[Congenital absence of vein valves of the lower extremities]

Sixteen patients with congenital absence of venous valves in the deep veins of 18 lower limbs are reported. The disease limbs characterized by venous hypertension is frequently seen in teen-agers. Venographically, no valve is to be found in the deep venous system. Conservative treatment may be tried in those without pigmentation and ulcer formation in the goiter area. However, valvular reconstructive operation of the deep veins is the effective method of treatment.