Superficial venous insufficiency: correlation of anatomic extent of reflux with clinical symptoms and signs

Patterns of reflux in patients with CEAP C2 disease compared to patients with C6 venous ulceration

OBJECTIVE

CEAP categorizes patients based on disease progression and severity. Whether disease severity is associated with specific patterns of reflux is currently unknown. We hypothesize that patterns of reflux in patients with C2 and C5/6 disease will differ.

DESIGN

Multi-center retrospective cohort analysis.

METHODS

From January 2015 to December 2020, we performed a retrospective review of reflux patterns in 21 335 patients and 31 727 limbs in symptomatic patients with C2 or C5/6 disease. Patterns of reflux in Great (GSV), Small (SSV), Deep and Perforators (Perf), were analyzed in patients with and without junctional reflux. The GSV and SSV were divided into six and three segments respectively. The number of perforators with reflux were categorized as 1-3 above and below-knee and deep system reflux was divided into three segments.

RESULTS

Of the 21 335 patients the average age and female/male distribution was the following: C2 (54.13 ± 13.82, 21 410/5047), C5/6 (64.75 ± 14.75, 1514/1755) (p ≤ .001). When SFJ reflux is present, 6-segment GSV reflux was most prevalent (C2, 14.85% vs C5/6, 27.50). Without junctional reflux, above knee reflux was more common in C2 disease, while below knee reflux was more common in C5/6 disease (p ≤ .01). Three segment SSV reflux was more prevalent in C2 patients (26.67% vs 16.27%, p ≤ .001). Below knee perforator reflux was more prevalent in C5/6 patients (79.56% vs 73.53%, p ≤ .01). Combined CFV/FV/POPV reflux was more prevalent in C5/6 patients (38.5% vs 20.5%, p ≤ .001).

CONCLUSION

The presence of junctional reflux is more closely associated with disease location (above- vs below-knee) than with disease classification. SFJ reflux is more likely to present with extensive above knee disease. Isolated below-knee reflux is more significantly associated with C5/6 disease, independent of junctional reflux. Conversely, isolated above-knee superficial reflux is significantly associated with C2 disease and junctional reflux.

Treatment of varicose great saphenous vein with endovenous laser alone or combined with eco-guided foam sclerotherapy: A randomized controlled trial

Objectives: This study compares Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) alone versus combined with ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy (UGFS) for Great Saphenous Vein (GSV) insufficiency. Methods: Sixty patients were randomly allocated to EVLA or EVLA-UGFS groups which focused on GSV occlusion rates, complications, additional treatments, and quality of life (QoL) changes. Results: Among 55 participants, the EVLA group had higher 12-month occlusion rates (92.3% vs. 75.8%, p = 0.11). Nervous injury (NI) was rarer in EVLA-UGFS (3.4% vs. 23.1%, p = 0.04). No significant difference in other complication rates (p > 0.05). QoL improved in both groups (p < 0.001). EVLA-UGFS required more subsequent procedures (24.1% vs. 7.7%, p = 0.03). Conclusions: EVLA and EVLA-UGFS effectively treat GSV insufficiency, enhancing QoL. The combined method reduces NI risk but may require more follow-up procedures.

The role of the giacomini vein in preoperative mapping of lower limb varicose veins

Background

The Giacomini vein (GV) can transfer reflux from perineal veins, tributary veins, and perforators of the thigh to the small saphenous vein (SSV). Vascular ultrasound with Doppler (VUD) is the preferred method for detecting reflux in specific veins such as the GV.

Objective

To identify GV depth and diameter, reflux in the GV, and presence of reflux in the SSV caused by the GV.

Methods

A cross-sectional, retrospective study was conducted in women undergoing lower limb venous mapping for varicose vein surgery. The following parameters were analyzed in GVs in which reflux was detected: segmental or diffuse reflux pattern; GV diameter and depth; and reflux in the SSV caused by the GV.

Results

340 of the 2368 women evaluated were included in the study because they had a GV, totaling 511 veins analyzed, 150 (29.4%) of which had reflux. The diameters of the 150 GVs with reflux ranged from 1.5 to 7.8 mm and their depth varied from 4 to 25 mm. Most GVs with reflux (91.3%) had a segmental reflux pattern. The majority (66%) of refluxing GVs drained reflux into the popliteal vein through the saphenopopliteal junction, while reflux was transferred to the SSV in 34 veins (22.7%), and was drained by a tributary vein in the thigh in 15 veins (11.3%).

Conclusions

Approximately one-third of the studied GVs had reflux, mostly segmental, mean caliber was 2.7 mm, and mean depth was 11 mm. Reflux in the SSV originating from the GV was detected in 22% of the evaluated veins.

Superficial Venous Disease-An Updated Review

BACKGROUND

This review article provides an updated review of a relatively common pathology with various manifestations. Superficial venous diseases (SVDs) are a broad spectrum of venous vascular disease that predominantly affects the body's lower extremities. The most serious manifestation of this disease includes varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency, stasis dermatitis, venous ulcers, superficial venous thrombosis, reticular veins, and spider telangiectasias.

METHODS

The anatomy, pathophysiology, and risk factors of SVD were discussed during this review. The risk factors for developing SVD were related to race, age, sex, lifestyle, and certain genetic conditions as well as comorbid deep vein thrombosis. Various classification systems were listed, focusing on the most common one-the revised Clinical-Etiology-Anatomy-Pathophysiology classification. The clinical features including history and physical examination findings elicited in SVD were outlined.

RESULTS

Imaging modalities utilized in SVD were highlighted. Duplex ultrasound is the first line in evaluating SVD but magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography venography, plethysmography, and conventional venography are feasible options in the event of an ambiguous venous duplex ultrasound study. Treatment options highlighted in this review ranged from conservative treatment with compression stockings, which could be primary or adjunctive to pharmacologic topical and systemic agents such as azelaic acid, diuretics, plant extracts, medical foods, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, anticoagulants and skin substitutes for different stages of SVD. Interventional treatment modalities include thermal ablative techniques like radiofrequency ablationss, endovenous laser ablation, endovenous steam ablation, and endovenous microwave ablation as well as nonthermal strategies such as the Varithena (polidocanol microfoam) sclerotherapy, VenaSeal (cyanoacrylate) ablation, and Endovenous mechanochemical ablation. Surgical treatments are also available and include debridement, vein ligation, stripping, and skin grafting.

CONCLUSIONS

SVDs are prevalent and have varied manifestations predominantly in the lower extremities. Several studies highlight the growing clinical and financial burden of these diseases. This review provides an update on the pathophysiology, classification, clinical features, and imaging findings as well as the conservative, pharmacological, and interventional treatment options indicated for different SVD pathologies. It aims to expedite the timely deployment of therapies geared toward reducing the significant morbidity associated with SVD especially varicose veins, venous ulcers, and venous insufficiency, to improve the quality of life of these patients and prevent complications.

Variations of the Saphenopopliteal Junction: An Ultrasonography Study in a Young Population, A Systematic Review and A Meta-Analysis

Saphenopopliteal junction classification has been developing, but still the precise knowledge of junction type is crucial for proper surgical treatment. We examined the saphenopopliteal junction by duplex venous scanning in 244 extremities in healthy volunteers (median age: 23.0 years, 83 females, 39 male) and performed a meta-analysis of 13 studies focusing on structural types of the junction. According to Schweighoffer's classification we distinguished 5 types of the junction and we subdivided type A according to Cavezzi's classification of gastrocnemial veins termination into two. We added type F (small saphenous vein-SSV terminates into popliteal vein-PV), described especially in cadaveric studies. In our study, the most frequent type was A1 (96 cases), followed by C (70), B (48), A2 (20), E (6), D (3) and F (0). The pooled prevalence estimate for types A + B + D + E was 54.7% (95% CI 40.9-69.6%) and for type C 24.4% (95% CI 19.3-29.5%), whereas in 17.1% (95% CI 6.3-27.9%) of cases, the SSV terminated in the PV with no cranial extension present. The knowledge of the saphenopopliteal junction and its variations prevalence can help clinicians to quickly identify the real type of the junction during routine examination. In mid-European population, the main type is A1 and worldwide type A.

Effect of junctional reflux on the venous clinical severity score in patients with insufficiency of the great saphenous vein (JURY study)

OBJECTIVE

Effective treatment options are available for chronic venous insufficiency associated with superficial venous reflux. Although many patients with C2 and C3 disease based on the CEAP (Clinical-Etiological-Anatomical-Pathophysiological) classification have combined great saphenous vein (GSV) and saphenofemoral junction (SFJ) reflux, some may not have concomitant SFJ reflux. Several payors have determined that symptom severity in patients without SFJ reflux does not warrant treatment. In patients planned for venous ablation, we tested whether Venous Clinical Severity Scores (VCSS) are equivalent in those with GSV reflux alone compared with those with both GSV and SFJ reflux.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted at 10 centers. Inclusion criteria were: candidate for endovenous ablation as determined by treating physician; 18 to 80 years of age; GSV reflux with or without SFJ reflux on ultrasound; and C2 or C3 disease. Exclusion criteria were prior deep vein thrombosis; prior vein ablation on the index limb; ilio-caval obstruction; and renal, hepatic, or heart failure requiring prior hospitalization. An a priori sample size was calculated. We used multiple linear regression (adjusted for patient characteristics) to compare differences in VCSS scores of the two groups at baseline, and to test whether scores were equivalent using a priori equivalence boundaries of +1 and -1. In secondary analyses, we tested differences in VCSS scores in patients with C2 and C3 disease separately.

