Venous insufficiency in male workers with a standing profession. Part 2: diurnal volume changes of the lower legs
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R M Krijnen1, E M de Boer, H J Adèr
1Department of Occupational Dermatology, Free University, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
Background:
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) occurs frequently in the occupational population but is often not recognized.
Objective:
To evaluate leg volume measurements in the detection of CVI.
Interventions:
The lower leg volume was measured in 81 males with CVI and a standing occupation, at the beginning and end of 2 full working days using an optical leg volume meter.
Results:
A volume increase of over 50 ml was found in 60% of the legs. The mean volume change was +2.6% in legs with minor CVI and +3.6% in legs with major CVI. A high volume change was associated with a tired feeling and pain in the legs. In the detection of CVI, the predictive value of volume measurements was 71%, and in combination with a questionnaire 83%.
Conclusion:
A volume increase of the lower legs in the course of the day was common and associated with subjective complaints of the legs. As a predictor of CVI, isolated volume measurements were ineffective because an overlap was present with the distribution of volume changes in healthy workers.