Duplex ultrasound scan findings two years after great saphenous vein radiofrequency endovenous obliteration

OBJECTIVE: To assess the clinical and duplex ultrasound scan findings in the groin and thigh 2 years after great saphenous vein (GSV) radiofrequency endovenous obliteration (RFO). METHODS: Sixty-three limbs in 56 patients with symptomatic varicose veins and GSV incompetence were treated with RFO, usually with adjunctive stab-avulsion phlebectomies, and examined at a median follow-up of 25 months, by using a color-coded, duplex sonography protocol that mandated views in at least two planes of the saphenofemoral junction (SFJ) and its tributaries and at three GSV levels in the thigh. RESULTS: The commonest duplex finding in the groin was an open, competent, SFJ with a < or =5-cm patent terminal GSV segment conducting prograde tributary flow through the SFJ (82%). Despite the presence of a total of 104 patent junctional tributaries, SFJ reflux was uncommon, affecting only five limbs. GSV truncal occlusion was observed in 90% of treated GSVs. Limited segmental treatment was successful in three limbs with a midthigh reflux source well below competent terminal and subterminal valves. Six GSV trunks had partial or no occlusion, but only one refluxed. These were anatomical RFO failures (9.5%) but were clinically improved, including the refluxing limb. Neovascularity was not identified in any groin. Thigh varicosities were observed in 12 limbs, including telangiectasias and isolated small tributary branches. New varicosities, linked to refluxing thigh perforators (two), or patent SFJ tributaries (three), were present in five limbs. CONCLUSION: RFO is the ideological opposite of high ligation without GSV stripping. It leaves physiologic tributary flow relatively undisturbed, does not incite groin neovascularity, eliminates the GSV as a refluxing conduit in >90% of limbs and has a 2-year, postadjunctive phlebectomy varicosity prevalence of 7.9%, with symptom score improvement in 95% of limbs with an initial score higher than zero.     

Sapheno-femoral Junction Reflux in Patients with a Normal Saphenous Trunk

OBJECTIVE: To determine the patterns and clinical importance of saphenofemoral junction (SFJ) reflux in patients with chronic venous disease (CVD) and a normal great saphenous vein (GSV) trunk. METHODS: Fifteen hundred consecutive patients were examined using duplex ultrasound (DU) in three centres. Patients with reflux involving the SFJ and/or its tributaries only were included and its prevalence and patterns were studied. Patients with GSV trunk reflux or in any other veins were excluded. The SFJ diameter was categorised as normal, dilated or varicose. The results of surgery were evaluated by DU in 42 patients 1 year after the procedure. RESULTS: SFJ area incompetence with a competent GSV trunk occurred in 8.8% of limbs. It was significantly more common in CEAP class 2, 13.6% compared to class 3, 8.2% (p=0.03), class 1, 2.7%, class 4, 4.4% and classes 5 and 6 together, 1.5% (p<0.001 for all). The SFJ had a normal diameter in 21%, dilated in 62% and varicose in 17%. Reflux was seen in 39% of limbs with a normal SFJ diameter, in 85% of those with a dilated SFJ and in all varicose SFJs. Of the 42 operated limbs, 27 had ligation and division of the SFJ and tributary phlebectomies. Fifteen had tributary phlebectomies only, leaving the SFJ intact. At one-year follow-up, SFJ area reflux was found in six limbs (14.3%), involving the SFJ alone in 1, a main tributary in 1 and 4 small tributaries. No reflux was found in the GSV trunk. All but two of the 42 patients were satisfied with the results. CONCLUSIONS: SFJ reflux with tributary involvement and sparing of the GSV trunk occurs in 8.8% of CVD patients. Such reflux is found in the entire spectrum of CVD, but it is more common in class 2. Local surgery with or without SFJ ligation has very good results at 1 year. DU scanning prior to treatment is important in all patients so that the intact GSV can be spared.     

Durability of reflux-elimination by a minimal invasive CHIVA procedure on patients with varicose veins. A 3-year prospective case study.

OBJECTIVES: to assess the outcome of a conservative and haemodynamic method for insufficient veins on an ambulatory basis (French acronym, "CHIVA") with preservation of the greater saphenous vein (GSV) for treatment of primary varicose veins. METHODS: duplex incompetence of the sapheno-femoral junction (SFJ) and the GSV trunk, with the re-entry perforating point located on a GSV tributary was demonstrated in 58 patients with varices (58 limbs). The re-entry point was defined as the perforator, whose compression of the superficial vein above its opening eliminates reflux in the GSV. Duplex scanning was performed preoperatively and at 7 days, and patients were followed prospectively at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after CHIVA. Operation consisted in flush ligation and division from the GSV of the tributary containing the re-entry perforating vein (no additional high ligation is included). If reflux returned, SFJ interruption was performed in a second surgical procedure. RESULTS: the GSV diameter showed an average reduction from 6.6 to 3.9 mm 36 months after surgery. Reflux in the GSV system was demonstrated in all but five (8%) patients. Of the 53 patients with recurrent reflux, 46 underwent SFJ interruption. CONCLUSIONS: elimination of reflux in the GSV after the interruption of insufficient collaterals is only temporary.     