RESULTS

A total of 352 patients were enrolled; 64.2% (n = 226) had SFJ reflux, and 35.8% (n = 126) did not. The two groups did not differ by major clinical characteristics. The mean age of the cohort was 53.9 ± 14.3 years; women comprised 74.2%; White patients 85.8%; and body mass index was 27.8 ± 6.1 kg/m2. The VCSS scores in patients with and without SFJ reflux were found to be equivalent; SFJ reflux was not a significant predictor of VCSS score; and mean VCSS scores did not differ significantly (6.4 vs 6.6, respectively, P = .40). In secondary subset analyses, VCSS scores were equivalent between C2 patients with and without SFJ reflux, and VCSS scores of C3 patients with SFJ reflux were lower than those without SFJ reflux.

CONCLUSIONS

Symptom severity is equivalent in patients with GSV reflux with or without SFJ reflux. The absence of SFJ reflux alone should not determine the treatment paradigm in patients with symptomatic chronic venous insufficiency. Patients with GSV reflux who meet clinical criteria for treatment should have equivalent treatment regardless of whether or not they have SFJ reflux.

The 2023 Society for Vascular Surgery, American Venous Forum, and American Vein and Lymphatic Society clinical practice guidelines for the management of varicose veins of the lower extremities. Part II: Endorsed by the Society of Interventional Radiology and the Society for Vascular Medicine

The Society for Vascular Surgery, the American Venous Forum, and the American Vein and Lymphatic Society recently published Part I of the 2022 clinical practice guidelines on varicose veins. Recommendations were based on the latest scientific evidence researched following an independent systematic review and meta-analysis of five critical issues affecting the management of patients with lower extremity varicose veins, using the patients, interventions, comparators, and outcome system to answer critical questions. Part I discussed the role of duplex ultrasound scanning in the evaluation of varicose veins and treatment of superficial truncal reflux. Part II focuses on evidence supporting the prevention and management of varicose vein patients with compression, on treatment with drugs and nutritional supplements, on evaluation and treatment of varicose tributaries, on superficial venous aneurysms, and on the management of complications of varicose veins and their treatment. All guidelines were based on systematic reviews, and they were graded according to the level of evidence and the strength of recommendations, using the GRADE method. All ungraded Consensus Statements were supported by an extensive literature review and the unanimous agreement of an expert, multidisciplinary panel. Ungraded Good Practice Statements are recommendations that are supported only by indirect evidence. The topic, however, is usually noncontroversial and agreed upon by most stakeholders. The Implementation Remarks contain technical information that supports the implementation of specific recommendations. This comprehensive document includes a list of all recommendations (Parts I-II), ungraded consensus statements, implementation remarks, and best practice statements to aid practitioners with appropriate, up-to-date management of patients with lower extremity varicose veins.

Syncope (fainting on standing from squatting) due to massive venous reflux into lower limb varicose veins - Case report

A 42-year-old man presented with very large lower limb varicose veins bilaterally and an 8-month history of fainting when standing up from a squatting position. He had been investigated for syncope by a cardiologist with no abnormality found on electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, 24-h electrocardiogram or 48-h blood pressure monitoring. Venous duplex ultrasonography showed bilaterally great saphenous vein reflux, with each vein having a diameter of 23.5 and 24.0 mm at the groin, and a similar dilation along the whole vein to ankle. These veins were successfully ablated with endovenous laser ablation, immediately following which the syncope disappeared and has not returned. We calculate that before treatment, the patient had approximately 500 ml of blood refluxing passively with gravity from his deep venous system on standing into his incompetent great saphenous veins and associated varicosities, which would account for his postural syncope.

Approach to the Patient with Non-cardiac Leg Swelling

One of the most common reasons for patient visits in the outpatient practice is lower extremity swelling. Non-cardiac etiologies are the most frequent reason for these encounters. The approach to this patient population will focus on the 7 key questions to initiate the gathering of historical information on the etiology of leg swelling. Figures and tables will complement the text for diagnosing lower extremity swelling. In this article, the common non-cardiac etiologies will be reviewed which include medications, chronic venous insufficiency, lymphatic disease, lipedema, venous thrombosis, and musculoskeletal etiologies.

Chronic Venous Disease of the Lower Extremities: A State-of-the Art Review

Chronic venous disease is a common disease, the prevalence of which increases with age, and can cause debilitating symptoms that adversely affect the quality of life. The risk factors include family history, female sex, obesity, pregnancy, parity, and history of deep vein thrombosis. Moreover, it is associated with venous obstruction, reflux, or both, which, in turn, leads to ambulatory venous hypertension. Chronic venous disease is the leading cause of leg ulcers, which place a significant cost burden on the health care system. Compression therapy remains the cornerstone of treatment, particularly for more advanced disease. Superficial saphenous vein reflux can be associated with significant symptoms. Catheter techniques, both thermal and nonthermal, have demonstrated efficacy and safety in successful closure and symptom improvement. Deep vein obstruction can be broadly divided into thrombotic and nonthrombotic and can lead to symptomatic chronic venous disease. Recanalization using balloons and stents has been increasingly used and studied in such patients. It is critical to develop training opportunities and guidelines to improve evidence-based and appropriate care for cardiologists treating chronic venous disease.

Relationship between clinical severity and hemodynamic impact of great saphenous vein incompetence using strain gauge plethysmography and duplex ultrasound

Objectives

To evaluate the relation of quantitative Duplex ultrasound (DUS) and strain gauge plethysmography (SGP) parameters with clinical severity and quality of life in patients with superficial venous incompetence.

Methods

DUS volume flow and distal SGP refilling times (T50 and T90) were evaluated in 152 patients (164 Limbs) with superficial incompetence. Clinical severity and quality of life were evaluated with C of the CEAP classification, venous clinical severity score (VCSS), Aberdeen varicose vein questionnaire (AVVQ), and EuroQol 5D-3L.

Results

Higher DUS volume flow was associated with higher C in CEAP scores. Volume flow was also related to T50 and T90. Shorter T50 and T90 were associated with higher C in CEAP and VCSS. T50 was also associated with EQ-5DVAS. Reflux extension to the foot wase associated with shorter T50 and T90 and higher DUS volume flow.

Conclusions

DUS volume flow and SGP refilling times are related with clinical severity and provide quantitative information regarding venous function in patients with superficial incompetence.

A prospective multicentre randomized clinical trial comparing endovenous laser ablation, using a 1470 nm diode laser in combination with a Tulip-TipTM fiber versus radiofrequency (Closure FAST™ VNUS®), in the treatment of primary varicose veins

BACKGROUND

The treatment of chronic venous disease, has largely shifted from high ligation and stripping to endovenous thermal ablation (EVTA) techniques, because of its comparable efficacy and lack of invasiveness. This clinical trial aimed to compare the efficacy of two thermal ablation techniques, endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) 1470-nm with Tulip-TipTM fiber and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) ClosureFastTM using a non-inferiority design for occlusion rate (primary outcome).

METHODS

A prospective multicentre randomized clinical trial randomized 280 patients for the treatment of great saphenous vein (GSV) reflux. Primary outcome was the GSV occlusion rate, secondary outcome factors were the possible side-effects of the treatment such as pain, ecchymosis, quality of Life (CIVIQ-20), revised Venous Clinical Severity Score (r-VCSS). One-year follow-up period.

RESULTS

The total occlusion rates at one year follow-up were 96.4% and 94.5% in the EVLA and RFA groups respectively (p = 0.15). Regarding secondary outcomes, such as postoperative CIVIQ-20, r-VCSS, analgesia, absenteeism, there was no significant difference between both treatment groups.

CONCLUSIONS

RFA and EVLA, using a 1470 nm laser with Tulip-TipTM fiber, of the GSV results in equal occlusion rates at one year, with comparable postoperative pain and improved quality of life.

Supplement of Clinical Practice Guidelines for Endovenous Thermal Ablation for Varicose Veins: Overuse for the Inappropriate Indication

While endovenous thermal ablation (ETA) become first choice of treatment for varicose veins, overuse of ETA for the inappropriate indication is growing problem. ETA is performed not only on varicose cases without symptom but also non diseased cases with segmental reflux of saphenous veins or no reflux. Indications of ETA was demonstrated in “the Clinical Practice Guidelines for ETA for Varicose Veins 2019” by Japanese Society of Phlebology. Purpose of this supplement is description of basics of correct indication for ETA. We also demonstrate the typical case of overuse of ETA for wrong indication. (This is a translation of Jpn J Phlebol 2020; 31: 39–43.)

