OUR EXPERIENCE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF VARICOSE VEINS OF THE LOWER LIMB

Varicose veins of the lower limb are a common problem. It is known as the 'penalty against gravity'. The prevalence has been variously reported from as little as 2% to over 20% in population studies. This enormous variation results from the different populations studied, different definitions applied and the different assessment or examination techniques used. Western studies have shown that 20% population suffers from varicose vein and 1% has skin changes proceeding to venous ulceration. In India incidence of varicose veins seems to be far less common because in India most patients present late with complications of varicose veins such as pain, edema, pigmentation and ulceration. We present our experience in the management of varicose veins of the lower limb over 2 years at our institution. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: 1. To study the incidence of varicose veins according to age, sex and occupation. 2. To study spectrum of clinical presentation in varicose veins. 3. To study effect of surgery in healing of varicose ulcers if present. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 50 patients admitted to our institution between 2010 and 2012 were included in this study. 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 rise. It is more common in middle- aged group. The majority of the patients were males in the study. Patients presented with spectrum of symptoms and signs, with pain being more common presenting symptom with or without venous ulcer. The study revealed increased incidence of varicosity in the left lower limb as compared to the right lower limb. Most of the patients presented to the hospital for one of the other complications, not for the cosmetic purpose. Long saphenous system is the most common venous system affected. CONCLUSION: Operative line of treatment is the primary procedure in the management of varicose veins of lower limb and venous ulcer. Saphenofemoral junction ligation with Stripping of LSV with perforators ligation is good approach. There is need of general health education and awareness about varicose veins in society in order to achieve timely treatment, good outcome and decrease morbidity.