Fate of varicose veins after great saphenous vein stripping alone

T Nishibe1, Y Kondo, A Dardik

  • 1Department of Surgery, Eniwa Midorino Clinic, Eniwa, Japan. toshiyanishibe@yahoo.co.jp

Insights

Great saphenous vein (GSV) stripping alone shows significant spontaneous varicose vein regression for over three years. This suggests delaying or avoiding further varicectomy in many patients.

Area of Science:

  • Vascular Surgery
  • Phlebology
  • Clinical Outcomes Research

Background:

  • Varicose veins are a common vascular condition.
  • Great saphenous vein (GSV) stripping is a standard treatment.
  • Long-term spontaneous regression of varicose veins post-GSV stripping is not well-documented.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To prospectively evaluate clinical outcomes after GSV stripping alone.
  • To determine if spontaneous varicose vein regression continues beyond three years.
  • To assess the necessity of further treatment like varicectomy.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study of 39 patients (55 limbs) undergoing GSV stripping.
  • Follow-up assessment for clinical sequelae and spontaneous regression.
  • Data collection on recurrence rates for GSV stripping alone versus combined with sclerotherapy.

Main Results:

  • 91% of limbs showed spontaneous varicose vein resolution within 4-6 weeks.
  • Only 5% of limbs required subsequent sclerotherapy.
  • After >3 years, 89% completed follow-up; recurrence was 9% for GSV stripping alone.

Conclusions:

  • Spontaneous varicose vein resolution can persist for over three years post-GSV stripping.
  • Varicectomy may be deferred or avoided in numerous cases.
  • GSV stripping alone demonstrates favorable long-term outcomes with low recurrence.
Abstract

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