Treatment of chronic venous disorder: A comprehensive review

Chronic venous disorder (CVD) is highly prevalent vascular disorder affecting up to 45% of the general population, with clinical manifestations ranging from teleangiectasias to venous leg ulcers (VLUs). We examined the currently available data in order to provide an updated, comprehensive review on treatment options of CVD. We searched MEDLINE, Cochrane, Scopus, EMBASE, ClinicalTrials, and OpenGrey databases for relevant articles in English published until November 2020. Compression treatment is the mainstay of conservative treatment. Pharmacological treatment can provide significant symptomatic relief and hence it should be considered as part of conservative treatment. Transcutaneous Lacer treatment (TCL) is a safe and effective alternative option to sclerotherapy for treatment of C1 stage. High ligation and stripping (HL/S), ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy (UGFS), endovenous thermal ablation (EVTA) systems and non thermal non tumescent ablation (NTNT) systems are safe and efficacious first-line options for treatment of saphenous insufficiency. Interventional treatment of co-existing incompetent perforator veins (IPVs) is not supported by contemporary evidence. Regarding deep venous insufficiency (DVI), treatment of symptomatic femoroiliocaval occlusive venous disease refractory to conservative treatment with percutaneous transluminal venoplasty stenting has produced encouraging results.

How effective is cyanoacrylate closure in small saphenous vein insufficiency? A single center experience

OBJECTIVES

The present study was aimed to evaluate the efficacy and early outcomes of n-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) ablation in small saphenous vein (SSV) insufficiency.

METHODS

In this single-center, retrospective, single-arm study, NBCA ablation was performed in 80 patients with SSV insufficiency between September 2018 and May 2020. Primary outcomes (anatomic success rate and occlusion rate) and secondary outcomes (VCSS and AVVQ scores) of the patients were analyzed.

RESULTS

No technical failure and device-related complications were encountered. Anatomic success rate was 100% after procedures. Each treated SSV was occluded on colored Doppler ultrasonography immediately after the procedure, and all veins remained occluded at 2 weeks after the procedure. Partial recanalization was observed in five patients at 12-month follow-up. Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed an occlusion rates at 6 months and 12 months follow-up were 97.5% and 93.75%, respectively. The mean pretreatment VCSS (4.72 ± 2.04) decreased to 1.61 ± 0.93, 0.87 ± 0.58, and 0.73 ± 0.52 at 2 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months after treatment, respectively (p < .001). The mean pretreatment AVVQ score (11.92 ± 2.23) decreased to 8.2 ± 1.89, 4.2 ± 1.16, and 3.32 ± 1.19 at 2 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months after treatment, respectively (p < .001). The Clinical, Etiologic, Anatomic, and Pathophysiology clinical classification at 12 months demonstrated a significant reduction in disease severity compared with preoperative values (p < .001). There was no mortality and major adverse events including anaphylaxis and pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) related to procedure after follow-ups. Moreover, there were no symptoms or signs of any sural nerve injury and no cases of skin necrosis, infection, or hyperpigmentation. In addition, no hematoma, deep venous thrombosis, and hypersensitivity reactions were observed. Phlebitis-like abnormal reaction was observed in three patients (3.8%).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, in patients with SSV insufficiency, NBCA ablation with VenaBlock® system appears to be an effective and reliable treatment method. At the 12-month follow-up, the NBCA of SSVs showed a low recanalization rate and had a satisfactory improvement on the VCSS and AVVQ scores.

Ultrasound-assisted varicose vein surgery and endovenous laser ablation using 1470-nm laser for treatment of great saphenous vein incompetence has similar outcomes at 1 year: A single-center prospective randomized study

BACKGROUND

Technical errors are the most common preventable cause of recurrence after high ligation and stripping procedures for the treatment of great saphenous vein incompetence. Ultrasound-assisted varicose vein surgery (UAVS) uses intraoperative ultrasound during high ligation and stripping to minimize such failures, although no data have been reported regarding its use during open surgery. The present study compared the short-term outcomes of UAVS and endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) with a 1470-nm laser.

METHODS

The present prospective randomized study was conducted from January 2019 to December 2019. We compared 40 patients who had undergone UAVS under regional anesthesia with an equal number of patients who had undergone EVLA under tumescent anesthesia. Both groups received 1 week of standardized postoperative analgesia. The improvements in the pain score, venous clinical severity score, and recurrence at 6 months and 1 year were studied.

RESULTS

No significant differences were found in either clinical or radiologic great saphenous vein recurrence after UAVS compared with EVLA at 1 year. The mean pain score at 8 hours after the procedure was higher in the UAVS group (3.7 ± 1.2 vs 2.9 ± 1.0; P = .03). At 1 week, the score was higher in the EVLA group (1.8 ± 0.7 vs 1.4 ± 0.5; P = .01). At 6 months, the venous clinical severity score had improved from 9.2 ± 3.7 to 2.4 ± 1.4 in the UAVS group and from 9.3 ± 3.2 to 2.1 ± 0.8 in the EVLA group (P = .64). At 1 year, the corresponding scores were 1.3 ± 0.7 and 1.4 ± 0.6 (P = .21).

CONCLUSIONS

UAVS has high technical success, making it a suitable alternative to EVLA using a 1470-nm laser.

Cyanoacrylate Closure of Small Saphenous Vein Insufficiency

BACKGROUND

As minimally invasive techniques were issued, endovenous thermal ablations have emerged. However, the thermal-associated complication has been reported in the treatment of small saphenous vein (SSV) insufficiency, such as sural nerve injury. Recently introduced cyanoacrylate closure (CAC) is a nonthermal modality, so this thermal-associated complication can be avoided.

OBJECTIVE

This retrospective study analyzed the feasibility, safety, and 2-year results of CAC for treating SSV insufficiency, particularly the incidence of sural nerve injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred sixty-three SSV insufficiencies in 128 patients were treated with CAC were reviewed. Pain, venous severity, and quality of life (QoL) scores were evaluated. Postoperative duplex scanning also evaluated anatomical and clinical success rates.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 56.8 years. The initial technical success rate was 100%. The occlusion rate after 2 years was 96.3%. Pain, venous severity, and QoL scores were improved significantly from 2.4 to 0.0, 4.39 to 0.47, and 11.95 to 2.69, respectively, before and 2 years after CAC. No major complications were observed, such as sural nerve injury.

CONCLUSION

Cyanoacrylate closure for the ablation of SSV insufficiency could be a great alternative to endothermal ablation with an excellent success rate and shorter procedure time.

Interventions for great saphenous vein incompetence

BACKGROUND

Great saphenous vein (GSV) incompetence, causing varicose veins and venous insufficiency, makes up the majority of lower-limb superficial venous diseases. Treatment options for GSV incompetence include surgery (also known as high ligation and stripping), laser and radiofrequency ablation, and ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy. Newer treatments include cyanoacrylate glue, mechanochemical ablation, and endovenous steam ablation. These techniques avoid the need for a general anaesthetic, and may result in fewer complications and improved quality of life (QoL). These treatments should be compared to inform decisions on treatment for varicosities in the GSV. This is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in 2011.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of endovenous laser ablation (EVLA), radiofrequency ablation (RFA), endovenous steam ablation (EVSA), ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy (UGFS), cyanoacrylate glue, mechanochemical ablation (MOCA) and high ligation and stripping (HL/S) for the treatment of varicosities of the great saphenous vein (GSV).

