Causes of re-recurrence after polytetrafluoroethylene patch saphenoplasty for recurrent varicose veins

Long-term outcomes of endovenous laser ablation and conventional surgery for great saphenous varicose veins

BACKGROUND

Clinical guidelines recommend endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) over surgery based on short-term evidence, yet there are few studies reporting mid- to long-term outcomes. The aim of this study was to report the 5-year outcomes from an RCT of surgery versus EVLA for treatment of symptomatic great saphenous varicose veins.

METHODS

Patients with symptomatic varicose veins due to great saphenous vein (GSV) incompetence were followed up 5 years after enrolment in a randomized trial of either surgery (saphenofemoral junction ligation, GSV strip to the knee and multiple avulsions of varicosities) or EVLA plus multiple avulsions. Outcomes included: clinical recurrence, defined as new varicose veins greater than 3 mm in diameter; Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS); quality of life measured by means of Short Form 36, EuroQol Five Dimensions (EQ-5D™) and Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire (AVVQ); patient satisfaction; and duplex ultrasound examination (DUS) findings.

RESULTS

Some 218 of the 276 patients enrolled in the trial (79·0 per cent) were available for follow-up. Clinical recurrence was more frequent following surgery than EVLA at 5 years (34·3 versus 20·9 per cent; P = 0·010). Both groups demonstrated sustained significant improvements at 5 years over baseline in VCSS (surgery: median (i.q.r.) 1 (0-2) from 4 (3-5), P < 0·001; EVLA: 0 (0-1) from 4 (3-5), P < 0·001), AVVQ (surgery: 4·59 (0·56-9·78) from 13·69 (9·81-18·11), P < 0·001; EVLA: 3·35 (0·17 to 6·55) from 12·73 (9·41-17·32), P < 0·001) and EQ-5D™ (surgery: 1·000 (0·796-1·000) from 0·859 (0·796-1·000), P = 0·002; EVLA: 1·000 (0·796-1·000) from 0·808 (0·796-1·000), P = 0·002). VCSS was better for EVLA than surgery at 5 years (P = 0·031). Technical success assessed by DUS remained high at 5 years (85·4 per cent for surgery and 93·2 per cent for EVLA; P = 0·074). DUS-detected anatomical patterns of recurrence differed between the groups.

CONCLUSION

EVLA was more effective than surgery in preventing clinical recurrence 5 years after treatment of great saphenous varicose veins. Patient-reported outcome measures were similar. Registration number: NCT00759434 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Hemodynamics-based treatment of varices: A therapeutic concept counteracting the intrinsic tendency of varicose veins to recur

Varicose vein disease is characterized by tenacious tendency to recur. Measures recommended to prevent recurrences (flush ligation at the saphenofemoral junction, removal of incompetent great saphenous vein in the thigh, and insertion of mechanical barriers in the fossa ovalis) did not succeed in preventing recurrence. Reflux recurrence is triggered by the hemodynamic phenomenon called hemodynamic paradox. Abolition of saphenous reflux removes the hemodynamic disturbance of any degree of severity but at the same time it releases the pathological process leading to recurrent reflux. This process is induced by drainage of venous blood from incompetent superficial thigh veins into deep lower leg veins during calf pump activity, which evokes the development of ambulatory pressure gradient between the femoral vein and incompetent segments of the saphenous system in the thigh. The pressure gradient sets off biophysical and biochemical events inducing recurrent reflux. The designed therapeutic strategy consists of reliable abolition of saphenous reflux and of hindering the pathological drainage of venous blood at the knee level in order to preclude development of the hemodynamic preconditions for reflux recurrence. In this way, the dividing line of the ambulatory pressure gradient would be kept below the knee, as is the case with healthy people.

