The value of ultrasound in the assessment of incompetent perforating veins

Abstract

To determine the value of ultrasound in identifying significant perforator disease we assessed 121 perforators in 90 legs of 61 consecutive patients referred for assessment of varicose veins over a 6 month period. Perforators greater than 4mm in diameter demonstrated reflux in approximately 60% of cases, perforators 3-4 mm in diameter demonstrated reflux in approximately 45% and perforators less than 3 mm in diameter demonstrated reflux in approximately 25% of cases. From correlation with previous published data we recommend that all perforators greater than 4 mm in diameter be considered incompetent regardless of whether reflux is demonstrated.