SEARCH METHODS

The Cochrane Vascular Information Specialist searched the Cochrane Vascular Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and AMED databases, and World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and ClinicalTrials.gov trials registers to 2 November 2020. We undertook reference checking to identify additional studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) treating participants for varicosities of the GSV using EVLA, RFA, EVSA, UGFS, cyanoacrylate glue, MOCA or HL/S. Key outcomes of interest are technical success, recurrence, complications and QoL.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently selected trials, applied Cochrane's risk of bias tool, and extracted data. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and assessed the certainty of evidence using GRADE.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified 11 new RCTs for this update. Therefore, we included 24 RCTs with 5135 participants. Duration of follow-up ranged from five weeks to eight years. Five comparisons included single trials. For comparisons with more than one trial, we could only pool data for 'technical success' and 'recurrence' due to heterogeneity in outcome definitions and time points reported. All trials had some risk of bias concerns. Here we report the clinically most relevant comparisons. EVLA versus RFA Technical success was comparable up to five years (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.41 to 2.38; 5 studies, 780 participants; moderate-certainty evidence); over five years, there was no evidence of a difference (OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.30 to 2.41; 1 study, 291 participants; low-certainty evidence). One study reported recurrence, showing no clear difference at three years (OR 1.53, 95% CI 0.78 to 2.99; 291 participants; low-certainty evidence), but a benefit for RFA may be seen at five years (OR 2.77, 95% CI 1.52 to 5.06; 291 participants; low-certainty evidence). EVLA versus UGFS Technical success may be better in EVLA participants up to five years (OR 6.13, 95% CI 0.98 to 38.27; 3 studies, 588 participants; low-certainty evidence), and over five years (OR 6.47, 95% CI 2.60 to 16.10; 3 studies, 534 participants; low-certainty evidence). There was no clear difference in recurrence up to three years and at five years (OR 0.68, 95% CI 0.20 to 2.36; 2 studies, 443 participants; and OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.40 to 2.87; 2 studies, 418 participants; very low-certainty evidence, respectively). EVLA versus HL/S Technical success may be better in EVLA participants up to five years (OR 2.31, 95% CI 1.27 to 4.23; 6 studies, 1051 participants; low-certainty evidence). No clear difference in technical success was seen at five years and beyond (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.50; 5 studies, 874 participants; low-certainty evidence). Recurrence was comparable within three years and at 5 years (OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.47 to 1.29; 7 studies, 1459 participants; and OR 1.09, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.76; 7 studies, 1267 participants; moderate-certainty evidence, respectively). RFA versus MOCA There was no clear difference in technical success (OR 1.76, 95% CI 0.06 to 54.15; 3 studies, 435 participants; low-certainty evidence), or recurrence (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.21 to 4.81; 3 studies, 389 participants; low-certainty evidence). Long-term data are not available. RFA versus HL/S No clear difference in technical success was detected up to five years (OR 5.71, 95% CI 0.64 to 50.81; 2 studies, 318 participants; low-certainty evidence); over five years, there was no evidence of a difference (OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.29 to 2.69; 1 study, 289 participants; low-certainty evidence). No clear difference in recurrence was detected up to three years (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.58 to 1.51; 4 studies, 546 participants; moderate-certainty evidence); but a possible long-term benefit for RFA was seen (OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.22 to 0.75; 1 study, 289 participants; low-certainty evidence). UGFS versus HL/S Meta-analysis showed a possible benefit for HL/S compared with UGFS in technical success up to five years (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.94; 4 studies, 954 participants; low-certainty evidence), and over five years (OR 0.09, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.30; 3 studies, 525 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). No clear difference was detected in recurrence up to three years (OR 1.81, 95% CI 0.87 to 3.77; 3 studies, 822 participants; low-certainty evidence), and after five years (OR 1.24, 95% CI 0.57 to 2.71; 3 studies, 639 participants; low-certainty evidence). Complications were generally low for all interventions, but due to different definitions and time points, we were unable to draw conclusions (very-low certainty evidence). Similarly, most studies evaluated QoL but used different questionnaires at variable time points. Rates of QoL improvement were comparable between interventions at follow-up (moderate-certainty evidence).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Our conclusions are limited due to the relatively small number of studies for each comparison and differences in outcome definitions and time points reported. Technical success was comparable between most modalities. EVLA may offer improved technical success compared to UGFS or HL/S. HL/S may have improved technical success compared to UGFS. No evidence of a difference was detected in recurrence, except for a possible long-term benefit for RFA compared to EVLA or HL/S. Studies which provide more evidence on the breadth of treatments are needed. Future trials should seek to standardise clinical terminology of outcome measures and the time points at which they are measured.

Comparison Between Cyanoacrylate Embolization and Radiofrequency Ablation for Superficial Venous Incompetence: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Chronic venous disease is a debilitating condition involving great saphenous vein (GSV) incompetence.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the efficacy and effectiveness of cyanoacrylate embolization (CAE) versus radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in patients with incompetent GSVs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane library were searched. The primary outcomes were the Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS), Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire (AVVQ), closure rate, and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis included 378 and 590 patients who underwent CAE and RFA, respectively. Cyanoacrylate embolization was comparable with RFA in VCSS (weighted mean difference [WMD] = -0.03, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.18 to 0.12, p = .686), AVVQ (WMD = -0.08, 95% CI: -0.38 to 0.21, p = .570), closure rate (odds ratio [OR] = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.18-2.01, p = .414), and VAS (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.24, 95% CI: -0.59 to 1.06, p = .523). There were no significant differences between CAE and RFA regarding the occurrence of phlebitis (OR = 1.22, 95% CI: 0.70-2.13, p = .479) and pigmentation (OR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.18-1.31, p = .153), but CAE had a lower risk of ecchymosis (OR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.25-0.81, p = .007) and paresthesia (OR = 0.16, 95% CI: 0.03-0.99, p = .049).

CONCLUSION

Cyanoacrylate embolization and RFA demonstrated no significant differences in VCSS, AVVQ, closure rate, and pain score for patients with incompetent GSVs. Patients in the CAE group had a lower risk of ecchymosis and paresthesia compared with the RFA group.

A randomized controlled trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of transluminal injection of foam sclerotherapy compared with ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy during endovenous catheter ablation in patients with varicose veins

OBJECTIVE

We compared the safety, need for additional foam sclerotherapy, and 1-year venous clinical severity score (VCSS) improvement in the limbs of patients with chronic venous disease and great saphenous vein (GSV) reflux. These patients had undergone endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) using a 1470-nm diode laser and concurrent foam sclerotherapy (1% polidocanol) through the access sheath (transluminal injection of foam sclerotherapy [TLFS]) or EVLA and concurrent direct-puncture ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy (UGFS).

METHODS

In the present study, we screened 467 patients (577 legs) with symptomatic primary GSV reflux for randomization to either TLFS with EVLA (n = 103 legs; TLFS group) or UGFS with EVLA (n = 94 legs; UGFS group). The exclusion criteria were (1) recurrent varicose veins after previous intervention; (2) hypersensitivity reaction to sclerotherapy; (3) acute deep vein thrombosis; (4) serious lower limb ischemic disease; (5) a coagulation disorder; and (6) simultaneous EVLA of both GSVs and small saphenous veins. The correlations of the VCSS changes with the clinical features, such as age, sex, CEAP (clinical, etiologic, anatomic, pathophysiologic) classification, total amount of sclerosant used at the original procedure, multiple punctures (more than two) for sclerotherapy at the original procedure, the use of TLFS, and linear endovenous energy density, were estimated using logistic regression.

RESULTS

No significant differences in the distribution of the CEAP classification were observed between the two groups. After 12 months of follow-up, all truncal veins were occluded. The VCSS had significantly improved in the TLFS group compared with the UGFS group (UGFS, -7.4 ± 1.8; TLFS, -8.7 ± 1.5; P < .0001). Multivariate analysis revealed that TLFS was the only significant factor for an improved VCSS (hazard ratio, 0.63; 95% confidence interval, 0.32-0.96; P < .0001). The need for additional second-stage sclerotherapy was significantly avoided in the TLFS group (n = 10; 10%) compared with the UGFS group (n = 51; 54%; P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

TLFS combined with EVLA is a safe and feasible procedure that improves the VCSS and reduces the need for additional second-stage interventions compared with UGFS combined with EVLA.

Cutaneous findings in patients with chronic venous insufficiency

BACKGROUND

Venous hypertension causes many different cutaneous findings such as varicosities, telangiectasia, edema, and pigmentation, dermatitis, and venous ulcers on the skin.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the cutaneous signs and symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and to examine their contribution to early diagnosis.

METHODS

A total of 150 patients were included in the study who applied to the dermatology outpatient clinic and were diagnosed with skin disease related to CVI or had skin findings. Patient's age, gender, complaints, occupation, additional diseases, drug usage, history of prolonged standing and travel, smoking habit, number of pregnancies, history of varicose veins in the family, dermatological diagnosis/findings, and venous Doppler ultrasonography reports were examined retrospectively.

RESULTS

56% of patients were women. Mean age was 56.69 ± 13.6 years. Overall, 82.7% of total patients had at least one skin finding. The most frequent skin findings except varicose veins were insufficiency dermatitis accounted for 32.7% of patients, telangiectasia, and pigmentation which were comprised 25.3%, 19.3% of the total number of patients respectively. In addition to this, 48.7% of patients had itching problems and 32.7% had pain. Moreover, 46% of patients presented superficial vein insufficiency, while 8.7% had deep vein insufficiency. For 47.3% of patients, vein diameter dilation was observed and 11.3% suffered from perforating vein insufficiency. In terms of Clinical-Etiologic-Anatomic-Pathophysiologic (CEAP) classification, scores of 52% of the patients were C3 and lower, while scores of 48% of total patients were C4a and higher.

CONCLUSIONS

Early diagnosis and treatment of chronic venous insufficiency could prevent further chronic processes such as venous ulceration which is an advanced CVI finding. Thus, assessing the early skin findings might be important to identify the underlying venous insufficiency disease.

Registry to investigate the efficacy and safety of the VenaBlock© VeIn SEaling system for VaRicose veins in SingApore - Six months results of the RIVIERA trial

BACKGROUND

The Venablock^© Venous Closure System (Invamed, Ankara, Turkey) is a novel cyanoacrylate-based non-thermal non-tumescent embolization device to block refluxing truncal veins for chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins. The aim was to prospectively evaluate the safety and 6 months efficacy of Venablock^© for the treatment of primary great saphenous vein (GSV) and small saphenous vein (SSV) incompetency in a multi-ethnic cohort from Singapore.

METHODS

This was a single arm, single investigator prospective study of 29 patients (39 limbs, 39 truncal veins) recruited over a 5-month period (August 2019 to February 2020), who were treated with the Venablock^© device at a tertiary vascular unit in Singapore. Patients with symptomatic varicose veins (C2-6) and had truncal reflux > 0.5 second on venous Duplex ultrasound were included. Follow-up occurred at 2 weeks, 3 and 6 months with dedicated quality of life questionnaires and a targeted Duplex ultrasound performed to check for continued venous occlusion.