Role of PTFE Patch Saphenoplasty in Reducing Neovascularization and Recurrence in Varicose Veins

Varicose veins have a high recurrence rate following surgery. Besides poor surgical technique, majority of these recurrences are attributable to neovascularization after both primary and repeat surgery. Authors have studied the effectiveness of a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) patch interposition between the ligated vein stump and the overlying soft tissue at saphenofemoral junction in decreasing recurrence of varicose veins after initial surgery. Study was conducted on 50 patients of varicose veins with saphenofemoral junction incompetence. Patients were randomly divided into two groups, group A and group B alternately. In group A, standard surgical procedure was done followed by PTFE patch application. In group B, same surgical procedure was applied as in group A, with the exception of PTFE patch application. Patients in both groups were given similar postoperative care. A full venous duplex ultrasound assessment was performed in all the patients postoperatively. Neovascularization was observed in five patients (20 %) of group B, while it was not seen in any of the patients in group A at 1-year follow-up. This difference in neovascularization across the two groups was found to be statistically significant with a p value of 0.0251. Hence, authors concluded that patch saphenoplasty helps in reducing recurrence in varicose veins by decreasing neovascularization at saphenofemoral junction.

A review of a new Dutch guideline for management of recurrent varicose veins

In 2013, the new Dutch guideline for "Venous Pathology" was published. The guideline was a revision and update from the guideline "Diagnostics and Treatment of Varicose Veins" from 2009 and the guideline "Venous Ulcer" from 2005. A guideline for "Deep Venous Pathology" and one for "Compression Therapy" was added to the overall guideline "Venous Pathology." The chapter about treatment of recurrent varicose veins after initial intervention was recently updated in 2015 and is reviewed here. The Dutch term "recidief varices" or the French "récidive de varices" should be used analogous to the English term "recurrent varicose veins." The DCOP Guideline Development Group Neovarices concluded that "recidief" in Dutch actually suggests recurrence after apparent successful treatment and ignores the natural progression of venous disease in its own right. So the group opted to use the term "neovarices." In the Dutch guideline, neovarices is meant to be an all embracing term for recurrent varicose veins caused by technical or tactical failure, evolvement from residual refluxing veins or natural progression of varicose vein disease at different locations of the treated leg after intervention. This report reviews the most important issues in the treatment of varicose vein recurrence, and discusses conclusions and recommendations of the Dutch Neovarices Guideline Committee.

The hemodynamic paradox as a phenomenon triggering recurrent reflux in varicose vein disease

A curious hemodynamic phenomenon emerging as a consequence of the treatment of varicose veins can offer a reasonable explanation why varicose vein and reflux recurrences occur tenaciously irrespective of the applied therapeutic procedure. Saphenous reflux is the most important hemodynamic factor in varicose vein disease: it is responsible for the hemodynamic disturbance, ambulatory venous hypertension, clinical symptoms, and chronic venous insufficiency. Abolition of saphenous reflux eliminates the hemodynamic disturbance and restores physiological hemodynamic and pressure conditions, but at the same time it unavoidably evokes a pressure difference between the femoral vein and the incompetent superficial veins in the thigh during calf pump activity. The pressure difference increases flow and enhances fluid shear stress on the endothelium in pre-existing minor communicating channels between the femoral vein and the saphenous system in the thigh, which triggers release of biochemical agents nitride oxide and vascular endothelial growth factor; the consequence is enlargement (vascular remodeling) of the communicating channels, and ultimately reflux recurrence. Hence, the abolition of saphenous reflux creates preconditions for the comeback of the previous pathological situation. This phenomenon-starting the same trouble while fixing the problem-has been called hemodynamic paradox; is explains why varicose vein and reflux recurrence can occur after any mode of therapy.

