The Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire May be the Preferred Method of Rationing Patients for Varicose Vein Surgery

Abstract

Rationing treatment of varicose veins (VVs) is of importance in countries with a public health service and limited funds. This study examines why and how the Aberdeen varicose vein questionnaire (AVVQ) can be used in achieving rationing. Baseline assessments prior to endovenous treatment included the venous clinical severity score (VCSS), venous filling index (VFI), and the refluxing great saphenous vein (GSV) diameter. Absolute change in the AVVQ defined improvement. There was no significant correlation in AVVQ improvement compared to baseline VCSS, VFI, GSV diameter or when patients were divided into mild and severe disease (C2,3 vs C4-6) or laser ablation versus foam sclerotherapy. However, AVVQ improvement significantly correlated at 3 weeks (n = 84) and 3 months (n = 70) with their baseline values ( r = .5 and r = .585), P < .0005 (Spearman). In conclusion, patients with an initial poor quality of life may benefit most from endovenous treatment, irrespective of other baseline severity assessments.