followed up prospectively to assess ulcer healing, ulcer recurrence, and symptoms after SEPS. Clinical outcome was evaluated by the scoring system suggested by the Consensus Committee of the American Venous Forum on Chronic Venous Disease. RESULTS: Over a 24-month period, we performed 36 SEPS on 31 patients. Nineteen lower extremities (53%) had active or healing ulcers. Sapheno-femoral ligation was also performed in 33 limbs (92%). Four limbs (11%) developed superficial wound infection, and two (6%) had saphenous nerve dysesthesia. The mean clinical score and disability score decreased from 8.42 to 3.42 and 1.45 to 0.31 respectively, after a median follow-up of 14 months (range, 6-22) (p < 0.005). Eleven ulcers (58%) healed within 6 weeks after surgery. At 1-year follow-up, ulcer recurrence was found in two legs (11%). Conclusion: SEPS is safe and feasible. Early clinical results have shown a promising outcome in patients with severe chronic venous insufficiency.     

Surgical treatment for advanced chronic venous insufficiency in Hong Kong

Advanced chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is an important health problem. In Hong Kong, with its predominantly Chinese population, most patients have primary CVI because deep vein thrombosis is less common. Nevertheless, 80% of the limbs with advanced CVI had reflux in both the superficial and deep vein systems. This showed that advanced CVI in this population is a multisystem pathological condition affecting both the superficial and deep vein systems. In the present study, it was hypothesized that the abnormal hydrostatic forces in the superficial and perforating vein systems are the significant pathologic forces leading to advanced CVI, although deep vein incompetence is common. This deep vein incompetence can be contributed to significantly by venous overload as a result of superficial reflux (reflux circuit of venous overload). This is well supported by the abolition of deep venous reflux as well as significant haemodynamic improvement as measured by air plethysmography after superficial vein surgery in limbs with mixed superficial and deep venous incompetence. Recently, subfascial endoscopic perforating vein surgery (SEPS) was introduced as a minimally invasive technique to interrupt incompetent calf perforators. Preliminary local experience showed that SEPS with concomitant superficial vein surgery was associated with a 97% ulcer healing at a mean follow up of 15 months. Significant haemodynamic improvement was also shown by air plethysmography. However, recurrent ulcers were noted in 15% of the limbs. Thus, SEPS with superficial vein surgery where appropriate can be the optimal operative treatment strategy for advanced CVI in the local population, although ulcer recurrence remains a concern.      

Role of superficial venous surgery in patients with combined superficial and segmental deep venous reflux.

OBJECTIVES: superficial venous surgery heals chronic venous ulceration (CVU) in the majority of patients with isolated superficial venous reflux (SVR). This study examines the role of superficial venous surgery in patients with combined SVR and segmental deep venous reflux (DVR). METHODS: combined SVR and segmental DVR was diagnosed by venous duplex in 53 limbs in 49 patients (24 men and 25 women of median age 66, range 27-90, years). Fourteen limbs had varicose veins (CEAP class 2-4) and 39 (74%) had active CVU (CEAP class 6). Duplex ultrasound was performed before and three months after local anaesthetic superficial venous surgery. Perforator vein surgery, skin grafting and compression bandaging or hosiery were not used. RESULTS: forty-two limbs with long saphenous vein (LSV) reflux underwent sapheno-femoral disconnection, 10 with short saphenous vein (SSV) reflux underwent sapheno-popliteal disconnection and one limb with LSV and SSV reflux had sapheno-femoral and sapheno-popliteal disconnection. Segmental DVR was confined to the superficial femoral vein (SFV) in 16 limbs, below knee popliteal vein (BKPV) in 25 and gastrocnemius vein (GV) in 12 limbs. Overall, duplex demonstrated post-operative resolution of segmental DVR in 26 of 53 (49%) limbs. Resolution of segmental SFV reflux occurred in 12 of 16 (75%) limbs compared with 14 of 37 (38%) limbs with segmental BKPV or GV reflux (p=0.018). Segmental DVR resolved in 19 of 39 (49%) limbs with CVU and ulcer healing occurred in 30 of 39 (77%) limbs at 12 months with a median time to healing of 61 (range 14-352) days. Segmental DVR resolved in 14 of 30 (47%) limbs with a healed ulcer: 7 of 9 (78%) limbs with SFV and 7 of 21 (33%) with BKPV or GV reflux (p=0.046). CONCLUSIONS: these data demonstrate that in patients with combined SVR and segmental DVR, superficial venous surgery alone corrects DVR in almost 50% of limbs and is associated with ulcer healing in 77% of limbs at 12 months. These findings suggest an extended role for superficial venous surgery in the management of patients with complicated venous disease.     