Fate and clinical significance of saphenofemoral junction tributaries following endovenous laser ablation of great saphenous vein

BACKGROUND: Unlike surgery, endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) abolishes great saphenous vein (GSV) reflux but does not specifically interrupt the GSV tributaries at the groin. The fate and clinical significance of these tributaries were assessed in a prospective study. METHODS: Eight-one legs (70 patients) underwent colour flow duplex ultrasonography 12 months after GSV ablation for primary varicose veins. Saphenofemoral junction (SFJ) reflux, tributary patency, and recurrent or residual varicosities were recorded, and Aberdeen Varicose Vein Severity Scores (AVVSS) were compared with pretreatment values. RESULTS: The GSV had recanalized without evidence of reflux in two patients. None of the 81 legs showed SFJ reflux although one or more patent tributaries were visible in 48 (59 per cent); all were competent. In 32 legs (40 per cent) there was flush GSV occlusion with the SFJ and no tributaries were detectable. One leg showed evidence of neovascularization in the groin. AVVSS values were similar in groups with or without visible tributaries, both before and after EVLA: median (interquartile range) 13.9 (7.6-19.2) before EVLA and 2.9 (0.6-4.8) at follow-up in patients with visible tributaries, and 14.9 (9.2-20.2) and 3.1 (0.8-5.1) respectively in those without. Recurrent varicosities were present in one leg only, due to an incompetent mid-thigh perforating vein. CONCLUSION: Persistent non-refluxing GSV tributaries at the SFJ did not appear to have an adverse impact on clinical outcome 1 year after successful EVLA of the GSV.     

Patterns of saphenous reflux in women with primary varicose veins

OBJECTIVE: Varicose veins have been linked to great saphenous vein (GSV) reflux and in particular, with reflux at the saphenofemoral junction (SFJ). Early stages of disease, however, may be associated with limited, localized reflux in segments of the GSV and/or small saphenous vein (SSV). Ultrasound mapping of saphenous veins was performed to determine patterns of GSV and SSV reflux in women with simple, primary varicose veins. METHODS: Ultrasound mapping was performed prospectively in 590 extremities of 326 women with varicose veins (CEAP C 2 class) but without edema, skin changes, or ulcers (C 3 to C 6 ). Average age was 42 +/- 13 (SD) years (range, 8 to 87). Patterns of GSV and SSV reflux, obtained in the upright position, were classified as I: perijunctional, originating from the SFJ or saphenopopliteal junction (SPJ) tributaries into the GSV or SSV; II: proximal, from the SFJ or SPJ to a tributary or perforating vein above the level of the malleoli; III: distal, from a tributary or perforating vein to the paramalleolar GSV or SSV; IV: segmental, from a tributary or perforating vein to another tributary or perforating vein above the malleoli; V; multisegmental, if two or more distinct refluxing segments were detected; and VI: diffused, involving the entire GSV or SSV from the SFJ or SPJ to the malleoli. RESULTS: Reflux was detected in 472 extremities (80%): 100 (17%) had reflux in both the GSV and SSV, 353 (60%) had GSV reflux only, and 19 (3%) had SSV reflux only, for a total prevalence of 77% at the GSV and 20% at the SSV. The most common pattern of GSV reflux was segmental (types IV and V) in 342 (58%) of 590; either one segment in 213 (36%) or more than one segment with competent SFJ in 99 (17%), or incompetent SFJ in 30 (5%), followed by distal GSV reflux (type III) in 65 (11%), proximal GSV reflux (type II) in 32 (5%), diffused throughout the entire GSV (type VI) in 10 (2%), and perijunctional (type I) in 4 (<1%). GSV refluxing segments were noted in the SFJ in 72 (12%) and in the thigh in 220 (37%), and leg (or both) in 345 (58%). CONCLUSIONS: The high prevalence of reflux justifies ultrasound mapping of the saphenous veins in women with primary varicose veins. Correction of SFJ reflux, however, may be needed in 相似文献   

Closure of the cribriform fascia: an efficient anatomical barrier against postoperative neovascularisation at the saphenofemoral junction? A prospective study.

