[Indications for surgical treatment of varicose veins]

Surgical treatment of varicose veins is always indicated when changes in the vessel walls are combined with insufficient flow of the superficial venous system. Other indications can arise as a result of prospective appraisal of the findings and cosmetic esthetic concerns. There are a number of surgical methods for the treatment of varicose veins, the selection of which depends on the special findings. These methods include crossectomy, stripping of the saphenous veins, phlebectomy and venous incision. A combination of several methods can even be used, especially when there are certain anatomical and pathological facts. Before a decision on the operative method can be made, many details have to be taken into consideration, ranging from the diagnostic and prospective appraisal to knowledge of several methods and the technics involved.