Deep venous thrombosis and superficial venous reflux

OBJECTIVE: Although superficial venous reflux is an important determinant of post-thrombotic skin changes, the origin of this reflux is unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the frequency and etiologic mechanisms of superficial venous reflux after acute deep venous thrombosis (DVT). METHODS: Patients with a documented acute lower extremity DVT were asked to return for serial venous duplex ultrasound examinations at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, every 3 months for the first year, and every year thereafter. Reflux in the greater saphenous vein (GSV) and lesser saphenous vein (LSV) was assessed by standing distal pneumatic cuff deflation. RESULTS: Sixty-six patients with a DVT in 69 lower extremities were followed up for a mean of 48 (SD +/- 32) months. Initial thrombosis of the GSV was noted in 15 limbs (21.7%). At 8 years, the cumulative incidence of GSV reflux was 77.1% (SE +/- 0.11) in DVT limbs with GSV involvement, 28.9% (+/- 0.09%) in DVT limbs without GSV thrombosis, and 14.8% (+/- 0.05) in uninvolved contralateral limbs (P <.0001). For LSV reflux, the cumulative incidence in DVT limbs was 23.1% (+/- 0.06%) in comparison with 10% (+/- 0.06%) in uninvolved limbs (P =.06). In comparison with uninvolved contralateral limbs, the relative risk of GSV reflux for DVT limbs with and without GSV thrombosis was 8.7 (P <.001) and 1.4 (P =.5), respectively. The relative risk of LSV reflux in thrombosed extremities compared with uninvolved extremities was 3.2 (P =.07). Despite these observations, the fraction of observed GSV reflux that could be attributable to superficial thrombosis was only 49%. CONCLUSIONS: Superficial venous thrombosis frequently accompanies DVT and is associated with development of superficial reflux in most limbs. However, a substantial proportion of observed reflux is not directly associated with thrombosis and develops at a rate equivalent to that in uninvolved limbs.     

True long-term healing and recurrence of venous leg ulcers following SEPS combined with superficial venous surgery: a prospective study.

BACKGROUND: The role of perforator surgery remains unclear in the management of patients with leg ulcers. The aim of this study was to assess long-term healing and recurrence rates of leg ulcers following surgical intervention with combined Subfascial Endoscopic Perforator Surgery (SEPS) and superficial venous surgery. METHOD: Case series with prospective long-term follow-up of 90 consecutive patients operated on with open (CEAP C6) or healed (CEAP C5) venous ulcers in 97 legs. Popliteal vein reflux was present in 21 legs. All 97 legs were treated with SEPS and 87% had additional superficial venous surgery. Patients were follow-up for a median of 77 months (range 60-112 months) with a minimum of 5 years. RESULTS: 87% of all ulcerated legs healed. The three and five year recurrence rates were 8% and 18% respectively among survivors. In a multivariate Cox regression analysis previous vein surgery was the only factor significantly associated with recurrent ulceration (p=.004). CONCLUSION: SEPS combined with superficial venous surgery leads to healing with a low recurrence rate in patients with open and healed venous ulcers. Previous venous surgery was found to be a significant risk factor for ulcer recurrence. This result emphasizes the importance of assiduous technique for varicose vein surgery and suggests a continuing role for perforator surgery in leg ulcer patients.     