Calf pump activity influencing venous hemodynamics in the lower extremity

Calf muscle pump is the motive force enhancing return of venous blood from the lower extremity to the heart. It causes displacement of venous blood in both vertical and horizontal directions, generates ambulatory pressure gradient between thigh and lower leg veins, and bidirectional streaming within calf perforators. Ambulatory pressure gradient triggers venous reflux in incompetent veins, which induces ambulatory venous hypertension in the lower leg and foot. Bidirectional flow in calf perforators enables quick pressure equalization between deep and superficial veins of the lower leg; the outward (into the superficial veins) oriented component of the bidirectional flow taking place during calf muscle contraction is no pathological reflux but a physiological centripetal flow streaming via great saphenous vein into the femoral vein. Calf perforators are communicating channels between both systems making them conjoined vessels; they are not involved in the generation of pathological hemodynamic situations, nor do they cause ambulatory venous hypertension. The real cause why recurrences develop has not as yet been cleared. Pressure gradient arising during calf pump activity between the femoral vein and the saphenous remnant after abolition of saphenous reflux triggers biophysical and biochemical events, which might induce recurrence. Thus, abolition of saphenous reflux removes the hemodynamic disturbance, but at the same time it generates precondition for reflux recurrence and for the comeback of the previous pathological situation; this chain of events has been called hemodynamic paradox.

Endoluminal thermal ablation versus stripping of the saphenous vein: Meta-analysis of recurrence of reflux

BACKGROUND

Catheter-based minimally invasive techniques developed to treat saphenous vein insufficiency include endovenous laser and radiofrequency ablation. Their long-term results are under evaluation. A meta-analysis of trials was performed, comparing endovenous versus surgical saphenous vein ablation with focus on long-term (greater than 365 days) outcomes of recurrence of varicosities, reflux and symptomatic disease.

METHODS

A systematic search of published studies reporting on the treatment of varicose veins was performed. The databases searched included Medline/PubMed, OVID, EMBASE, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, the Cochrane central register of controlled trials and the Cochrane database of systematic reviews. Search terms included saphenous vein ligation, stripping, radiofrequency ablation, laser ablation and endovenous ablation. Reports in all languages from 1966 to 2009 were considered. The 'related articles' function was used to broaden the search. All article titles, abstracts and subject headings were screened by one reviewer for potential relevance. Abstracts of articles selected by title were read online to reduce the number of articles for full-text examination. Finally, additional titles were sought in the bibliographies of the retrieved articles. Only studies reporting outcomes after more than 365 days were selected. Analyzed outcomes included recurrence of varicosities and reflux, as documented by duplex ultrasound, and recurrence of signs and symptoms. Data extraction was performed from life tables, text or graphs. Statistical analysis was performed using the commercially available software CMA Version 2 (Biostat Inc, USA). The random effects model was used to calculate the ORs and 95% CIs. Statistical heterogeneity was evaluated using the Q value and considered present if P<0.05.

RESULTS

Eight randomized controlled trials were included; these reported on 497 patients. Two hundred twenty-six patients underwent ligation and stripping and 271 underwent endoluminal thermal ablation. The mean (± SD) follow-up period was 584±182 days. There was no difference in the age and sex distribution between the groups. There was no difference in the long-term recurrence rate between the two techniques (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.48 to 1.9, P=0.9). Statistical heterogeneity was not significant (Q value P=0.5) and publication bias was limited.

CONCLUSIONS

The analysis indicates that catheter-based treatments and traditional venous stripping with high ligation have similar long-term results. Establishing preoperative criteria for each method may improve outcomes but presently neither technique appears to confer an advantage in terms of mid- to long-term freedom from recurrent symptoms.

Randomised Trial of Polytetrafluoroethylene Patch Insertion for Recurrent Great Saphenous Varicose Veins

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess the possible value of a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) patch in the treatment of recurrent varicose veins.

METHODS

Thirty-one patients (40 legs) with recurrent saphenofemoral junction incompetence were randomised to redo saphenofemoral ligation and great saphenous vein stripping with, or without the insertion of a PTFE patch over the ligated junction. Patients underwent assessment preoperatively, and at 6 weeks, 1 year and 2 years postoperatively with clinical examination, duplex imaging and completion of the Aberdeen Varicose Vein Symptom Severity Score (AVVSSS).

