Extraluminal valvuloplasty of the great saphenous vein: surgical technique and long-term results

Abstract

The extraluminal valvuloplasty of the sapheno-femoral junction is a vein-sparing operative technique which can be used in selected patients with incompetence of the greater saphenous vein. The operation can be performed safely and cosmetically favourable through a small groin incision. The follow-up of a group of 43 legs after a mean interval of 8.5 years demonstrated good results in terms of patient satisfaction, relief of symptoms and regression of previously dilated veins. Treatment for recurrent varicose veins was necessary in 10 cases (18,5 %).

Judging from our experience, extraluminal valvuloplasty seems to be a vein-sparing alternative to stripping in selected patients.

Key words

greater saphenous vein - insufficiency - extraluminal valvuloplasty - vein-sparing treatment

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