股浅静脉瓣膜外修复成形术后血流动力学动态变化74例分析

目的检测股浅静脉瓣膜外修复成形术后血流动力学动态变化 ,以分析其治疗下肢深静脉瓣膜功能不全的疗效。方法回顾性分析原发性下肢深静脉瓣膜功能不全 74例 ( 96条肢体 )的资料 ,利用流速剖面图彩超和空气体积描记仪分别于术前、术后 1、3个月及 1年进行血流动力学指标检测并进行统计学分析。结果全组术后静脉返流量、灌注指数、静脉功能不全评分指标于术后 1、3个月、1年均较术前显著降低 (P <0 0 1)。而射血分数、剩余容积分数均值于术后 3个月、1年较术前明显改善 (P <0 0 1)。溃疡愈合率达 78 8% ( 2 6 /33) ,术后 93 6 %的肢体各种症状体征消失和明显缓解。结论股浅静脉瓣膜外修复成形术可显著改善血流动力学状况 ,对治疗原发性下肢深静脉瓣膜功能不全及静脉性溃疡有确切疗效     

内镜下交通支结扎治疗下肢复发性静脉性溃疡

摘要：目的: 探讨内镜深筋膜下结扎交通支治疗下肢复发性静脉性溃疡的疗效。方法:手术治疗50例(56条)下肢复发性静脉性溃疡患者，行内镜下交通支静脉离断术，对术后溃疡愈合情况进行1~3年随访。 结果:55条下肢溃疡在10~49d内愈合，1条90d未愈，行小隐静脉高位结扎术后溃疡愈合。随访1~3年，6个月后复发1例，抗炎换药后愈合。18个月后2条复发，再行小隐静脉高位结扎术后溃疡愈合。 结论:腔镜深筋膜下交通支静脉结扎术安全有效，损伤小，并发症少，是治疗下肢复发性静脉性溃疡较为有效的方法。     

Die chirurgische Therapie des Ulcus cruris

Chronic venous disease causing leg ulceration is an important socio-economic burden in western societies due to considerable patient discomfort and disability, loss of working days and high costs for a long-term therapy. Adequate treatment of venous ulcers requires competence in Angiology plus Vascular Surgery. Therapy aims at reduction of venous hypertension and promotion of ulcer healing. Improved and durable results of treatment are shown, if vein surgery is performed in addition to conservative strategies. Ulcer healing rates after subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery (SEPS) differ between 83% and 100%. Ulcer recurrence after a median observation period between 19.5 months and 5 years is seen in 0% to 27%. Using “Shave therapy” plus vein surgery in several studies, after a period between 9.5 and 51.5 months ulcer healing rates were 77.5 to 88%. However, secondary procedures after shaving were necessary in 28% on average. Fasciectomy and valve reconstruction of insufficient deep veins may be considered for persisting ulcers. Our own recent analysis included 103 consecutively operated legs with active or recently healed venous ulcers. After SEPS procedure, which was frequently combined with superficial vein surgery, 93% of ulcers healed after a median observation period of 3 years. Recurrent ulcers developed in 8% of patients, and 85% of the operated patients remained free of ulceration. Quality of life (QOL) is improved after ulcer healing. In our own series, 72% of patients with healed ulcers improved their QOL, in contrast to 45% in the group with persistent or recurrent ulcers. Only one third of the patients without improved QOL despite ulcer healing had discomfort related to surgery and / or ulcer scars. High ulcer healing rates after vein surgery, associated high patients acceptance and improved QOL indicate, that vein surgery is clearly beneficial for the majority of patients with venous leg ulceration.     

腔镜深筋膜下交通静脉结扎治疗下肢静脉曲张

目的　观察腔镜深筋膜下交通静脉结扎 (SEPS)在下肢静脉曲张治疗中的疗效。　方法　 1 999年 1 1月～ 2 0 0 0年 1 2月手术治疗静脉曲张 1 0 8例 ,其中 34例 41侧患肢行 SEPS。男 1 6例 ,女 1 8例 ,年龄 2 0～ 79岁。病程 1～45年 ,平均 1 6.1年。双下肢病变 7例。 2 6例 30侧患肢有静脉性溃疡 ,溃疡直径 1 .5～ 1 2 .0 cm不等 ;8例 1 1侧患肢有色素沉着 ,皮肤病损 1个月～ 1 5年。根据病情分别或同时选用大隐静脉高位结扎和抽剥、小腿曲张浅静脉连续环形缝扎、股静脉瓣膜外修复成形和 SEPS术。　结果　 34例手术顺利 ;术后 1 9侧患肢溃疡 1个月内愈合 ,7侧患肢溃疡 3个月内愈合 ,4侧患肢行游离植皮后溃疡愈合。经术后 9～ 2 2个月的随访 ,溃疡无复发。　结论　 SEPS促进了静脉性溃疡的愈合 ,是治疗下肢静脉功能不全的重要方法之一。     