BACKGROUND: Neovascularisation at the sapheno-femoral junction (SFJ) ligation site in the groin may occur within one year after great saphenous vein (GSV) surgery. Several anatomical and prosthetic barrier techniques have been proposed to prevent this evolution. OBJECTIVE: A prospective study examined whether closing the cribriform fascia could reduce the incidence of postoperative neovascularisation in the groin. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Patients with primary varicose veins and incompetence at the level of the SFJ were included. After SFJ ligation in 235 limbs of 193 patients an anatomical barrier was constructed by closing the cribriform fascia. Postoperative duplex scanning was performed after 2 and 12 months. Results were compared with historical control groups in which either a silicone patch saphenoplasty or no barrier technique had been performed. RESULTS: After one year, 10 limbs had developed recurrent thigh varicose veins and duplex scan showed neovascularisation at the SFJ ligation site in 15 of 223 re-examined limbs (6.7%). This was comparable to the group of 191 limbs with silicone patch saphenoplasty (5.2%) (P=0.526) and superior to the group of 189 limbs without barrier (14.8%) (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: Interposition of an anatomical barrier by closing the cribriform fascia after SFJ ligation reduced ultrasound detected neovascularisation at the SFJ after one year. In primary varicose vein operations application of an anatomical barrier technique (without prosthetic patch) is an alternative option to prevent postoperative neovascularisation.     

Ultrasound findings after radiofrequency ablation of the great saphenous vein: descriptive analysis

OBJECTIVE: As an emerging endovascular alternative to ligation and stripping of the incompetent greater saphenous vein (GSV), radiofrequency ablation was monitored with ultrasound scanning to evaluate anatomic results. Neovascularization and inflammation are potential consequences that lead to the appearance of small vessels. The natural history of the below-knee untreated GSV segment may be important in our understanding of ongoing chronic venous disease. An ultrasound follow-up study was conducted to determine the prevalence of small vessel networks, defined as veins and arteries less than 2 mm in diameter, adjacent to the saphenofemoral junction (SFJ); prevalence of small vessel networks adjacent to the treated GSV in the thigh; and fate of the below-knee untreated GSV distal to the ablated segment. METHODS: One hundred six extremities with radiofrequency ablation of the GSV for treatment of superficial venous insufficiency were followed up with high-resolution ultrasound imaging 4 to 25 months (median, 9 months) after the procedure. Ninety-three limbs had concomitant ligation and division of the SFJ and its tributaries, and 13 limbs underwent radiofrequency ablation without SFJ ligation. Ultrasound was used to evaluate patients for small vessel networks, and concomitant findings of small vessel networks and recanalization at the SFJ and adjacent to the treated GSV. The status of the below-knee segment of untreated GSV was evaluated for patency and reflux. Data analysis compared the findings in the ligation group with those in the no-ligation group, with the chi 2 test and Fisher exact test. RESULTS: We found small vessel networks in 65% (n = 69) of extremities: 15% (n = 16) at the SFJ only, 26% (n = 28) in the thigh only, and 24% (n = 25) at both the SFJ and thigh, resulting in a small vessel network prevalence of 39% (n = 41) at the SJF and 50% (n = 53) in the thigh. The prevalence of small vessel networks at the SFJ was significantly less after radiofrequency ablation with SFJ ligation (34%, 32 of 93) than after radiofrequency ablation without ligation (69%, 9 of 13; P = .035). Small vessel networks and GSV recanalization at the SFJ was more common in patients undergoing radiofrequency ablation without ligation (46%, 6 of 13) than after radiofrequency ablation with ligation (14%, 13 of 93; P = .014). The prevalence of small vessel networks in the thigh was not affected by SFJ ligation. The below-knee GSV was patent in 79% (84 of 106), and 58% (61 of 106) demonstrated reflux, a decrease from the pre-radiofrequency ablation rate of 71% (75 of 106), possibly because thrombosis extended distally beyond the ablated segment in 16% (17 of 106) of the legs. CONCLUSIONS: Small vessel networks were detected adjacent to or in connection with most of the radiofrequency ablation-treated GSVs. SFJ ligation was associated with fewer small vessel networks and proximal GSV recanalization. Most below-knee untreated GSV segments remained patent, and most exhibited reflux.     