RESULTS

A total of 27 patients (32 legs) attended for assessment at 6 weeks, 25 patients (30 legs) at 1 year and 27 patients (32 legs) at 2 years. At 6 weeks, seven legs (22%) had an area of cutaneous numbness; all but one had resolved by 1 year. Four legs (13%) developed a groin infection, which required antibiotics, 2 had a groin haematoma and four had a seroma, all of which resolved spontaneously. The overall complication rate was 35% (11 legs), with no statistically significant difference between the groups. Four of 16 legs without a patch and five of 16 legs with a patch developed neovascularisation at the saphenofemoral junction on duplex imaging by two years postoperatively. Two cases of neovascularisation in the patch group and one in the no patch group directly resulted in clinical recurrence (p=1.0). There was an improvement in patients' AVVSSS two years postoperatively (p<0.03), that was similar in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, insertion of a PTFE patch did not affect the rate of perioperative complications and it did not appear to contain neovascularisation.

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.

[Recurrent varices at the groin and popliteal fossa after surgical treatment]

Patients who undergo surgery involving the groin and the popliteal fossa often develop recurrent varices which require careful management. Several surveys using various classification systems have estimated the prevalence of recurrent varices after groin and popliteal surgery. Patients may seek medical care for various reasons: unsightly recurrent varicose veins, vein-related symptoms, appearance of cutaneous or subcutaneous changes, concerns about the health risk related to their veins or limitation of activity. Recurrent varices may also be found at routine follow-up examinations. An analysis of recurrence at this location reveals three main mechanisms: incomplete resection of the saphenofemoral or saphenopopliteal junctions in patients with an initially incompetent terminal valve. The persisting reflux feeds the tributaries connected at the saphenous stump; the second mechanism is related to neovascularisation that reconnects the deep venous system with the superficial network; the neo-veins are valveless. This phenomenon appears to be more frequent when the resection of the saphenous vein ending has been complete; the third mechanism is due to a tactical error; the refluxive pelvic veins that had not been diagnosed feed the varices. Duplex scanning identifies the different possible mechanisms and provides anatomical and hemodynamic data. Interventional treatment methods after varices recurrence are redosurgery, sclerotherapy and pelvic vein embolization when they are at issue. All these methods are described in details. Results provided by these treatments are analysed. Unfortunately no randomized control study enables grade A or B recommendations. Personally we suggest that ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy should be the first-line treatment except when duplex scanning reveals an intact incompetent saphenous stump at the saphenofemoral junction or/and saphenopopliteal junction with a massive reflux filling the varicose network.

Early and late complications of silicone patch saphenoplasty at the saphenofemoral junction

BACKGROUND

To reduce the incidence of postoperative recurrence after great saphenous vein (GSV) surgery, various barrier techniques have been introduced, aiming at containment of postoperative neovascularization at the saphenofemoral junction in the groin. Interposition of a prosthetic barrier (patch saphenoplasty) may be useful for this purpose; however, the incidence of postoperative complications after patch saphenoplasty is unknown. A prospective study examined the incidence of complications after patch saphenoplasty in primary and repeat varicose vein surgery.

METHODS

Silicone patch saphenoplasty was performed in a consecutive series of 462 limbs (primary GSV surgery in 380, repeat surgery in 82) in 387 patients. Early and late complications in the groin potentially related to patch saphenoplasty were registered at clinical follow-up after 1 week and at clinical and duplex ultrasound examination after 2 months, 1 year, and later in case of new symptoms.

RESULTS

Complications occurred in 44 limbs (9.5%), 28 (7.4%) after primary GSV surgery and 16 (19.5%) after repeat surgery (P < .01). After repeat surgery, half of the complications were lymphatic problems. Nine limbs (2.0%) developed a complication after >2 months. Wound infection was registered in 13 limbs (2.8%), lymphocele or lymphedema in the groin or thigh in 15 limbs (3.2%), symptomatic or asymptomatic proximal venous thromboembolism in 14 limbs (3.0%), and swelling of the thigh due to important stenosis of the common femoral vein visible on duplex scan in 4 limbs (0.9%). Two of the latter remained symptomatic even after venoplasty and stenting of the pinpoint stenosis of the common femoral vein.

CONCLUSION

Patch saphenoplasty can cause early and late postoperative complications in the groin, which are usually minor. In exceptional cases, major complications may cause important morbidity and may be difficult to handle.