RESULT

Mean age was 61.4 (±11.0) years and mean BMI was 26.2 (±5.7) kg/m². 11/29 (37.9%) were males. Most common CEAP class treated was 2 (12/29, 41.3%). Mean diameter of treated GSV was 5.7 (±2.0) mm, 4.8 (±1.7) mm and 4.2 (±1.3) mm for the proximal, mid and distal above knee segments respectively. Mean time from access puncture to sheath removal was 23.4 (±10.0) mins. Vein occlusion at 2 weeks, 3 and 6 months was 39/39 (100%), 39/39 (100%) and 36/37 (97.2%) respectively. 5/29 (17.2%) developed puncture site infections, of which 3/29 (7.7%) required formal surgical drainage. 3/29 (7.7%) developed phlebitis. At 6 months, revised Venous Clinical Severity Score improved from 5.2 (±3.5) to 2.1 (±2.9; p < .001); EuroQol-5 Dimension score, from 7.4 (±2.1) to 5.7 (±1.4; p < .001); Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire score, from 18.1 (±15.5) to 7.9 (±8.9; p = .007); and Chronic Venous Insufficiency Questionnaire, from 18.6 (±16.2) to 4.5 (±6.3; p < .001).

CONCLUSION

Venablock^© is a safe and efficacious option of treating truncal venous insufficiency in a multi-ethnic Asian cohort from Singapore in the short term. There is a significant improvement in QoL. Longer follow-up is required to assess the durability of this technique, in particular the higher puncture site infection rates observed compared to other glue-based therapies.

Why Venous Leg Ulcers Have Difficulty Healing: Overview on Pathophysiology, Clinical Consequences, and Treatment

Venous leg ulcers (VLUs) are one of the most common ulcers of the lower extremity. VLU affects many individuals worldwide, could pose a significant socioeconomic burden to the healthcare system, and has major psychological and physical impacts on the affected individual. VLU often occurs in association with post-thrombotic syndrome, advanced chronic venous disease, varicose veins, and venous hypertension. Several demographic, genetic, and environmental factors could trigger chronic venous disease with venous dilation, incompetent valves, venous reflux, and venous hypertension. Endothelial cell injury and changes in the glycocalyx, venous shear-stress, and adhesion molecules could be initiating events in VLU. Increased endothelial cell permeability and leukocyte infiltration, and increases in inflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, iron deposition, and tissue metabolites also contribute to the pathogenesis of VLU. Treatment of VLU includes compression therapy and endovenous ablation to occlude the axial reflux. Other interventional approaches such as subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery and iliac venous stent have shown mixed results. With good wound care and compression therapy, VLU usually heals within 6 months. VLU healing involves orchestrated processes including hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling and the contribution of different cells including leukocytes, platelets, fibroblasts, vascular smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, and keratinocytes as well as the release of various biomolecules including transforming growth factor-β, cytokines, chemokines, MMPs, tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs), elastase, urokinase plasminogen activator, fibrin, collagen, and albumin. Alterations in any of these physiological wound closure processes could delay VLU healing. Also, these histological and soluble biomarkers can be used for VLU diagnosis and assessment of its progression, responsiveness to healing, and prognosis. If not treated adequately, VLU could progress to non-healed or granulating VLU, causing physical immobility, reduced quality of life, cellulitis, severe infections, osteomyelitis, and neoplastic transformation. Recalcitrant VLU shows prolonged healing time with advanced age, obesity, nutritional deficiencies, colder temperature, preexisting venous disease, deep venous thrombosis, and larger wound area. VLU also has a high, 50-70% recurrence rate, likely due to noncompliance with compression therapy, failure of surgical procedures, incorrect ulcer diagnosis, progression of venous disease, and poorly understood pathophysiology. Understanding the molecular pathways underlying VLU has led to new lines of therapy with significant promise including biologics such as bilayer living skin construct, fibroblast derivatives, and extracellular matrices and non-biologic products such as poly-N-acetyl glucosamine, human placental membranes amnion/chorion allografts, ACT1 peptide inhibitor of connexin 43, sulodexide, growth factors, silver dressings, MMP inhibitors, and modulators of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, the immune response and tissue metabolites. Preventive measures including compression therapy and venotonics could also reduce the risk of progression to chronic venous insufficiency and VLU in susceptible individuals.

A randomized controlled noninferiority trial comparing radiofrequency with stripping and conservative hemodynamic cure for venous insufficiency technique for insufficiency of the great saphenous vein

OBJECTIVE

The quality of available evidence regarding new minimally invasive techniques to abolish great saphenous vein reflux is moderate. The present study assessed whether radiofrequency ablation (RFA) was noninferior to high ligation and stripping (HLS) and conservative hemodynamic cure for venous insufficiency (CHIVA) for clinical and ultrasound recurrence at 2 years in patients with primary varicose veins (VVs) due to great saphenous vein (GSV) insufficiency.

METHODS

We performed a randomized, single-center, open-label, controlled, noninferiority trial to compare RFA and 2 surgical techniques for the treatment of primary VVs due to GSV insufficiency. The noninferiority margin was set at 15% for absolute differences. Patients aged >18 years with primary VVs and GSV incompetence, with or without clinical symptoms, C2 to C6 CEAP (Clinical, Etiologic, Anatomic, Pathophysiologic) clinical class, and GSV diameter >4 mm were randomized with a 1:1:1 ratio to RFA, HLS, or CHIVA. The rate of clinical recurrence at 24 months was the primary endpoint and was analyzed using a delta noninferiority margin of 15%. Ultrasound recurrence, safety, and quality of life were secondary endpoints.

RESULTS

From December 2012 to June 2015, 225 limbs had been randomized to RFA, HLS, or CHIVA (n = 74, n = 75, and n = 76). Clinical follow-up and Doppler ultrasound examinations were performed at 1 week and 1, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. No differences in postoperative complications or pain were observed among the three groups. RFA was noninferior to HLS and CHIVA for clinical recurrence at 24 months, with an estimated difference in recurrence of 3% (95% confidence interval [CI], -4.8% to 10.7%; noninferiority P = .002) and -7% (95% CI, -17% to 3%; P < .001), respectively. For ultrasound recurrence, RFA was noninferior to CHIVA, with an estimated difference of -34% (95% CI, -47% to -20%; noninferiority P < .001) at 24 months. However, noninferiority could not be demonstrated compared with HLS (5.9%; 95% CI, -4.1 to 15.9; P = .073). No differences were found in quality of life among the three groups.

CONCLUSIONS

RFA was shown to be noninferior in terms of clinical recurrence to HLS and CHIVA in the treatment of VVs due to GSV insufficiency.

Antigen removal process preserves function of small diameter venous valved conduits, whereas SDS-decellularization results in significant valvular insufficiency

Chronic venous disease (CVD) is the most common reported chronic condition in the United States, affecting more than 25 million Americans. Regardless of its high occurrence, current therapeutic options are far from ideal due to their palliative nature. For best treatment outcomes, challenging cases of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) are treated by repair or replacement of venous valves. Regrettably, the success of venous valve transplant is dependent on the availability of autologous venous valves and hindered by the possibility of donor site complications and increased patient morbidity. Therefore, the use of alternative tissue sources to provide off-the-shelf venous valve replacements has potential to be extremely beneficial to the field of CVI. This manuscript demonstrates the capability of producing off-the-shelf fully functional venous valved extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffold conduits from bovine saphenous vein (SV), using an antigen removal (AR) method. AR ECM scaffolds maintained native SV structure-function relationships and associated venous valves function. Conversely, SDS decellularization caused significant changes to the collagen and elastin macromolecular structures, resulting in collagen fibril merging, elimination of fibril crimp, amalgaming collagen fibers and fragmentation of the inner elastic lamina. ECM changes induced by SDS decellularization resulted in significant venous valve dysfunction. Venous valved conduits generated using the AR approach have potential to serve as off-the-shelf venous valve replacements for CVI. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Retention of the structure and composition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins within xenogeneic scaffolds for tissue engineering is of crucial importance, due to the undeniable effect ECM proteins can impose on repopulating cells and function of the resultant biomaterial. This manuscript demonstrates that alteration or elimination of ECM proteins via commonly utilized decellularization approach results in complete disruption of venous valve function. Conversely, retention of the delicate ECM structure and composition of native venous tissue, using an antigen removal tissue processing method, results in preservation of native venous valve function.

Comparison of hand-held acoustic Doppler with point-of-care portable color Doppler ultrasound in the assessment of venous reflux disease

OBJECTIVE

Diagnostic-quality portable color Doppler ultrasound (PCD) offers convenient point-of-care venous reflux disease (VRD) diagnosis. Philips Lumify (Philips N.V., Best, The Netherlands), a high-fidelity broadband linear array transducer (4-12 MHz frequency), connects through a web-enabled smartphone or tablet to cloud software and offers B-mode and color Doppler imaging without pulsed wave Doppler capability. The aims of the study were to compare hand-held acoustic Doppler (HHD) vs PCD diagnostic performance using conventional duplex ultrasound (DUP) as the "gold standard" for VRD assessment, to assess effects of body mass index (BMI) and disease severity on diagnostic performance of HHD and PCD, and to determine whether PCD offers any diagnostic improvement over HHD in VRD assessment.