Endovascular obliteration of saphenous reflux: a multicenter study

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess the differences in clinical outcomes in patients treated with endovenous saphenous vein obliteration with technical outcome of either complete occlusion (CO), near complete occlusion (NCO), defined as < or =5-cm segment of flow in treated vein, or recanalization, defined as >5-cm segment of flow in treated vein. STUDY DESIGN: The study was designed as a prospective registry with follow-up at intervals through 24 months. The subjects were 286 patients from 30 clinical sites with saphenous vein reflux as measured with duplex scanning. A total of 319 limb treatments were performed. Intervention included endovenous catheter obliteration of insufficient saphenous veins with temperature controlled radiofrequency heat, without high ligation of the saphenofemoral junction. The main outcome measures were status of occlusion of treated vein segments, presence of varicose veins and reflux, clinical symptoms scores, physician evaluation of procedure success, and patient satisfaction. RESULTS: At 12 months, 83.6% of treated limbs were classified as CO, 5.6% were categorized as NCO, and 10.8% were recanalized. At 24 months, 85.2% of treated veins were CO, 3.5% were NCO, and 11.3% were recanalized. Varicose veins were present in 95% of limbs before treatment. The presence of varicose veins in limbs with CO was 10.5%, 7.3%, 5.7%, and 8.3% at 1 week, 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months, respectively. The presence of varicose veins in NCO limbs was similar at each interval. Overall, 91.4% of 232 limbs followed to 12 months and 90.1% of 142 limbs at 24 months were free of saphenous vein reflux, regardless of technical outcome. Paresthesia was reported in 3.9% of limbs at 1 year and in 5.6% at 2 years. The pretreatment mean symptom severity score was 2.0. Mean posttreatment symptom scores decreased to 0.07, 0.0, and 0.50 for CO, NCO, and recanalized limbs, respectively, at 6 months. At 12 months, the mean scores were 0.06, 0.0, and 0.32 for CO, NCO, and recanalized limbs, respectively; at 24 months, the scores were at 0.10, 0.40, and 0.63. Patient satisfaction was achieved in 195 of 212 patients (92%) at 1 year and in 121 of 128 (94.5%) at 2 years. CONCLUSION: Endovenous vein obliteration without high ligation dramatically reduces the presence of varicosities and reflux and, when performed with the prescribed pull-back methodology, is comparable with vein stripping at 1 and 2 years. Patient satisfaction with the procedure is high at 2 years, regardless of technical outcome. At 2 years, the closure procedure is a viable alternative to stripping.     

Anatomical Patterns of the Above Knee Great Saphenous Vein and its Tributaries: Implications for Endovenous Treatment Strategy

Objective: The aim of the present study was to analyse the anatomical patterns of the above knee great saphenous vein (GSV) and its tributaries in limbs with varicose veins in view of potential suitability for endovenous treatment. Methods: Limbs of a consecutive series of new patients with varicose veins presenting at the phlebologic clinic during a 4 month period were studied. In 73 limbs of 56 patients with varicose veins and both saphenofemoral junction and GSV reflux, anatomical patterns of the above knee GSV were defined as :

-‘complete’ GSV: main trunk visualised within the saphenous compartment from the groin to the knee

-‘incomplete’ GSV: main trunk partially visualised from the groin to mid thigh with a non-refluxing mostly hypoplastic distal GSV and a superficial tributary vein (STV) parallel to the GSV.

Results: 51 limbs (70 %) had a ‘complete’ GSV. In 4 of these 51 limbs reflux passed from the main GSV trunk to a STV at mid thigh level leaving a non-refluxing part of the GSV from mid thigh to the knee.

Conclusion: In only 64% of limbs with varicose veins the entire above knee GSV was involved in the disease. This may have implications for endovenous treatment strategy.     

大隐静脉属支结扎与否对微波腔内闭合术疗效的影响

目的:观察大隐静脉5大属支结扎与否对微波腔内闭合术治疗大隐静脉曲张疾病效果的影响.方法:对600例大隐静脉曲张疾病患者行微波腔内闭合术,其中,400例(635条患肢)采取大隐静脉高位结扎加主干微波腔内闭合术,经皮穿刺微波闭合下肢浅表曲张静脉与病变交通静脉(观察组);200例(313条患肢)除以上处理外,结扎大隐静脉5个属支(对照组).结果:两组患者术后均获满意疗效.两组间浅静脉曲张、患肢肿胀、色素沉着、溃疡的改善情况及术后并发症发生率、5年复发率等均无明显差异(均P＞0.05).超声影像学显示,观察组术后股总静脉流速较术前明显减慢,内径明显减小(均P＜0.05);而对照组术后股总静脉流速较术前明显减慢(P＜0.05),但内径减小未达统计学意义(P＞0.05).结论:大隐静脉5大属支结扎与否不影响微波腔内闭合术治疗大隐静脉曲张疾病的效果.     