Radiofrequency ablation (VNUS closure®) does not cause neo-vascularisation at the groin at one year: Results of a case controlled study

BACKGROUND

Despite adequate training in the surgical treatment of varicose veins, recurrence continues to be a problem and a burden to the vascular services. A major cause of recurrence is reported to be neo-vascularisation at the sapheno-femoral junction (SFJ). The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of neo-vascularisation at the SFJ following radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and open high saphenous tie and stripping (HSTS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty-one patients (55 legs) underwent standardised HSTS as part of a prospective study. These were compared with an age (range 28-83, mean 54.4) and sex (male:female 31:20) matched group of patients treated during the same time period, by the same consultant vascular surgeon, using RFA (VNUS closure). Each patient had a pre-operative duplex scan to confirm SFJ reflux, a one-week scan to confirm successful surgery and a one-year post-operative scan to assess neo-vascularisation. The same vascular technologist performed all scans. Neo-vascularisation was identified by the presence of refluxing tortuous vessels arising from the area of the SFJ.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Six of 55 (11%) legs in the open surgery group showed clear evidence of tortuous refluxing veins related to the SFJ. None of the 55 in the RFA group showed any neo-vascularisation at the SFJ (Fischer exact test P = 0.028). Further randomised controlled trials are necessary to confirm these observations.

A Prospective Randomised Controlled Trial of VNUS Closure versus Surgery for the Treatment of Recurrent Long Saphenous Varicose Veins

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the outcome of endoluminal thermal ablation (VNUS) and traditional redo groin surgery (RGS) and long saphenous vein (LSV) stripping in patients with bilateral recurrent long saphenous varicose veins.

METHODS

This was a randomised patient controlled double blind study. Sample size calculations required 16 patients. Their median age was 54 and 11 were women. The median CEAP class was 3. At operation one leg, chosen at random, was treated with VNUS and avulsions using intra-operative duplex control. The other leg was treated with traditional RGS, exposure of the femoral vein, stripping of the LSV and multiple avulsions. Post-operatively patients completed 10 cm visual analogue scales for pain and bruising. Digital Image analysis was used to objectively assess bruising. Statistical analysis was done using Wilcoxon signed rank test for paired data. Results are expressed as median values (inter-quartile ranges).

RESULTS

Time to perform VNUS was 25.5 (20.5-31.3) min compared with 40 (34.5-45.5) min it took for RGS (p=0.02). Pain score for VNUS was 1.7 (0.2-4), significantly lower than that for RGS 3.8 (0.6-6.3) (p=0.02). Bruise score for VNUS was 1.7 (0.4-4.4), and that for RGS was 5.2 (2.6-7) (p=0.03). All LSVs were sealed by VNUS at duplex follow up. Three legs in the RGS group and two in the VNUS group had a minor complication.

CONCLUSIONS

VNUS caused less pain and bruising and was performed more quickly than RGS. VNUS should be considered the treatment of choice for recurrent long saphenous varicose veins.

Patient characteristics and physician-determined variables affecting saphenofemoral reflux recurrence after ligation and stripping of the great saphenous vein

OBJECTIVE

To identify patient and physician-controlled treatment variables that might predict the persistence or redevelopment of saphenofemoral junction (SFJ) reflux.

METHODS

Thirteen European centers, with substantial lower extremity venous disease practices, examined their experience with SFJ ligation and GSV stripping for primary varicose veins in patients followed for > or =2 years, entering their data into a protocol-driven matrix that stipulated duplex Doppler imaging as an essential component of follow-up examinations and required a complete review of all peri-operative examinations, as well as all operative procedure and anesthesia notes. Matrix entries were centrally audited for consistency and credibility, and queried for correction or clarification before being accepted into the study database. Presence or absence of Doppler-detectable SFJ reflux was the dependent variable and principal outcome measure.