METHODS

There were 241 patients (65 male, 176 female; mean age, 55.5 ± 15.5 years; mean BMI, 32.2 ± 7.9 kg/m²). DUP (447 legs), PCD (262 legs), and HHD (217 legs) studied the great saphenous vein at above-knee (AK) and below-knee (BK) levels. A phlebologist performed HHD, whereas PCD and DUP were performed sequentially (PCD first) by an experienced technologist and interpreted independently. PCD was done blinded to DUP results. DUP findings were analyzed blinded to HHD and PCD results. Venous reflux was dichotomously assessed as <2 seconds and >2 seconds.

RESULTS

HHD improves from moderate to good sensitivity from AK level (68%) to BK level (94%) but suffers poor specificity that declines significantly from AK level (50%) to BK level (12%; P < .05). HHD positive predictive value exceeds its negative predictive value (NPV) and remains unchanged from AK level (71%) to BK level (72%). HHD NPV remains consistently poor at AK (48%) and BK (42%) levels. PCD has similar sensitivity from AK level (69%) to BK level (74%), better AK level (79%) vs BK level (58%) specificity (P < .05), similar positive predictive value for AK (76%) and BK levels (78%), and better NPV for AK level (72%) vs BK level (53%; P < .05). BMI range (<30 kg/m² vs ≥ 30 kg/m²) did not influence diagnostic performance of HHD and PCD significantly. HHD and PCD specificity was higher for Clinical, Etiology, Anatomy, and Pathophysiology (CEAP) class <4 compared with CEAP class ≥4 (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The relative diagnostic performance of HHD and PCD is highly dependent on insonation level. PCD advantages compared with HHD are marginally greater specificity at AK and BK levels and better NPV at AK level. Compared with HHD, PCD's disadvantage is lower sensitivity at BK level. Both HHD and PCD have higher specificity at AK level than at BK level. Overall, PCD offers only moderate sensitivity and specificity, making it inadequate for exclusion of significant venous reflux. Neither obesity nor CEAP class significantly influenced the general diagnostic performance of PCD or HHD.

The 2020 appropriate use criteria for chronic lower extremity venous disease of the American Venous Forum, the Society for Vascular Surgery, the American Vein and Lymphatic Society, and the Society of Interventional Radiology

BACKGROUND

Stimulated by published reports of potentially inappropriate application of venous procedures, the American Venous Forum and its Ethics Task Force in collaboration with multiple other professional societies including the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS), American Vein and Lymphatic Society (AVLS), and the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) developed the appropriate use criteria (AUC) for chronic lower extremity venous disease to provide clarity to the application of venous procedures, duplex ultrasound imaging, timing, and reimbursements.

METHODS

The AUC were developed using the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method, a validated method of developing appropriateness criteria in health care. By conducting a modified Delphi exercise and incorporating best available evidence and expert opinion, AUC were developed and scored.

RESULTS

There were 119 scenarios rated on a scale of 1 to 9 by an expert panel, with 1 being never appropriate and 9 being appropriate. The majority of scenarios consisted of symptomatic indications were deemed appropriate for venous intervention. For scenarios with anatomically short segments of reflux and/or no symptoms, the indications were rated less appropriate. For the indication of edema, a wide dispersion of ratings was observed especially for short segments of saphenous reflux or stenting for iliac/ inferior vena cava disease, noting that there are multifactorial causes of edema, some of which could coexist with venous disease and possibly impact effectiveness of treatment. Several scenarios were considered never appropriate, including treatment of saphenous veins with no reflux, iliac vein or inferior vena cava stenting for iliac vein compression as an incidental finding by imaging with minimal or no symptoms or signs, and incentivizing sonographers to find reflux.

CONCLUSIONS

The AUC statements are intended to serve as a guide to patient care, particularly in areas where high-quality evidence is lacking to aid clinicians in making day-to-day decisions for common venous interventions. This may also prove useful when applied on a population level, such as practice patterns, and not necessarily to dictate decision making for individual cases. As a product of a collaborative effort, it is hoped that this could be utilized by physicians and multiple stakeholders committed toward improving patient care and to identify and stimulate future research priorities.

Prospective randomized trial comparing radiofrequency ablation and complete saphenous vein stripping in patients with mild to moderate chronic venous disease with a 3-year follow-up

OBJECTIVE

To compare the use of the radiofrequency thermoablation of the saphenous vein with the ligation technique, and complete removal of the saphenous vein, from the saphenofemoral junction to the ankle.

METHODS

A total of 49 patients with chronic venous disease in the Comprehensive Classification System for Chronic Venous Disorders (CEAP) classes 2 to 4 for clinical signs, etiology, anatomic distribution and pathophysiology, were assessed at baseline, after 4 weeks, and after 1 year. The parameters assessed were complications, period of absence from activities, Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) and quality of life scores according to Aberdeen Varicose Veins Questionnaire (AVVQ). They were re-examined 1 and 3 years after treatment to evaluate recurrence rates.

RESULTS

The success rate per limb (p=0.540), VCSS (p=0.636), AVVQ (p=0.163), and clinical complications were similar in the two treatment groups. Nevertheless, the radiofrequency thermoablation group had significant shorter length of hospital stay (0.69±0.47) and absence from activities (8.62±4.53), p<000.1.

CONCLUSION

Patients submitted to radiofrequency thermoablation had an occlusion rate, clinical recurrence and improvement in quality of life comparable to removal of the saphenous vein. However, these patients spent less time hospitalized and away from their daily activities during recovering.

Bilateral iliac vein stenting reduces great and small saphenous venous reflux

Objective

Iliac vein stenting has been an evolving treatment option in the management of CVI secondary to iliac vein obstruction. Historically, treatment of CVI has been focused on the elimination of saphenous vein disease; however, the effect of reduction of iliac vein obstruction on superficial venous reflux remains largely unknown. This study aimed to identify the effect of iliac vein stenting on saphenous vein reflux.

Methods

In this retrospective study spanning course of five years, we performed 2681 venograms with venoplasties and stenting of the iliac veins. Pre-operative and post-operative venous mapping was performed via duplex ultrasonography. Patients who received any lower extremity vascular intervention between “pre-” and “post-stenting” duplex ultrasonography examination, other than iliac vein stenting, were excluded from analysis.

Results

One thousand six hundred forty-five patients, of which 63.2% were female, underwent iliac vein stenting; 1033 patients received bilateral intervention, whereas 356 and 259 patients received unilateral left and right stenting, respectively. The average age of the patient cohort was 66 (range 22–100; SD ± 13.9). The distribution CEAP scores of each limb at the time of intervention were: C2 (1%), C3 (25%), C4 (51%), C5 (5%), and C6 (18%). Bilateral iliac vein stenting significantly reduced reflux in the bilateral great saphenous and small saphenous veins by 363.8 ms ( p < 0.0001) and 345.4 ms ( p < 0.0002), respectively, but had no effect on ASV reflux. Unilateral stenting did not produce significant reductions in reflux, besides an average reduction of 573.2 ms ( p = 0.004) in the left great saphenous vein.

Conclusion

Bilateral iliac vein stenting decreased great saphenous vein and small saphenous vein reflux. Unilateral stenting did not demonstrate a significant reduction in saphenous reflux. Bilateral reduction in stenosis of the iliac veins may influence superficial venous reflux.

The V-Block Occlusion Stent and Sclerotherapy Device for Varicose Vein Treatment: A Retrospective Analysis

BACKGROUND

The procedure aims to show our results with a novel nontumescent, nonthermal technique to treat varicose veins. The V-block occlusion stent is a minimally invasive device for treating reflux of the great saphenous vein (GSV). It is an office-based procedure that does not require tumescence anesthesia. The V-block stent is a self-expandable device that functions as a vein occluder and blood clot trap. Once the V-block is in place, further treatment of the saphenous vein such as ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy can be performed. The V-block device is intended to eliminate the possibility of forwarding passage of clot and sclerosant (embolization) to the deep and pulmonary circulations.

METHODS

Patients were treated in an outpatient setting with the V-block occluding device. Follow-up was performed using duplex ultrasound to assess occlusion of the saphenous vein as well as the Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire and Venous Severity Scoring to determine changes in quality of life after the procedure. Patients were followed up at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after V-block placement. Duplex scanning was performed to confirm GSV occlusion at all follow-up visits. After deployment of the occlusion stent, a maximum of 2% polidocanol foam was injected with a double barrel syringe which simultaneously evacuated blood from the greater saphenous vein. Follow-up assessment for safety included evaluation of potential complications, device migration, and potential injury at the deployment site.

RESULTS

Fifty-one symptomatic subjects with documented GSV reflux were enrolled in the study. Complete occlusion of the GSV was achieved in 98% of the patients during the 7-day postprocedural visit. There was no injury at the deployment site. No migration of the V-block device was observed. No deep vein thrombosis or any other complication was recorded. One patient of the 50 patients and 51 procedures experienced an adverse event, phlebitis that resolved under conservative therapy within 4 days with no residual effect. There was a significant improvement in the Aberdeen Vein quality of life measurements and the pain scores. After 3 years, 18 patients were willing to undergo a duplex follow-up examination. The occlusion rate after 3 years was 77.8. There were no device-related complications after this period.