Closure of the Greater Saphenous Vein with Endoluminal Radiofrequency Thermal Heating of the Vein Wall in Combination with Ambulatory Phlebectomy: 50 Patients with More Than 6-Month Follow-up

BACKGROUND: Incompetence of the saphenofemoral junction (SFJ) with reflux into the greater saphenous vein (GSV) is one cause of chronic venous hypertension that may lead to the development of varicose and telangiectatic leg veins. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate with long-term follow-up a novel method for closing the incompetent GSV at its junction with the femoral vein through an endoluminal approach. METHODS: Fifty patient legs with reflux at the SFJ into the GSV were treated with radiofrequency (RF) heating of the vein wall through an endoluminal catheter. Patients were evaluated at 6, 9, 12, and 18-24 months to determine treatment efficacy as well as adverse sequelae. RESULTS: Nine patients could not return for evaluation after 3 months. The remaining 41 patient legs were evaluated. Sixty-eight percent of treated legs achieved complete closure of the SFJ and GSV. Twenty-two percent of legs had an open GSV without reflux. Three patients (four legs) (10%) had an open and refluxing GSV. Three of 41 legs had recurrent varicose veins. Only 1 of 41 legs had recurrent symptoms. Complete treatment took an average of 20 minutes. Adverse sequelae were minimal, with 28 legs showing purpura less than 2 weeks, 5 legs with erythema less than 1 week, and 8 legs with an indurated fibrous cord lasting for up to 6 months posttreatment. CONCLUSION: Endoluminal RF thermal heating of an incompetent GSV has been shown to be easily accomplished and efficacious throughout the 24-month-follow-up period.     

Residual varicose veins below the knee after varicose vein surgery are not related to incompetent perforating veins

OBJECTIVE: The objectives of this study were to investigate the occurrence of residual varicose veins (visible and ultrasonic) at the below-knee level after short-stripping the great saphenous vein (GSV) and to investigate the possible role of preoperative incompetent perforating veins (IPVs) on the persistence of these varicose veins. METHODS: In this prospective study in 59 consecutive patients (74 limbs) with untreated primary varicose veins, a preoperative clinical examination and preoperative color flow duplex imaging were performed. Re-evaluation (clinical examination and color flow duplex imaging) was performed 6 months after surgery. Dissection of the saphenofemoral junction and short-stripping of the GSV from the groin to just below the knee level was performed without additional stab avulsions on the lower leg. The association between postoperative reflux in the three GSV branches below the knee level and preoperative IPV and the association between postoperative visible varicose veins in the GSV below knee level and preoperative IPV were determined with odds ratios with the help of a univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Preoperative varicosities in the GSV below the knee were visible in 62 limbs (70%) and were visible after surgery in 12 limbs (16%). The number of limbs with reflux in the 3 below-knee GSV branches was as follows: anterior branch, 34 (49%) before surgery and 31 (44%) after surgery; main stem, 59 (79%) before surgery and 62 (91%) after surgery; and posterior branch, 49 (67%) before surgery and 46 (63%) after surgery. No statistically significant association between postoperative reflux in the three GSV branches and preoperative IPV nor between postoperative visible varicose veins and preoperative IPV was found. CONCLUSIONS: This study shows that reflux in the GSV below knee level after the short-stripping procedure persists in all below-knee GSV branches. Approximately 20% of patients with visible varicose veins in the GSV area below the knee level will have visible varicose veins in this area 6 months after the short-strip procedure. These clinical and ultrasonic residual varicose veins are not significantly related to the presence of preoperative IPV.     

Controlled Radiofrequency Endovenous Occlusion Using a Unique Radiofrequency Catheter Under Duplex Guidance to Eliminate Saphenous Varicose Vein Reflux: A 2-Year Follow-Up

BACKGROUND: Saphenous vein reflux is often the underlying anatomic cause of varicose veins. It is necessary to eliminate this reflux originating at the saphenofemoral junction (SFJ) to treat the resultant varicose veins. OBJECTIVE: To report 2-year follow-up results after closing the incompetent greater saphenous vein starting from its junction (SFJ) with the femoral vein using radiofrequency (RF) endoluminal ablation. METHODS: One hundred and forty incompetent greater saphenous veins from 120 patients with an incompetent SFJ and large painful varicosities were treated. Patients were evaluated clinically and with duplex ultrasound at 1 week, 6 weeks, 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months to determine treatment efficacy as well as adverse sequelae. RESULTS: Vein occlusion, defined as the absence of any duplex ultrasound-determined flow, was successfully achieved in 137 of 140 (98%) scanned veins at 1-week follow-up. At the 12-month follow-up, none of the treated patients developed recanalization that was not seen at 6 weeks, with a successful outcome in 90%. At the 24 month follow-up, 19 of 21 patients had complete disappearance of the treated saphenous vein, for a success rate of 90%. Side effects were minimal, and no skin burns or thromboses were observed. CONCLUSION: RF endovenous occlusion allows patients to obtain treatment with the positive attributes of surgery, that is, a single treatment and low rate of recurrent reflux, but without the morbidity, need for general anesthesia, or extensive convalescence associated with vein stripping and ligation surgery. Patient satisfaction was routinely achieved, with 98% of patients indicating a willingness to recommend the RF endovascular procedure to a friend or family member.     

