Stripping operation with preservation of the calf saphenous veins for primary varicose veins: hemodynamic evaluation

Purpose. To study early changes in venous hemodynamics in stripping operation with preservation of the calf saphenous veins.

Patients and methods. From October 1999 to December 2000, 110 extremities of 73 patients were treated for primary varicose veins. Based on preoperative ascending venography, 40 extremities underwent the groin-to-knee stripping of the GSV, 20 underwent the proximal division of the LSV, and 50 received combinations of both surgeries. To evaluate venous hemodynamic changes, air plethysmography was performed before operation and 7–14 days after operation.

Results. The venous volume, venous filling index and residual volume fraction were improved after surgery, but the ejection fraction did not change. The overall incidence of nerve injury was 4.5% (five limbs).

Conclusions. In stripping operations, the preservation of the calf saphenous veins, which is shown to be advantageous in reducing saphenous or sural nerve injuries, does not adversely affect early venous hemodynamic improvement.