CONCLUSIONS

The study demonstrated a good safety and performance profile without any major adverse events. The primary end point of vein occlusion and obliteration was met.

Treatments to prevent primary venous ulceration after deep venous thrombosis

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess whether compression stockings or other interventions reduce the incidence of venous ulceration after acute deep venous thrombosis.

METHODS

We searched PubMed and Embase for randomized controlled trials (RCTs), restricted to English, Spanish, and Hebrew, related to post-thrombotic syndrome and venous ulceration in participants with confirmed deep venous thrombosis. Our primary statistical assessment was the Peto odds ratio (OR).

RESULTS

Our search generated 23 RCTs meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria, summing 6162 patients and 146 ulcerative events. Trials were categorized into compression, low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH), procedural thrombolysis, medical thrombolysis, or miscellaneous. Six compression trials were identified, of which five were included in meta-analysis. Compression compared with placebo did not reduce venous ulceration (OR, 0.915; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.475-1.765), and long-term compression was not superior to short-term compression (OR, 1.36; 95% CI, 0.014-1.31). Four LMWH trials were identified but were not subjected to meta-analysis because of intertrial heterogeneity. One trial, comparing extended tinzaparin with warfarin, demonstrated eight ulcers in the warfarin group and one ulcer in the LMWH group (relative risk, 0.125; P < .05). Three procedural thrombolysis trials were pooled into meta-analysis; fewer ulcerative events occurred in procedural thrombolysis patients, but the effect was not significant (OR, 0.677; 95% CI, 0.338-1.358). Eight medical thrombolysis trials were identified. Pooled analysis of five trials demonstrated a protective effect on ulceration in streptokinase patients vs standard heparinization (OR, 0.125; 95% CI, 0.021-0.739). However, these trials were of poor-quality study design, had small sample size, and had poor overall outcomes. Miscellaneous studies included a trial of hidrosmina, a vasoactive flavonoid, and a trial comparing 6-month warfarin treatment with 6 weeks; neither trial had significant outcomes. Intertrial heterogeneity was not adequately assessed with the I² value as venous ulceration is a rare event; the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation evidence for most trials was very low, with the exception of procedural thrombolysis trials, for which it was low.

CONCLUSIONS

We found insufficient evidence to assess whether compression or other interventions protect against venous ulceration. To develop guidelines for treatment decisions related to prevention of venous ulceration, high-powered RCTs investigating venous leg ulcers as a primary outcome are required.

Challenges in advancing the laser fiber through the great saphenous vein during endovenous ablation and strategies to overcome them

Objectives

To determine the incidence of possible obstacles and patients’ characteristics when performing endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) and suggestions to improve the ability to overcome them.

Method

A prospective study with 215 limbs treated with EVLT. A sequence of maneuvers was performed to move the fiber forward when difficulty was found and if unsuccessful another entry site was punctured.

Results

In 29 of 215 (13.48%) limbs, resistance was encountered while navigating the fiber; 16 (55.17%) solved with lower limb extension; 13 (44.82%) needed ultrasound guided maneuvers; five (17.24%) needed a saline flush and in three patients (10.34%) another entry site was necessary. In 214 of 215 cases (99.53%), ablation was accomplished and no complications were observed.

Conclusions

Both obstruction and higher patients' BMI are the main obstacles during endovenous laser ablation and usually needs additional maneuvers to accomplish the procedure in our study and the use of tricks to overcome these issues is feasible.

Five-year follow-up of a randomized clinical trial comparing open surgery, foam sclerotherapy and endovenous laser ablation for great saphenous varicose veins

BACKGROUND

New treatment methods have challenged open surgery as a treatment for great saphenous vein (GSV) insufficiency, the most common being ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy (UGFS) and endovenous laser ablation (EVLA). This study evaluated the long-term results of surgery, EVLA and UGFS in the treatment of GSV reflux.

METHODS

Patients with symptomatic GSV reflux were randomized to undergo either open surgery, EVLA or UGFS. The main outcome measure was the occlusion rate of the GSV at 5 years after operation.

RESULTS

The study included 196 patients treated during 2008-2010; of these, 166 (84·7 per cent) participated in the 5-year follow-up. At 5 years, the GSV occlusion rate was 96 (95 per cent c.i. 91 to 100) per cent in the open surgery group, 89 (82 to 98) per cent after EVLA and 51 (38 to 64) per cent after UGFS (P < 0·001). For patients who had received no additional treatment during follow-up, the occlusion rates were 96 per cent (46 of 48), 89 per cent (51 of 57) and 41 per cent (16 of 39) respectively. UGFS without further GSV treatment was successful in only 16 of 59 patients (27 per cent) at 5 years.

CONCLUSION

UGFS has significantly inferior occlusion rates compared with open surgery or EVLA, and results in additional treatments.

Report of the Society for Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum on the July 20, 2016 meeting of the Medicare Evidence Development and Coverage Advisory Committee panel on lower extremity chronic venous disease

On July 20, 2016, a Medicare Evidence Development and Coverage Advisory Committee panel assessed the benefits and risks of currently used lower extremity chronic venous disease (CVD) treatments and their effects on health outcome of the American adult population. The main purpose of the meeting was to advise the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on coverage determination for interventions used for treatment of CVD. A systematic review of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality was presented, followed by lectures of invited experts and a public hearing of representatives of professional societies and the industry. After discussing critical issues, the panel voted for key questions. This report summarizes the presented evidence to support recommendations of the Society for Vascular Surgery/American Venous Forum coalition and the presentations on selected discussion topics. These included important venous disease evidence gaps that have not been sufficiently addressed, venous disease treatment disparities and how they may affect the health outcomes of Medicare beneficiaries, and mechanisms that might be supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to improve the evidence base to optimize the care of patients with lower extremity CVD.

Influência da termoablação com baixa e alta densidade de energia na junção safeno-femoral, utilizando laser endovenoso 1470 nm

Contexto

Faz-se importante o conhecimento técnico dos ajustes de potência e de densidade de energia linear endovenosa (linear endovenous energy density, LEED) adequados para atingir o objetivo final da termoablação endovenosa (endovenous laser ablation, EVLA).

Objetivos

Avaliar a influência de diferentes LEEDs em termos de patência e presença de refluxo, bem como determinar a evolução clínica.

Métodos

Foram incluídas 60 veias safenas magnas (VSM). Os pacientes foram randomizados em dois grupos: EVLA com baixa potência (7 W e LEED de 20-40 J/cm) e com alta potência (15 W e LEED de 80-100 J/cm). O acompanhamento com eco-Doppler e escore de severidade clínica venoso (VCSS) foi realizado nos intervalos de 3-5 dias, 30 dias, 180 dias e 1 ano após o procedimento.

Resultados

Dezoito pacientes (29 membros) tratados com 7W de potência e 13 pacientes (23 membros) com 15 W completaram o estudo. Não houve diferença significativa considerando idade, tempo de cirurgia e o uso de analgésicos, lateralidade, gênero e presença de comorbidades. O LEED médio foi de 33,54 J/cm no grupo de 7 W e de 88,66 J/cm no de 15 W. Ambos apresentaram melhora no VCSS, redução significativa dos diâmetros da JSF e ausência de diferença significativa quanto ao aumento do comprimento do coto da VSM e de refluxo após o tratamento.

Conclusões

A utilização de maior densidade de energia mostrou-se mais efetiva em relação à estabilização do comprimento do coto da VSM e do refluxo em 6 meses. Fazem-se necessários estudos com um período de acompanhamento maior para fundamentar essa hipótese.

Lack of symmetry in the major lower limb veins

BACKGROUND

Contemporary texts frequently present the venous system of the lower limb as a prime example of bilateral symmetry. However, overt bilateral asymmetry may be noted. This study was designed to examine and to quantify the level of symmetry in the lower extremity veins.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study evaluated major anatomic differences between right and left lower extremity veins in adult patients. Two hundred patients presenting with signs and symptoms of chronic venous disease (CVD; class 2-6) and venous reflux on duplex ultrasound were examined. A second group of 25 healthy volunteers without reflux or obstruction were used as controls. Those with conditions that could potentially alter vasculature, including vascular malformation, lower extremity trauma, and previously documented surgery for venous disease or bypass operations, were excluded. Only overt changes in the main superficial veins (great saphenous and small saphenous veins) and deep veins (femoral, popliteal, peroneal, and tibial veins) of the lower extremities were examined for symmetry. The level of small saphenous vein termination and thigh extension veins were also included. Location and extent of hypoplasia or aplasia and venous duplication or triplication were noted for all venous segments.