腔内激光与腔内激光联合泡沫硬化剂治疗下肢静脉曲张的比较研究

目的探讨腔内激光联合泡沫硬化剂治疗下肢静脉曲张的疗效和安全性。方法 2010年7月～2011年10月将120例下肢静脉曲张按就诊顺序编号,每10例为一分配单元,1～10号为单纯激光组,11～20号为联合治疗组,以此类推,每组60例。单纯激光组:大隐静脉高位结扎后,用980 nm波长半导体激光腔内治疗大隐静脉主干、大隐静脉属支及曲张的静脉团;联合治疗组:大隐静脉高位结扎后,用980 nm波长半导体激光腔内激光治疗大隐静脉主干,泡沫硬化剂5 ml(1 ml聚桂醇注射液及4 ml空气经三通器混合制成5 ml泡沫硬化剂,现用现配)静脉注射治疗属支静脉及静脉团。结果所有患者随访6～12个月,平均9个月。单纯激光组痊愈56例,显效4例,总有效率100%;联合治疗组痊愈58例,显效2例,总有效率100%,2组疗效比较差异无显著性(Z=-0.834,P=0.404)。2组术后复发率无统计学差异[6.7%(4/60)vs.3.3%(2/60),χ2=0.175,P=0.675]。腔内激光组并发症发生率为35.0%(21/60),联合治疗组并发症发生率为3.3%(2/60),2组比较差异有显著性(χ2=19.417,P=0.000)。结论与单纯腔内激光治疗比较,腔内激光联合泡沫硬化剂治疗下肢静脉曲张并发症少,疗效无差别。     

大隐静脉传统剥脱术与泡沫硬化剂注射术的随机对照研究

目的 比较大隐静脉传统剥脱术与泡沫硬化剂注射联合高位结扎术治疗大隐静脉曲张的临床效果.方法 本研究为单中心前瞻性随机对照研究.2009年3月至11月,连续录入60例大隐静脉曲张患者,其中男性26例,女性34例,年龄37～66岁,中位年龄49岁.随机分为两组,每组30例,一组行大隐静脉剥脱术(手术组),另一组行高位结扎联合泡沫硬化剂注射治疗(硬化剂组).主要临床观察指标为患者术后恢复时间、术后疼痛程度和术后复发率,次要观察指标为围手术期并发症发生率.结果 1例患者术前退出研究,余59例手术按计划完成.硬化剂组手术时间短于手术组(43 min比65 min,P＜0.01),术后镇痛药应用少于手术组,术后平均恢复时间也少于手术组(3 d比6 d,P＜0.01).术后3个月随访,两组CEAP分级为C1,均较术前的C4明显改善(P＜0.01).术后6个月随访,硬化剂组大隐静脉闭塞率80.0%,手术组为89.5%,差异无统计学意义(P＞0.05).结论 与大隐静脉剥脱术相比,大隐静脉高位结扎联合泡沫硬化剂注射术可以缩短手术时间,减少术后疼痛和术后恢复时间.     

Endovenous laser treatment combined with a surgical strategy for treatment of venous insufficiency in lower extremity: a report of 208 cases

BACKGROUND: We assessed the safety and efficacy of endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) of the saphenous vein combined with a surgical strategy for treatment of deep venous insufficiency in the lower extremity. METHODS: Two hundred thirty venous insufficiencies of the lower limbs in 208 consecutive patients (93 men and 115 women; mean age, 54.15 years) were treated with EVLT combined with surgical strategies. All patients were symptomatic. There were 84 limbs (36.5%) in C(2), 25 (10.9%) in C(3), 109 (47.7%) in C(4), 1 (0.4%) in C(5), and 9 (3.9%) in C(6) (CEAP), and Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome was present in 2 limbs. A total of 119 (51.7%) had perforator vein incompetence. Four therapeutic methods were included in this series according to symptoms, CEAP classification, and venous reflux. Simple EVLT was performed for 15 patients with only great saphenous vein (GSV) incompetence or Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome in 19 lower limbs. EVLT combined with high ligation of the GSV and open ligation of perforators was performed for 5 patients with GSV and perforator incompetence in 5 lower limbs. EVLT was combined with high ligation of the GSV for 76 patients with GSV incompetence in 94 lower limbs. EVLT was combined with external banding of the first femoral venous valve and high ligation of the GSV for 112 patients with primary deep venous insufficiency in 112 lower limbs. All patients were followed up on an outpatient basis for physical examinations and postoperative complaints, and duplex ultrasonography was performed 2 weeks, 6 months, and 1 year after operation. RESULTS: All patients tolerated the procedure well and returned to normal daily activities immediately, achieving a 100% immediate clinical success rate. Spot skin burn injuries occurred in 2 patients (1.0%). Paresthesia in the gaiter area was noted in 15 patients (7.2%). No postprocedural symptomatic deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism occurred. Three patients had local recurrent varicose veins in the calf (1.4%) during a 2- to 27-month follow-up (mean, 6.12 months). Postoperative clinical classes were significantly improved between 2 weeks and 24 months (P = .0001 at 2 weeks and 3 to 18 months; P = .0055 at 24 months compared with before operation), especially in preoperative C(2) to C(3) stage patients, who achieved complete amelioration. CONCLUSIONS: EVLT is a novel minimally invasive treatment with advantages of safety, effectiveness, and simplicity, and it leaves no scars. Its indications can be expanded by combining EVLT with surgical strategies.     

