Korean J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg.  2018 Oct;51(5):338-343. 10.5090/kjtcs.2018.51.5.338.

The Effect of Saphenous Vein Ablation on Combined Segmental Popliteal Vein Reflux

• Hong KP
• Kim DK

• KMID: 2424750
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5090/kjtcs.2018.51.5.338

Abstract

BACKGROUND
This study examined the role of superficial vein surgery in patients with combined superficial venous reflux and segmental popliteal vein reflux.
METHODS
We retrospectively reviewed 42 limbs in 38 patients with combined superficial venous reflux and segmental popliteal vein reflux who underwent saphenous vein ablation between January 2014 and February 2017. Patients underwent outpatient follow-up duplex ultrasonography at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Resolution of deep vein reflux was defined as reversed blood flow in a popliteal segment for less than 1.0 second and a decrease in the reflux time of more than 20% of the preoperative reflux time.
RESULTS
The mean follow-up period was 9 months (range, 3-23 months). Saphenous vein ablations were performed by stripping in 24 limbs and radiofrequency ablation in 18 limbs. Preoperative segmental popliteal vein reflux resolved in 21 of the 42 limbs (50%).
CONCLUSION
This study demonstrated that superficial venous surgery corrected segmental popliteal vein reflux in 50% of limbs with combined superficial venous reflux and segmental popliteal vein reflux. Other prospective studies are necessary to elucidate the etiology of the non-reversible cases.

Keyword

Popliteal vein; Saphenous vein; Duplex ultrasonography; Venous insufficiency

MeSH Terms

Catheter Ablation
Extremities
Follow-Up Studies
Humans
Outpatients
Popliteal Vein*
Prospective Studies
Retrospective Studies
Saphenous Vein*
Ultrasonography
Veins
Venous Insufficiency