RESULTS

Among 1,638 limbs, 315 (19.2%) had SFJ reflux. After adjustment for follow-up length and inputting for missing values, multivariable analysis identified seven significant predictors. Ultrasonic groin mapping (odds ratio [OR], 0.28; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.20 to 0.40) and <3-cm groin incisions at or immediately below the groin crease (OR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.32 to 0.78) were both uniquely associated with diminished probability of follow-up SFJ reflux. Prior parity (OR, 2.69; 95% CI, 1.45 to 4.97), body mass index >29 kg/m(2) (OR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.12 to 2.43), <3-cm suprainguinal incisions (OR, 3.71; 95% CI, 1.70 to 5.88), stripping to the ankle (OR, 2.43; 95% CI, 1.71 to 3.46), and interim pregnancy during follow-up (OR, 4.74; 95% CI, 2.47 to 9.12), were each independent predictors of a greater probability of having SFJ reflux.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that ultrasound groin mapping, reticence for short suprainguinal or longer groin incisions and extended stripping, and counseling women about the effect of future pregnancy are prudent clinical choices, especially for obese or previously parous patients.

Radiofrequency endovenous obliteration versus stripping of the long saphenous vein in the management of primary varicose veins: 3-year outcome of a randomized study

We evaluated the 3-year outcome of a series of patients with primary varicose veins who were randomized to radiofrequency endovenous obliteration vs. stripping of the long saphenous vein (LSV). Twenty-eight patients were included in the study: 15 were randomized to the radiofrequency endovenous obliteration procedure and 13 to LSV stripping. At 3-year follow-up, five patients (33.3%) of the endovenous group had recurrent or residual varices and in three of them a reflux in the thigh veins was detected. None of the primarily occluded LSV segments was recanalized. In the stripping group, three patients (23.1%, p = 0.68) showed varicosities at clinical and duplex examinations. In one patient, a patent duplicate LSV trunk was detected. In the remaining two patients, no reflux in the thigh region was detected. According to the present results, radiofrequency endovenous obliteration of the LSV is associated with somewhat poorer short-term results compared with the stripping operation.

Neovascularization and recurrent varicose veins: more histologic and ultrasound evidence

BACKGROUND

The recurrence of varicose veins is a common and costly consequence of varicose vein surgery. Despite the long history and vast experience of varicose vein surgery, the exact cause of recurrence is still unknown. This study aims to investigate the cause of recurrence further by correlating findings from duplex ultrasound scans, resin casts, and histologic investigation at the recurrence of the saphenofemoral junction. In particular, frequency and neovascularization are evaluated.

METHOD

Forty-nine saphenofemoral junctions (SFJs) from 42 patients who presented for re-operation on their varicose veins were examined with duplex ultrasound and physiologic air plethysmography tests before surgery. All patients had reflux at the groin for which surgery was carried out. Specimens taken during surgery were sectioned and stained for conventional histology and immunohistology, and 5 specimens were infused with resin to form a cast of the venous vasculature.

RESULTS

All but 3 re-operation specimens (94%) showed multiple vessels at the stump site of the previous SFJ ligation. Neovascular channels of variable size, number, and tortuosity accounted for the ultrasound appearances and reflux to recurrent varicosities in the vast majority of specimens. These new vessels connected to the common femoral vein at the site of the previous SFJ. In 2 incompetent junctions without femoral vein involvement, while small vessels were seen surrounding the femoral stump scar, ultrasound and histology confirmed both neovascular and residual (enlarged collateral) connections from epigastric and pudendal vessels into the thigh.

CONCLUSION

Neovascularisation is the major cause for ultrasound-confirmed recurrence of reflux in the groin following varicose vein surgery.

Reduction of Neoreflux After Correctly Performed Ligation of the Saphenofemoral Junction. A Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND

Neoreflux at the sapheno-femoral junction (SFJ) is an important cause of recurrent great saphenous varicose veins. This study compares four surgical methods of ligating the SFJ with the aim to reduce the rate of neoreflux.

METHOD

In a prospective study, 379 patients (500 SFJ ligations) were randomised to one of four surgical procedures at the SFJ (125 groins each). In group A (control group) the SFJ was ligated in standard fashion with Vicryl (absorbable ligature); in group B, after Vicryl ligation continuous Prolene (non-absorbable) was sutured over the stump endothelium to prevent any contact with surrounding tissue; in group C. SFJ ligation was done with Ethibond (non-absorbable); in group D Ethibond ligation was followed by Prolene oversewing. The final study group included 114 patients (152 groins) who were all known to be free from recurrent groin reflux 3 months postoperatively and had colour duplex venous imaging 2 years after operation.