Endovenous Laser: A New Minimally Invasive Method of Treatment for Varicose Veins—Preliminary Observations Using an 810 nm Diode Laser

BACKGROUND: Long-term success in the treatment of truncal and significant branch leg varicosities, when the saphenofemoral junction (SFJ) and the greater saphenous vein (GSV) are involved, depends on the elimination of the highest point of reflux and the incompetent venous segment, and is best achieved by surgical ligation and stripping. Minimally invasive alternatives in the treatment of varicose veins with SFJ and GSV incompetence have been tried over the years to increase patient comfort, reduce cost and risk, and allow implementation by a wide variety of practitioners resulting in varying degrees of success depending on the fulfillment of the above two premises and the effectiveness of the method used. OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate a novel way to use laser energy through an endoluminal laser fiber for the minimally invasive treatment of truncal varicosities that eliminates the highest point of reflux and the incompetent segment. METHODS: Patients were treated with 810 nm diode laser energy administered endovenously through a bare-tipped laser fiber (400-750 microm). Vein access for endoluminal placement of the fiber through a catheter was achieved by means of percutaneous or stab wound incision under ultrasound guidance and local anesthesia. Exact placement of the fiber was determined by direct observation of the aiming beam through the skin and by ultrasound confirmation. RESULTS: Preliminary short-term postprocedure results (up to 1 year, 2 months after treatment) in the endovenous laser treatment of 40 greater saphenous veins in 33 patients indicate a 100% rate of closure with no significant complications. In addition, a 2-year experience of 80 cases of isolated branch varicosities (Giacomini, anterolateral branch, etc.) also shows a 100% rate of closure. CONCLUSION: Early results of our endoluminal laser methodology indicate a very effective and safe way to eliminate SFJ incompetence and close the GSV. With proper patient selection, the ease of methodology and the reduced risk and cost associated with endovenous laser treatment may make it a successful minimally invasive alternative for a wide group of patients that previously would have required ligation and stripping.     

Deep venous thrombosis after radiofrequency ablation of greater saphenous vein: a word of caution

PURPOSE: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the greater saphenous vein (GSV; "closure") is a relatively new option for treatment of venous reflux. However, our initial enthusiasm for this minimally invasive technique has been tempered by our preliminary experience with its potentially lethal complication, deep venous thrombosis (DVT). METHODS: Seventy-three lower extremities were treated in 66 patients with GSV reflux, between April 2003 and February 2004. There were 48 (73%) female patients and 18 (27%) male patients, with ages ranging from 26 to 88 years (mean, 62 +/- 14 years). RFA was combined with stab avulsion of varicosities in 55 (75%) patients and subfascial ligation of perforator veins in 6 (8%) patients. An ATL HDI 5000 scanner with linear 7-4 MHz probe and the SonoCT feature was used for GSV mapping and procedure guidance in all procedures. GSV diameter determined the size of the RFA catheter used. Veins less than 8 mm in diameter were treated with a 6F catheter (n = 54); an 8F catheter was used for veins greater than 8 mm in diameter (n = 19). The GSV was cannulated at the knee level. The tip of the catheter was positioned within 1 cm of the origin of the inferior epigastric vein (first GSV tributary). All procedures were carried out according to manufacturer guidelines. RESULTS: All patients underwent venous duplex ultrasound scanning 2 to 30 days (mean, 10 +/- 6 days) after the procedure. The duplex scans documented occlusion of the GSV in 70 limbs (96%). In addition, DVT was found in 12 limbs (16%). Eleven patients (92%) had an extension of the occlusive clot filling the treated proximal GSV segment, with a floating tail beyond the patent inferior epigastric vein into the common femoral vein. Another patient developed acute occlusive clots in the calf muscle (gastrocnemius) veins. Eight patients were readmitted and received anticoagulation therapy. Four patients were treated with enoxaparin on an ambulatory basis. None of these patients had pulmonary embolism. Initially 3 patients with floating common femoral vein clots underwent inferior vena cava filter placement. Of the 19 limbs treated with the 8F RFA catheter, GSV clot extension developed in 5 (26%), compared with 7 of 54 (13%) limbs treated with the 6F RFA catheter (P =.3). No difference was found between the occurrence of DVT in patients who underwent the combined procedure (RFA and varicose vein excision) compared with patients who underwent GSV RFA alone (P =.7). No statistically significant differences were found in age or gender of patients with or without postoperative DVT (P = NS). CONCLUSION: Patients who underwent combined GSV RFA and varicose vein excision did not demonstrate a higher occurrence of postoperative DVT compared with patients who underwent RFA alone. Early postoperative duplex scans are essential, and should be mandatory in all patients undergoing RFA of the GSV.     

