[Approach to venous diseases in the elderly]

Area of Science:

• Vascular Medicine
• Geriatrics
• Public Health

Background:

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) incidence and severity escalate with age.
• The impact of these conditions on the elderly is often underestimated, with patients frequently presenting at advanced stages.
• CVI significantly impairs mobility, necessitates assistance, increases fall risk, and diminishes quality of life in older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of CVI and DVT in the elderly population.
• To highlight the risk factors, clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and treatment strategies for CVI in older patients.
• To emphasize the importance of individualized treatment based on clinical status and patient expectations.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on CVI and DVT in elderly patients.
• Analysis of risk factors including age, immobilization, and obesity.
• Discussion of diagnostic tools like color Doppler ultrasonography and the CEAP classification.
• Overview of therapeutic interventions, including conservative and interventional approaches.

Main Results:

• Key risk factors for CVI in the elderly are age, immobilization, and obesity.
• Common symptoms include pain, edema, skin changes, and leg wounds.
• Color Doppler ultrasonography and CEAP classification are crucial for diagnosis.
• Effective management involves patient education, lifestyle modifications, compression therapy, and interventional procedures when appropriate.

Conclusions:

• Early diagnosis and consistent follow-up are vital to prevent advanced CVI complications in the elderly.
• Treatment decisions must prioritize the patient's physical condition and expectations over chronological age.
• Minimally invasive techniques like endovenous ablation and foam sclerotherapy offer safe and effective options for older adults.
• Optimizing CVI management significantly improves the quality of life for elderly patients.