[VCT classification (valve, cusp, tributary) and venous endoscopy]

The V.C.T. classification (valve, cusp, tributary) results from a visual interpretation of endoscopic images of acquired valvular lesions in the deep and superficial veins. In 1991, we published a classification of saphenous back flow based in endoscopic views, but the rich French language used is difficult for our foreign colleagues to use. In 1992, S. Hoshino published highly simplified endoscopic results which only distinguish three types of valves, but which have the advantage of allowing quite useful illustrations. We thus propose in 1997 an illustrated and schematic classification. This V.C.T. classification in English is based on our results in 1990, the three types proposed in 1992 by Hoshino, and new images obtained since our former publication. We distinguished five types of valves scored 0 to 4 (type 0 being a normal valve) and four types of cusp scored 0 to 3. In addition, we found it was quite useful to note the number and position of border or wallside supravascular tributary veins. This classification is indispensable for standardized assessment of valve damage and to compare results after valve repair or transposition.