Results of Surgical Treatment of Varicose Veins

Abstract

The relative advantages of different procedures in treating varicose veins were assessed in a study of the late results in 416 patients. More than half were followed up for 7 to 14 years. Although the location and severity of the varicosities influenced the choice of procedure, it was generally true that the more complete the procedure, the better the result. Previous use of sclerosing injections generally increased the difficulty of subsequent surgery. Treatment was most satisfactory when based on exact diagnosis in the absence of complications from previous injections or surgery, and with correction of abnormal reflux by division and stripping of the great saphenous vein, plus additional attack upon the lesser saphenous and the communicating veins when indicated.