Vericose Veins Flashcards
Definition of Vericose Veins
Long, tortuous, dilated veins of the superficial venous system
Epidemiplogy of Vericose Veins
Extremly common
2.6% of women, 2% men
more common with increasing age and post-pregnancy
Causes of Vericose Veins
Valves prevent blood from flowing from deep to superficial veins
If these valves become incompetent then there is venous hypertension and dilation of superficial veins
Causes of Valve incompetence
Idiopathic
Congenital
Obstruction/ destruction due to DVT
Arteriovenous malformation
Constipation
Overactive muslces (cyclists)
Risk factors of Vericose Veins
Pregnancy
Obesity
Prolonged standing
Fx
The pill
Symptoms of Vericose Veins
“My legs are ugly”
Pain
Cramps
Tingling
Heaviness
Restless legs
Itching
Signs of Vericose Veins
Oedema
Venous eczema
Ulcers
Haemosidirin
Haemorrhage
Phlebitis
Atrohpie blanche - white scaring at previous healed ulcer
Lipodermatosclerosis - Skin hardness
Differentials o Vericose Veins
Cellulitis
Superficial phlebitis
DVT
Conservative treatment of Vericose Veins
Education
prevent prolonged standing
Support stockings
Lose weight
regular walks (aid venous returns)
Medical treatment of Vericose Veins
Injection sclerotherapy
surgical treatment of Vericose Veins
Radiofrequency ablation
Endovenous laser ablation
Saphenofemoral ligations
Multiple avulsions
Stripping from groin to upper calf
very effective long term
Complications of Vericose Veins
Haemorrhage
Thrombophlebitis
Venous ulcers