RESULTS

Of the 100 patients (200 limbs) with CVD class 2-3 (age, 49 years; range, 21-78 years), the extent of asymmetry in the superficial system, deep system, and combined was 84%, 86%, and 100%, respectively. Similarly, of the 100 patients (200 limbs) with CVD class 4-6 (age, 56 years; range, 28-84 years), the level of asymmetry in the superficial system, deep system, and combined was 83%, 84%, and 100%, respectively. Fifty (100 limbs) healthy volunteers (age, 46 years; range, 18-74 years) also presented similarly elevated levels of asymmetry compared with both cohorts of differing CVD class severity (superficial, 78%; deep, 84%; both, 100%). The most common reason for asymmetry in the great saphenous vein was hypoplasia or aplasia, whereas duplication was rare. In the small saphenous vein, the level of termination, thigh extension, and hypoplasia were the more frequent reasons. In the deep veins, duplication of the femoral and popliteal veins at different locations and extents was the most common finding for asymmetry. These findings remained consistent for all subgroups of patients and healthy controls.

CONCLUSIONS

A complete lack of symmetry is consistently seen in CVD patients and healthy subjects. Asymmetry in the veins of the lower extremities appears to be the norm. This is true despite examination of only overt changes and exclusion of multiple veins from the comparison.

Padrões de refluxo nas veias safenas em homens com insuficiência venosa crônica

Contexto

A insuficiência venosa crônica (IVCr) é frequente e predomina nas mulheres, mas ainda há poucas informações sobre o refluxo nas veias safenas na população masculina.

Objetivos

Identificar os diferentes padrões de refluxo nas veias safenas magnas (VSMs) e parvas (VSPs) em homens, correlacionando esses dados com a apresentação clínica conforme a classificação Clínica, Etiológica, Anatômica e Fisiopatológica (CEAP).

Métodos

Foram avaliados 369 membros inferiores de 207 homens pela ultrassonografia vascular (UV) com diagnóstico clínico de IVCr primária. As variáveis analisadas foram a classificação CEAP, o padrão de refluxo nas VSMs e VSPs e a correlação entre os dois.

Resultados

Nos 369 membros avaliados, 72,9% das VSMs apresentaram refluxo com predominância do padrão segmentar (33,8%). Nas VSPs, 16% dos membros inferiores analisados apresentaram refluxo, sendo o mais frequente o padrão distal (33,9%). Dos membros classificados como C4, C5 e C6, 100% apresentaram refluxo na VSM com predominância do refluxo proximal (25,64%), e 38,46% apresentaram refluxo na VSP com equivalência entre os padrões distal e proximal (33,3%). Refluxo na junção safeno-femoral (JSF) foi detectado em 7,1% dos membros nas classes C0 e C1, 35,6% nas classes C2 e C3, e 64,1% nas classes C4 a C6.

Conclusões

O padrão de refluxo segmentar é predominante na VSM, e o padrão de refluxo distal é predominante na VSP. A ocorrência de refluxo na JSF é maior em pacientes com IVCr mais avançada.

Utility of Adjunctive Digital Subtraction Venography for the Treatment of Saphenous Vein Insufficiency

PURPOSE

To report the use of adjunctive venography for the treatment of superficial venous reflux.

METHODS

Two hundred consecutive patients (mean age 60.9 years, range 33-86; 128 women) with chronic venous disease underwent saphenous or perforator vein ablation in 268 limbs (305 venous trunks) guided by adjunctive venography and fluoroscopy in addition to ultrasound between October 2010 and May 2016. Intraprocedural venograms were independently evaluated by 2 vascular specialists to identify the presence of venous anomalies and the need for fluoroscopy-guided maneuvers to successfully complete venous ablation. Intraprocedural venography results were compared with preoperative venous duplex scan reports to ascertain if the duplex study could be of value in identifying preoperatively any anatomical variants that may pose a technical challenge to the operator.

RESULTS

In this cohort, 542 venograms (2.0/limb) were performed with a mean duration of 4.9±9.1 minutes (range 1-48). Two thirds of patients (132, 66%) had anomalies or abnormalities within the target vein; more than a third (88, 44%) required an endovascular maneuver to successfully complete the ablation and 17% (34) of cases were impossible to complete without adjunctive fluoroscopic guidance. Per-patient comparison of intraprocedural venography with preoperative venous duplex reports identified 21 (11%) patients with abnormalities detected on ultrasound (23 anomalies) compared with 123 (64%) on venography (193 anomalies). This gave ultrasound a 17.1% sensitivity, 100% specificity and positive predictive value, and 40.7% negative predictive value.

CONCLUSION

Venography is a valuable addition to ultrasound to facilitate complete ablation of insufficient saphenous veins in selected patients with complex anatomy.

Reappraisal of the Utility of the Tilt-table in the Investigation of Venous Disease†

OBJECTIVES

Without gravity opposing drainage, most venous diseases would not exist. Therefore, manoeuvres that assess venous function should include gravity. The aim was to "dose" gravity in subjects using static positions and dynamic angulations on a tilt-table and to assess its effects with air plethysmography (APG) and duplex ultrasound over the femoral vein.

METHODS

Three groups (providing n = 11 legs each) were compared. (a) A control group, without clinical or duplex evidence of venous disease. (b) An obstruction group, with past iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis. (3) A reflux group, with primary varicose veins. A manually operated tilt-table ranging from -70° to 40° in the Trendelenburg position provided rapid tilting (<3 s). The changes in calf volume at -70° (almost standing), -45° (reclining), and 40° (legs-up) were recorded with APG, as well as the rate and duration of the changes. The minor diameter of the femoral vein was recorded at the three tilt positions.

RESULTS

The results were expressed as median (interquartile range). The total working venous volume (mL) in the reflux group was significantly increased: 202 (180-240) mL versus the controls at 138 (119-198) mL, p = .008, and versus the legs with obstruction at 117 (80-154) mL, p < .0005. The venous drainage index (VDI) in mL/second in the obstructed group was significantly reduced: 7 (6-9.6) mL/second, versus the controls at 17.4 (13.9-27.2) mL/second, p < .0005, and versus the legs with varicose veins at 28.1 (25.4-34.4) mL/second, p < .0005. The venous filling index (VFI) in mL/second in the reflux group was significantly increased: 8.1 (4.2-10) mL/second versus the controls at 1.8 (1-2.1) mL/second, p < .0005. The VDI cut-off point discriminating obstruction was ≤10.8 mL/second and the VFI discriminating reflux was ≥ 2.9 mL/second. The femoral vein diameter was reduced significantly with increasing leg elevation.

CONCLUSIONS

Manoeuvres using APG on a tilt-table have the potential to quantify the contributions of global obstruction and reflux (mL/second) in patients with venous disease.

Can the Main Trunk of Greater Saphenous Vein be Spared in Patients with Varicose Veins?

Greater saphenous vein (GSV) is the first-choice venous conduit used for bypass grafting. However, GSV is more often varicosed than any other vein. The purpose of this study was to identify how often the main trunk of GSV could be spared during varicose vein oper ations. Two hundred fifty limbs from 187 consecutive patients with GSV reflux on contin uous-wave Doppler were subsequently examined with color flow duplex imaging. The main trunk of GSV was divided into saphenofemoral junction (SFJ), thigh, knee, and below-the-knee (BK) segments. Reflux and varicosities at all levels were noted. Limbs with previous venous surgery involving GSV were excluded from the study.

Reflux throughout the length of GSV was the most common pattern (n=122, 49%). The prevalence of reflux at the SFJ was 78% (n=196); thigh segment, 84% (n=210); knee, 92% (n=229); and BK segment, 74% (n=186). Of the segments with reflux, vari cosities were found in 71% at the thigh, 77% at the knee, and 28% (P<0.0001) at the BK segment. Despite the presence of reflux, the entire length of GSV was free of varicosities in 46 (18%) limbs. Because the main trunk of GSV most often lies deeper than its tribu- taries, in 79 (32%) limbs it was not possible to clinically detect the presence of GSV vari cosities. Those varicosities that were clinically evident most often involved the tributaries of GSV (n=232, 93%) that pierce the superficial fascia and come closer to the skin. One hundred thirty-two incompetent perforating veins were found in 71 limbs, of which 27 were connected with the thigh segment, 5 with the knee segment, and the remaining 100 with the tributaries of the BK segment. No perforating vein was found to be connected with the BK GSV.

The main GSV trunk at the BK level frequently had reflux, but it was rarely varicosed. Because this segment of GSV is not connected to perforating veins, and owing to its intimate anatomic relationship with the saphenous nerve, it may be spared if not varicosed. In about a fifth of the occasions, the entire length of GSV was free of vari cosities, and at least in high-risk patients for arterial disease this vein need not be excised.

Patterns of Venous Reflux and Obstruction in Patients With Skin Damage Due to Chronic Venous Disease

Identified were characteristics of individuals with skin damage related to chronic venous disease. Patients with chronic venous disease (n = 164) were evaluated with duplex ultrasound imaging and were placed in classes 4, 5, and 6 according to the CEAP classification. Their findings were compared with 100 class 2 controls. The prevalence of deep venous thrombosis was higher in the study group (23.7%) versus controls (5.1%; P < .0001), as was the prevalence of deep, perforator, and combined patterns of disease ( P < .0001, P < .0007, and P < .0001). The mean duration of disease in controls 2 was shorter compared with the study group ( P = .0019). The prevalence of reflux and obstruction within the study group was higher than in controls ( P = .0021). Skin changes accurately reflect severity of chronic venous disease. Superficial and perforator vein reflux is the major cause of disease.