Mid-term recurrence rate of incompetent perforating veins after combined superficial vein surgery and subfascial endoscopic perforating vein surgery

BACKGROUND: This study investigated the mid-term (mean, 3.7 years) clinical results and the results of duplex Doppler sonographic examinations of subfascial endoscopic perforating vein surgery (SEPS) in patients with mild to severe chronic venous insufficiency (clinical class 2-6) and assessed the factors associated with the recurrence of insufficient perforating veins (IPVs). METHODS: Eighty patients with mild to severe chronic venous insufficiency undergoing SEPS were evaluated, and duplex findings, as well as clinical severity and disability scores before and after the operation, were compared. Patients with prior deep vein thrombosis (<6 months) or prior SEPS were excluded from this study. RESULTS: There were 27 men and 53 women with a median age of 59.8 years (range, 34.3-80.0 years). The distribution of clinical classes (CEAP) was as follows: class 2, 13.1% (12 limbs); class 3, 22.8% (21 limbs); class 4, 19.6% (18 limbs); class 5, 21.7% (20 limbs); and class 6, 22.8% (21 limbs). The etiology of venous insufficiency was primary valvular incompetence in 83 limbs (90.2%) and secondary disease in 9 limbs (9.8%). Concomitant superficial vein surgery was performed in 89 limbs (95.7%). Twenty (95%) leg ulcers healed spontaneously within 12 weeks after operation, whereas one patient required additional split-thickness skin grafting. Eighteen patients had previous surgery of the great and/or short saphenous vein before SEPS. During a mean follow-up of 3.7 years, recurrence of 22 IPVs was observed in 20 (21.7%) of 92 limbs, and recurrent leg ulcers were observed in 2 (9.5%) of 21 limbs. We performed univariate and multivariate analyses to predict factors influencing the recurrence of IPVs (recurrent superficial varicosis, secondary disease, active or healed leg ulcer [C5/6], compression treatment, and previous operation). On multivariate analysis, previous surgery (P = .014) was identified as the only significant factor for the recurrence of IPVs. CONCLUSIONS: SEPS is a safe and highly effective treatment for IPVs. Within a median follow-up period of 3.7 years, only 2 of 21 venous ulcers recurred, both in patients with secondary disease. Nevertheless, we observed recurrence of IPVs in 21.7% of the operated limbs. On multivariate analysis, patients who had undergone previous surgery were found to have a significantly higher rate of recurrence.     

Subfascial endoscopic perforator vein surgery in patients with post-thrombotic venous insufficiency--is it justified?

Previous results following subfascial endoscopic perforator vein surgery were reported to be worse in post-thrombotic syndrome than in limbs with primary valvular incompetence. This report comprises a larger patient cohort with longer follow-up. The goal of this study was to determine if subfascial endoscopic perforator vein surgery is justified in patients with post-thrombotic venous insufficiency. The clinical data of 91 consecutive patients who underwent subfascial endoscopic perforator vein surgery with or without superficial reflux ablation over a 7-year period from May 1993 to June 2000 were retrospectively analyzed. Fifty-four females and 37 males (median age, 53 years; range, 20-77) underwent 103 subfascial endoscopic perforator vein surgery procedures. Forty-two limbs were classified as C6 (active ulcer), 34 as C5 (healed ulcer), and 24 as C4 (lipodermatosclerosis). Thirty procedures were performed in post-thrombotic limbs. Concomitant superficial reflux ablation was performed in 74 limbs (72%); saphenous vein stripping had been previously performed in 29 (28%). Deep venous incompetence was present in 89% of limbs; 13% had venous outflow obstruction on plethysmography. Cumulative ulcer healing in post-thrombotic limbs was not significantly different from limbs with primary valvular incompetence; 30-, 60-, and 90-day healing rates were 44%, 72%, and 72% vs 39%, 70%, and 87%, respectively (p = 0.35). On univariate analysis, the presence of ulcer greater than 2 cm in diameter was associated with delayed ulcer healing (p = 0.02). Cumulative ulcer recurrence in all limbs was 4%, 20%, and 27% at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. Ulcer recurrence in post-thrombotic limbs was higher than in limbs with primary valvular incompetence at 1, 3, and 5 years; 16%, 47%, and 56% vs 0%, 8%, and 15%, respectively (p = 0.001). Recurrent ulcers were small, superficial, and easier to heal. Clinical improvement was significant even in post-thrombotic limbs; median clinical score decreased from 9.5 to 3 (p = 0.001), and median outcome score was +2 (mean 1.9; range, -1 to 3). Median clinical score in patients with primary valvular incompetence improved from 6 to 1.5 (p = 0.0001). Subfascial endoscopic perforator vein surgery with superficial reflux ablation promoted ulcer healing, improved clinical outcome, and resulted in a low long-term ulcer recurrence rate in limbs with primary valvular incompetence. Despite good clinical outcome in post-thrombotic limbs, ulcer recurrence was high. These results imply that the role of subfascial endoscopic perforator vein surgery with superficial reflux ablation in patients with post-thrombotic limbs continues to be controversial.     

