Superficial vein stripping in the treatment of varicosis concurrent with combination of superficial and deep venous reflux

Objective To examine outcomes of superficial vein stripping for vein varicosis caused by combination of superficial and deep venous reflux and the effect on deep vein reflux. Methods From January 2004 to December 2006, twenty patients (22 lower extremities) with combined superficial and deep venous reflux were enrolled for evaluation, patients with superficial venous reflux alone worked as controls.All patients underwent superficial vein stripping and followed up for 2 years. Venous clinic severity score (VCSS) and color duplex ultrasound test were used to evaluate the change of clinic symptoms and valve reflux of deep veins. Results Preoperative VCSS of superficial and deep vein reflux group and superficial vein reflux group was 7.1 ± 2. 9 and 6. 6 ± 2. 0 respectively (P = 0. 44). At two years after operation the VCSS was 2. 3 ± 1.2 and 1.8 ± 0. 8 respectively without significant statistic differences, whereas comparing postoperative VCSS with individual preoperative parameters there was a significant decrease (P <0. 01). In combined superficial and deep vein group, deep venous reflux reduced in 7 limbs, progressed in 4 limbs, no change in 12 limbs. While in superficial reflux alone group, deep venous reflux occurred in 4 limbs.Conclusions Superficial vein stripping effectively improves symptoms of great saphenous vein varicosis of lower extremity caused by combination of superficial and deep vein reflux without a significant effect on the stares of deep vein reflux. Key words: Venous insufficiency;  Surgical procedures,operative;  Varicose vein