RESULTS

Duplex imaging identified neoreflux at the SFJ in 10 out of 114 groins after 2 years (7%). There were differences in the rates between the four groups: Group A 3/31 (10%), Group B 0/32, Group C 5/44 (11%) and Group D 2/45 (4%). Neoreflux was significantly reduced in the two groups with endothelial closure (B and D): 2/70 (3%) versus 8/75 (11%, p<0.025).

CONCLUSION

Recurrent reflux in the groin was reduced by over sewing the ligated SFJ in patients having varicose vein surgery. This adds weight to the theory of neovascularisation as a cause of recurrent veins and offers a means to reduce clinical recurrence rates.

Silicone patch saphenoplasty to prevent repeat recurrence after surgery to treat recurrent saphenofemoral incompetence: long-term follow-up study

OBJECTIVE

Barrier techniques have been proposed to improve the results of repeat surgery to treat recurrent saphenofemoral junction incompetence. We hypothesized that interposition of a silicone implant would contain postoperative neovascularization and thus reduce the incidence of clinical recurrence at 5-year follow-up.

METHODS

We compared the results of repeat interventions with use of silicone sheeting with a control group without artificial implants. The study was performed in hospitalized patients in a level 3 referral center (University Hospital). All patients underwent new flush ligation in the groin, with stab avulsion of recurrent varicosities. Two closure techniques were compared: in group A (33 limbs) the groin incision was closed in two layers; in group B (35 limbs) a piece of silicone sheeting was sutured on the saphenous stump. Clinical examination and duplex scanning were performed after 1 and 5 years postoperatively. Limbs operated on were checked in particular for the presence of recurrent thigh varicose veins. Color-coded duplex scanning was performed to assess for the presence of clinically relevant neovascularization, defined as the presence of a new vein with diameter at least 4 mm and with pathologic reflux in direct connection with incompetent varicose veins at thigh level.

RESULTS

Clinical examination after 1 year showed recurrent thigh varicosities in 24% of limbs in group A and 12% of limbs in group B (P =.369). After 5 years recurrent thigh varicosities were observed in 58% of limbs in group A and in 26% of limbs in group B (P =.009). Duplex scans after 1 year revealed neovascularization in 27% of limbs in group A and 6% of limbs in group B (P =.018). After 5 years neovascularization was present in 45% of limbs in group A and 9% of limbs in group B (P =.0007).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a silicone patch at repeat operation to treat recurrent varicose veins caused by new incompetence at the level of the saphenofemoral junction is associated with a lower incidence of recurrent thigh varicosities and neovascularization compared with a control group in which no additional barrier technique was used.

Recurrence after varicose vein surgery: a prospective long-term clinical study with duplex ultrasound scanning and air plethysmography

OBJECTIVE

We observed long-term venous ultrasound and plethysmographic changes after varicose vein surgery, to determine factors that influence recurrence.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

This observational sequential prospective study was carried out in an institutional referral center with day surgery. Subjects were 92 consecutive patients, ages 20 to 75 years, with symptomatic varicose veins in 127 limbs, who were able to complete regular assessment. Superficial varicose vein surgery included significant perforator vessels only, defined at preoperative duplex ultrasound scanning and air plethysmography. Similar follow-up assessments were performed at 3 weeks, 3 months, and 1, 3, and 5 years.

