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Updated: Jul 23, 2026

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Published on: June 18, 2020
[Role of venous valves in the etiology of essential varices]
F Ortega Santana1, M Anitua Solano, J Guijarro de Pablos
1Instituto de Educación Física de Canarias, Las Palmas de Gran Canarias, España.
Insights
The number of valves or valve atrophy in the great saphenous vein (GSV) does not appear to cause essential varicose veins. This study compared GSV valves in patients with varicose veins and healthy cadavers.
Area of Science:
- Vascular anatomy
- Venous pathophysiology
Context:
- Varicose veins are a common condition affecting the venous system.
- The great saphenous vein (GSV) is frequently involved in varicose vein development.
- The role of valvular system integrity in varicose vein etiology is debated.
Purpose:
- To investigate the relationship between the number and morphology of valves in the GSV and the development of essential varicose veins.
- To compare valvular system characteristics in individuals with and without varicose veins.
Summary:
- A comparative study analyzed the valvular system of the great saphenous vein (GSV) in patients with varicose veins and non-varicose cadavers.
- Results indicated that neither the quantity of valves nor the presence of valve atrophy in the GSV is associated with the onset of essential varicose veins.
Impact:
- This research challenges existing hypotheses regarding the direct link between GSV valve count/atrophy and essential varicose vein formation.
- Findings may influence future research directions in venous insufficiency and the etiology of varicose veins.
Abstract:
A study about the valvular system disposition into the Saphena Interna was effectuated and comparison between patients with a varicose syndrome and non-varicose cadavers was made. From the results, we believe that we are in conditions to conclude that neither the number of valves into the saphena interna nor the development of an atrophy on a valve normally constituted are associated with the apparition of essential varicosities.
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