Subfascial endoscopic perforator vein surgery combined with saphenous vein ablation: results and critical analysis

OBJECTIVE: This study was undertaken to determine the results of subfascial endoscopic perforator vein surgery (SEPS) combined with ablation of superficial venous reflux. METHODS: Clinical data were retrospectively analyzed for 74 consecutive limbs (65 patients) in which this combination treatment was performed at a university medical center. Preoperatively, 58 lower extremities had an open venous ulcer (CEAP clinical class 6 [C(6)]) and 16 had healed ulceration (C(5)). Preoperative and postoperative ulcer care remained constant. Main outcomes measured included perioperative complications, ulcer healing, and ulcer recurrence. Clinical severity and disability scores were tabulated before and after surgery. Mean patient follow-up was 44 months. RESULTS: Greater saphenous vein (GSV) stripping and varicose vein excision accompanied SEPS in 57 limbs (77%), and SEPS was performed alone or with varicose vein excision in 17 limbs that had previously undergone GSV stripping. Postoperative complications occurred in 12 limbs (16%), all with C(6) disease (P =.04). Ulcer healing occurred in 91% (53 of 58) of limbs with C(6) disease at a mean of 2.9 months (range, 13 days-17 months). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that ulcer healing was negatively affected by previous limb trauma (P =.011). Ulceration recurred in 4 limbs (6%) at 7, 20, 21, and 30 months, respectively. This was associated with a history of limb trauma (P =.027) and preoperative ultrasound evidence of GSV reflux combined with deep venous obstruction (P(R,O); P =.043). Clinical severity and disability scores improved significantly after surgery (both, P <.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Most venous ulcers treated with SEPS with ablation of superficial venous reflux heal rapidly and remain healed during medium-term follow-up. Ulcer healing is adversely affected by a history of severe limb trauma, and ulcer recurrence is similarly affected by a history of limb trauma in addition to superficial venous reflux combined with deep venous obstructive disease. Overall, there was marked improvement of postoperative clinical severity and disability scores compared with those obtained before surgery.     

Reflux elimination without any ablation or disconnection of the saphenous vein. A haemodynamic model for venous surgery.

OBJECTIVES: to investigate the possibility of the haemodynamic suppression of reflux in the greater saphenous vein (GSV) without any high ligation and/or stripping procedure. DESIGN: prospective study; single group of patients. MATERIALS: forty patients affected by primary chronic venous insufficiency of all clinical classes, with demonstrated duplex incompetence both of the sapheno-femoral junction (SFJ) and the GSV trunk, with the re-entry perforator located on a GSV tributary. The re-entry point was defined as the perforator, whose finger compression of the superficial vein above its opening eliminates reflux in the GSV. METHODS: air-plethysmographic parameters as well as duplex scanning were performed both preoperatively, and 1 and 6 months later, respectively. Operation consisted in flush ligation and division from the GSV of the tributary containing the re-entry perforating vein. RESULTS: duplex investigation demonstrated both a forward flow and reflux disappearance in the GSV in 100% and 85% of the cases after 1 and 6 months, respectively. All air-plethysmographic parameters, with the exception of Ejection Fraction, improved significantly: Venous Volume changed from 150+/-9 ml to 114+/-7 ml (p <0.0001), Venous Filling Index from 4.9+/-0.5 ml/s to 2.3+/-0.2 ml/s ( p <0.0001), and Residual Volume Fraction from 42+/-3 ml to 30+/-2 ml ( p <0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: this study demonstrates that reflux in the GSV system is supported by a gradient of pressure between the anatomical point of reflux and the point of re-entry in the deep veins. Disconnection of the flow to the re-entry perforator without high ligation of the sapheno-femoral junction suppresses GSV reflux.