RESULTS

At 3 weeks venous reflux but not muscle pump function was consistently improved in all limbs. However, inadequate surgery at the major junctions was clearly identified as contributing to recurrence of disease in 7.2% of limbs. Recurrence of varicose veins occurred in 1 of 100 limbs (1%) at the saphenofemoral junction and in 8 of 33 (25%) limbs at the saphenopopliteal junction. However, after 3 years disease recurrence at these sites had increased to 23% and 52%, respectively. Incompetent perforator vessels increased progressively in number. Clinical recurrence was 47.1%, and consistent with this was gradual deterioration in air plethysmographic measures of reflux, with physiologic recurrence (venous filling index, >2 mL/s) in 66% at 5 years. Late recurrence was predicted in limbs with multiple sites of reflux preoperatively, venous filling index greater than 2 mL/s, and some other persistent abnormality at duplex scanning at 3 weeks. There was no recurrence in 40 limbs in which these factors were normal at at 3 weeks. However, 29 of 53 limbs with normal venous filling index after operative intervention had deteriorated at 3 years.

CONCLUSION

Incomplete superficial surgery, in particular at the saphenofemoral and saphenopopliteal junctions, is a less frequent cause of recurrent disease, and neovascular reconnection and persistent abnormal venous function are the major contributors to disease recurrence.

Can interposition of a silicone implant after sapheno-femoral ligation prevent recurrent varicose veins?

OBJECTIVES

To investigate whether a silicone implant at the sapheno-femoral ligation site could prevent recurrent varicosities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two non-randomised groups of patients were studied prospectively. In group A 173 patients and 212 limbs had sapheno-femoral ligation, while 172 patients and 210 limbs additionally had a piece (2x3cm) of silicone sheet sutured to the saphenous stump to cover the anterior half of the common femoral vein. The implant was fixed in apposition to the deep vein by carefully closing the cribriform fascia. Colour duplex scanning was performed after 2 and 12 months.

RESULTS

In the no implant group neovascularisation was observed in 35 (17%) after 12 months, but only in 13 (6%) limbs treated with a silicone implant (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Interposition of a partition of silicone implant seems to lower the incidence of neovascularisation one year after saphenofemoral ligation. This technique may constitute an efficient method to prevent recurrence at the correctly ligated saphenous stump.

Surgery for Recurrent Sapheno-Femoral Incompetence Using Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Patch Interposition in Front of the Femoral Vein: Long-Term Outcome in 119 Extremities

Objective:

To assess the long-term results of re-do surgery for recurrent varicose veins using polytetrafluoroethylene patch interposition to correct a recurrent varico-femoral junction (RVFJ).

Methods:

In 170 extremities (137 patients) with RVFJ greater than 3 mm in diameter, re-do surgery was done with patch interposition and without extensive resection of neovascularisation. Follow-up data based on physical and ultrasound examinations were obtained for 119 of these extremities (100 patients).

Setting:

Private-practice vascular surgery centre.

Results:

At follow-up (mean 4.9 years), 5 extremities (4.2%) had another RVFJ. In the 114 extremities with no RVFJ, 27.7% had no varicose veins or incompetent superficial veins, 45.3% had several small varicose veins without reflux, and 22.6% had diffused varicose veins and a new site of incompetence between the deep and superficial venous system.

Conclusions:

Re-do surgery using patch interposition lowers the long-term risk of another RVFJ. Wide resection of neovascularisation in the groin seems unnecessary.

Surgery for Recurrent Sapheno-Femoral Incompetence Using Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene Patch Interposition in Front of the Femoral Vein: Long-Term Outcome in 119 Extremities

Objective:

To assess the long-term results of re-do surgery for recurrent varicose veins using polytetrafluoroethylene patch interposition to correct a recurrent varico-femoral junction (RVFJ).

Methods:

In 170 extremities (137 patients) with RVFJ greater than 3 mm in diameter, re-do surgery was done with patch interposition and without extensive resection of neovascularisation. Follow-up data based on physical and ultrasound examinations were obtained for 119 of these extremities (100 patients).

Setting:

Private-practice vascular surgery centre.

Results:

At follow-up (mean 4.9 years), 5 extremities (4.2%) had another RVFJ. In the 114 extremities with no RVFJ, 27.7% had no varicose veins or incompetent superficial veins, 45.3% had several small varicose veins without reflux, and 22.6% had diffused varicose veins and a new site of incompetence between the deep and superficial venous system.

Conclusions:

Re-do surgery using patch interposition lowers the long-term risk of another RVFJ. Wide resection of neovascularisation in the groin seems unnecessary.