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Published on: February 10, 2023
Phlebosclerosis in lower extremities veins
N Labropoulos1, L Tzogias, R D Malgor
1Division of Vascular Surgery, Stony Brook University Medical Center, Stony Brook, NY, USA.
Phlebology
|December 29, 2012
Summary
Phlebosclerosis, a condition affecting leg veins, was found to be uncommon in outpatients. Advanced age and chronic venous disease increase its risk, particularly in the small saphenous vein (SSV).
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Phlebosclerosis, characterized by venous wall changes, is not well-understood in outpatient populations.
- Understanding its prevalence and risk factors is crucial for vascular health assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence, distribution, and extent of phlebosclerosis in lower extremities of outpatients referred to a vascular clinic.
- To identify factors associated with phlebosclerosis development.
Main Methods:
- Prospective cohort study of 740 outpatients (1000 limbs assessed) using duplex ultrasonography.
- Phlebosclerosis diagnosed by increased venous wall echogenicity, thickness, or calcification.
- Exclusion of patients with lower extremity trauma or surgery; comparison with two control groups.
Main Results:
- Phlebosclerosis was diagnosed in 2.1% of limbs, significantly higher than in control groups (P < 0.019).
- Patients with phlebosclerosis were older (mean 57 years) than the overall cohort (mean 49 years; P < 0.0001).
- Phlebosclerosis showed a higher prevalence in the small saphenous vein (SSV) and affected all superficial veins.
Conclusions:
- Phlebosclerosis prevalence in lower extremities is low, with no significant sex differences.
- Age and chronic venous disease are key factors in phlebosclerosis development.
- Phlebosclerosis can occur independently of thrombosis or reflux, with a notable presence in the SSV.
Keywords:
phlebosclerosis; varicose veins; chronic venous diseasevenosclerosisvenous fibrosisvenous hypertrophyMore Related Videos
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