Vol 14, No 4 (2008)
Other materials agreed with the Editors
Published online: 2008-12-19
Historic milestones in the management of lower limb varicose veins
Marek Durakiewicz
Acta Angiologica 2008;14(4):159-172.
Vol 14, No 4 (2008)
Miscellanea
Published online: 2008-12-19
Abstract
Lower limb varices have been known and described for more than 3500 years. Through the ages, numerous
modalities have been used in the management of this condition. Many of these methods evolved and,
after some modifications, remain in use. Surgical techniques of major importance in the management of
varices of the greater saphenous vein include crosscutting of the venous ostium (crossectomy) and partial
or complete removal of the venous trunk (stripping). Conservative management consists of drug therapy
and compression therapy. Another major achievement was the development of sclerotherapy using injections
of chemical substances, which was introduced after the invention of the syringe. Surgical procedures
involving the greater saphenous vein are still associated with a high recurrence rate. Currently available
methods of vein obliteration, such as radiofrequency ablation, laser therapy, and foam sclerotherapy, are
expected to improve long-term outcomes, reduce local tissue trauma, and result in an improved cosmetic
effect. Discussions regarding the optimal approach to the management of lower limb varicose veins should
also include knowledge about the historical aspects of the treatment of this condition, especially with the
centennial anniversary of the introduction of the Babcock procedure that remains in common use.
Abstract
Lower limb varices have been known and described for more than 3500 years. Through the ages, numerous
modalities have been used in the management of this condition. Many of these methods evolved and,
after some modifications, remain in use. Surgical techniques of major importance in the management of
varices of the greater saphenous vein include crosscutting of the venous ostium (crossectomy) and partial
or complete removal of the venous trunk (stripping). Conservative management consists of drug therapy
and compression therapy. Another major achievement was the development of sclerotherapy using injections
of chemical substances, which was introduced after the invention of the syringe. Surgical procedures
involving the greater saphenous vein are still associated with a high recurrence rate. Currently available
methods of vein obliteration, such as radiofrequency ablation, laser therapy, and foam sclerotherapy, are
expected to improve long-term outcomes, reduce local tissue trauma, and result in an improved cosmetic
effect. Discussions regarding the optimal approach to the management of lower limb varicose veins should
also include knowledge about the historical aspects of the treatment of this condition, especially with the
centennial anniversary of the introduction of the Babcock procedure that remains in common use.
Keywords
history of vascular surgery; compression therapy; crossectomy; stripping; sclerotherapy
Title
Historic milestones in the management of lower limb varicose veins
Journal
Acta Angiologica
Issue
Vol 14, No 4 (2008)
Article type
Other materials agreed with the Editors
Pages
159-172
Published online
2008-12-19
Page views
1226
Article views/downloads
3719
Bibliographic record
Acta Angiologica 2008;14(4):159-172.
Keywords
history of vascular surgery
compression therapy
crossectomy
stripping
sclerotherapy
Authors
Marek Durakiewicz
About this article