Randomized clinical trial of the effect of adding subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery to standard great saphenous vein stripping

BACKGROUND: This randomized trial was undertaken to investigate the fate of incompetent perforating veins (IPVs) following saphenofemoral ligation and stripping of the great saphenous vein (GSV), with or without subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery (SEPS). METHODS: Patients with venous reflux (greater than 0.5 s) of the GSV and additional IPVs were allocated randomly to standard surgery (saphenofemoral ligation, stripping and phlebectomies alone) or with the addition of SEPS. Patients with ulceration, recurrent veins, deep venous reflux/thrombosis or saphenopopliteal reflux were excluded. Duplex ultrasonography was carried out before operation, and at 1 week, 6 weeks, 6 months and 1 year after surgery. Quality of life questionnaires were completed and visual analogue scale scores collected at the same time points. RESULTS: Thirty-eight patients were allocated to SEPS and 34 to the no SEPS group. Two patients in the no SEPS group were excluded (one withdrew and the other had the wrong treatment). There were no differences between the two groups with respect to pain, mobility or quality of life scores during follow-up. A significantly higher proportion of patients in the no SEPS group had IPVs on duplex imaging at 1 year (25 of 32 versus 12 of 38; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: IPVs do not remain closed following standard varicose vein surgery. The addition of SEPS was not associated with significant morbidity but did reduce the number of IPVs. Up to 1 year this had no effect on recurrence rates or quality of life, but late results remain to be seen. Registration number: ISRCTN18288048 (http://www.controlled-trials.com).     

Endoscopic subfascial perforator vein surgery for patients with severe, chronic venous insufficiency

Before 1985, surgery on incompetent perforator veins in patients with severe, chronic, venous insufficiency and venous ulcerations was generally performed utilizing long skin incisions through diseased skin and subcutaneous tissues. Known as "the Linton operation," wound infections and poor healing complicated this procedure. In 1985 G. Hauer demonstrated a new surgical technique for identifying and ligating incompetent perforator veins using an endoscopic approach in the limbs' subfascial space. This seminal contribution marked the advent of subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery (SEPS). From 1996 to 2003 our group prospectively collected data on 86 patients with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) who underwent a SEPS procedure. Preoperative assessment consisted of color-flow duplex ultrasound scanning and ascending and descending phlebography. The patient's ages ranged from 42 to 82 years (mean 60). A total of 98 limbs underwent the SEPS procedure from the cohort group of 86 patients. The CHEAP classification of the limb disease was used: 45 limbs were classified as group C5, 53 limbs group C6. Ninety-eight SEPS procedures were performed without significant morbidity on 86 patients. Of the 53 limbs in class C6, 41 had ulcer healing within 12 weeks. The remaining 12 limbs in class C6 had ulcer healing within 6 months. In this latter group, 9 had ulcers greater than 4 cm in widest diameter. These patients underwent a split-thickness skin graft at the time the SEPS procedure was performed. The grafts have remained intact after 2 years in this cohort group. The results of this study demonstrate that the SEPS procedure incorporated into the overall treatment plan for patients with CVI produces excellent healing with minimal postoperative complications. The study also underscores the important role incompetent perforator veins have in the formation of venous ulcers.     

