A survey of the current management of varicose veins by members of the Vascular Surgical Society.

Abstract

The assessment and treatment of varicose veins by members of the Vascular Surgical Society of Great Britain and Ireland has been assessed by postal questionnaire. The response rate was 65%, of which 77% were general surgeons with a vascular interest, 21% were vascular surgeons only and 2% were non-vascular. Approximately four new patients with varicose veins are seen per surgeon per week in clinics with a median waiting time to be seen of 12 weeks. A median of three varicose vein operations per surgeon per week are undertaken with 10-15% of surgery being performed for recurrent disease. The commonest indications for surgery are symptomatic (97%) and complicated (98%) varicose veins, although 55% of surgeons also perform surgery for cosmesis. 65% surgeons routinely use hand-held Doppler in the assessment of varicose veins; of the other methods available, Duplex scanning was used as the first line investigation by 83%. Although over 60% of surgeons use sclerotherapy surgery is the preferred option for primary treatment for varicose veins associated with long or short saphenous reflux. 62% surgeons use deep venous thrombosis prophylaxis in patients undergoing varicose veins surgery selectively, and 27% use it routinely.