A PROSPECTIVE STUDY ON CLINICO-PATHOLOGY OF VARICOSE VEINS AND ITS' SURGICAL MANAGEMENT

Abstract

Background: Varicose veins primarily considered to be a cosmetic problem have been widely mistaken to be medically unimportant and given low priority for treatment. The associated pain, swelling, open ulceration and other morbidities increase cost of its management. The debilitation adds on to the time lost from work and wages. Aim: To study the aetiogenesis, pathology, presentation, complications, and management of varicose veins in the study populations. Methods: The current study followed a prospective observational study design among 60 patients visiting Meenakshi Medical College Hospital and Research Institute with symptoms and signs of varicose veins and clinically diagnosed as having varicose veins. Various presentations and complications and treatments were noted and finally followed up for minimum of 6 months. Results and Conclusion: It is found that varicose veins and their associated symptoms and complications constitute the most common chronic vascular disorders leading to surgical treatment. The incidence is on the rise. It is more common in middle- aged group and in males. Patients presented with spectrum of symptoms and signs, dilated and tortuous veins being more common presentations. Long saphenous system is the most common venous system affected. Ankle (lower perforator being the most common incompetent perforators. The outcome of cases of primary varicose vein depends on a thorough and complete clinical examination and duplex scan by an experienced radiologist. Operative line of treatment is a primary procedure in the management of varicose veins of lower Stripping of LSV up to knee and non-stripping of SSV is associated with less morbidity. Accurate assessment reduces the risk of recurrent varicose veins. There must be ample support from the Government so that even the poor will be benefited from the newer modality of treatment of varicose veins.