透光直视旋切术与腔镜深筋膜下结扎交通支静脉在静脉性溃疡治疗中的疗效比较研究

目的比较透光直视旋切术(TriVex)与腔镜深筋膜下结扎交通支静脉(SEPS)治疗静脉溃疡的效果。方法将我院在2009年1月至2011年6月间收治的静脉溃疡患者根据住院单双号分为TriVex组和SEPS组。TriVex组行大隐静脉高位结扎、抽剥和TriVex静脉旋切系统旋切术,对溃疡周围浅静脉予完全刨除;SEPS组行大隐静脉高位结扎、抽剥和腔镜深筋膜下结扎交通支静脉,对小腿曲张静脉及溃疡周围静脉行点状抽剥术。比较两组患者在溃疡愈合率、愈合时间及术后溃疡复发率的差异。结果两组患者的溃疡愈合率、愈合时间及溃疡复发率比较,差异无统计学意义(P>0.05),且均未发生深静脉血栓形成等严重并发症,但SEPS组术后皮下淤血或局部皮肤麻木感等轻微并发症高于TriVex组,而患者满意率低于TriVex组,两组差异有统计学意义(P<0.05)。结论 TriVex和SEPS均可有效治疗静脉溃疡,但SEPS可能会出现更多的皮下淤血或局部皮肤麻木感等轻微并发症,患者对TriVex的满意度更高。     

Endoscopic perforator vein division with ablation of superficial reflux improves venous hemodynamics

Purpose: Hemodynamic consequences of incompetent perforator vein interruption have not been well documented. The effects of perforator interruption, with or without ablation of superficial venous reflux, on venous function in patients with advanced chronic venous insufficiency was studied. Methods: Calf muscle pump function, venous incompetence, and outflow obstruction were assessed by means of strain-gauge plethysmography (SGP) before and within 6 months after subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery (SEPS). SEPS was performed with laparoscopic instrumentation and CO₂ insufflation. Concomitant high ligation or saphenous vein stripping was performed in 24 limbs (77%). Results: Twenty-six patients, 18 women and 8 men, with a mean age of 50 years (range, 20 to 77 years) underwent SEPS. Preoperative evaluation confirmed superficial reflux in 65% of limbs, deep venous reflux in 77% of limbs, and perforator incompetence in 97% of limbs. All limbs had advanced venous dysfunction (C3, C4, C5, C6). All active ulcers (C6, n = 12) healed after surgery (mean, 32 ± 3 days), and only 1 recurred during a mean follow-up period of 11 months (range, 1 to 43 months). Clinical score improved from 6.58 ± 0.50 to 2.19 ± 0.25 (P < .0001). Improved calf muscle pump function was demonstrated by means of postoperative SGP and was indicated by increased refill volume (RV: 0.27 ± 0.06 vs 0.64 ± 0.10 mL/100 mL tissue, P < .01). Venous incompetence also improved, as evidenced by prolonged duration to refill after exercise (T90: 7.71 ± 1.20 vs 16.71 ± 1.98 seconds, P < .001) and a decrease in RV after passive drainage (3.23 ± 0.19 vs 2.63 ± 0.15 mL/100 mL tissue, P < .01). Improved refill rate (RR) correlated with improvements in clinical scores (P < .01, r = 0.77). Conclusion: SEPS with ablation of superficial reflux improved calf muscle pump function, reduced venous incompetence, and produced excellent midterm clinical results. However, functional improvement directly related to SEPS requires further investigation. This study supports adding SEPS to ablation of superficial reflux in patients with advanced chronic venous insufficiency. (J Vasc Surg 1998;28:839-47.)     

腔镜深筋膜下交通静脉结扎术后下肢动态静脉压的变化研究

目的：研究腔镜深筋膜下交通静脉结扎术（SEPS）治疗下肢静脉曲张效果的血流动力学依据。方法：对44例SEPS患者和同期42例单纯大隐静脉高位结扎加剥脱术（GSVS）患者手术前后的患侧下肢动态静脉压进行测定和比较研究。结果：2组术后静息压（P0）、挤压后静脉压（PCVP）、不挤压后4s时压力（4SP）较术前均显著下降;术后压力降低百分比较术前显著升高;在静脉压力逐渐恢复过程中,RT50显著延长。SEPS后P0、PCVP、4SP、RT50变化较GSVS患者更加明显。结论：SEPS对下肢动态静脉压改善比GSVS更加显著。