[Sclerotherapy of the external saphenous vein under endoscopic control]

The contribution of investigative venous endoscopy is essential. This out-patient endoscopic technique visualises the venous endothelium, valve systems and collaterals. For example, this technique enabled J.F. Van Cleef and C. Ribreau to draw up an anatomo-physiological classification of the parietal valves of the long saphenous vein on the basis of video films. From a therapeutic standpoint, venous endoscopy has yet to show its value. We chose the short saphenous since treatment of incontinence of this vessel is difficult and controversial: difficult because of anatomical variations, notably its ending and because of its course in the popliteal fossa; controversial because of its relations with the gemellary veins. Treatment of the short saphenous, whether medical or surgical, is not always entirely satisfactory. In case of surgical treatment, together with J.P. Hugentobler, we had already noted the value of three-dimensional localisation by transcutaneous illumination of the precise course of a vein using the cold light of the distal tip of the endoscope. "Venous ligatures" which can be placed intravenously are not currently available. In case of medical treatment by sclerosing injections of the short saphenous junction under endoscopic control, the product used can be injected with great topographical precision and strictly intravenously. Large amounts of product can easily be injected. However, this technique has at least three disadvantages: it is expensive; there is no parallel between endovenous lesions immediately visible by endoscopy and the mid-term results of sclerosing injections; the relations between the gemellary veins and the short saphenous can be identified precisely only by prior ultrasonography. As a result, sclerosing injections under endoscopic control remain within the domain of research.