Association between SYNTAX II Score and late saphenous vein graft failure in patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery is a well-established treatment modality for patients with multivessel coronary artery disease (CAD). Syntax II Score has been established as novel scoring system with better prediction of postprocedural outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of SYNTAX II Score for predicting late saphenous vein graft (SVG) failure in patients undergoing isolated CABG. METHODS: The records of 1,875 consecutive patients who underwent isolated CABG with at least one SVG were investigated. Those who underwent coronary angiography and SVGs angiography at least 1 year after the CABG were included. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of SVG failure. For each group, predictors of late SVG failure and subsequent clinical outcomes were analyzed. RESULTS: According to this study, the presence of hypertension, higher rates of repeat revascularization, and higher SYNTAX II Scores were found to be independent predictors of late SVG failure. In addition, the prognostic value of SYNTAX II Score was found to be significantly higher than anatomical SYNTAX Score in terms of predicting late SVG failure and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular event. CONCLUSIONS: There was a strong association between SYNTAX II Score and late SVG failure in patients undergoing isolated CABG.

Resultados do tratamento do refluxo de veias safenas com endolaser 1. 470 nm e correlação com o grau de insuficiência venosa / Results of venous reflux treatment with 1, 470 nm endolaser and correlation with degree of venous insufficiency

Resumo Contexto Pacientes com doença venosa crônica avançada são mais propensos a exigir outros procedimentos para recidiva de veias varicosas. Ainda não está estabelecido se a gravidade da insuficiência venosa é um fator que influencia a taxa de oclusão de veias safenas tratadas por endolaser. Objetivos Analisar a taxa de oclusão dos segmentos venosos tratados com endolaser e correlacionar com o Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) e a classificação Clínica-Etiológica-Anatômica-Patológica (CEAP) dos pacientes. Métodos Análise retrospectiva de coorte de pacientes operados com endolaser 1.470 nm entre novembro/2012 a março/2020. Foram realizadas estatística descritiva e curva de sobrevida de Kaplan-Meier com regressão de Cox para grupos de VCSS e CEAP. Resultados Foram analisados 170 pacientes e 180 segmentos venosos; a idade média foi de 44,3 ± 9,2, sendo a maioria do sexo feminino (71%). A densidade de energia média utilizada na veia safena magna foi 49,2 ± 8,3 J/cm. As principais complicações foram dor no trajeto da safena (12,2%) e parestesias após 6 meses (17,2%). Não houve diferença na taxa de oclusão venosa entre grupos com VCSS ≤ 7 e VCSS > 7 (p = 0,067). O grupo de pacientes com CEAP agrupada C4-C5-C6 teve taxa de oclusão menor em relação ao grupo C2-C3 [hazard ratio (HR) = 3,22; intervalo de confiança (IC) 1,85, 5,61; p = 0,001]. Conclusões As taxas de oclusão de segmentos venosos tratados com endolaser foram menores na presença de classificações CEAP avançadas. Nesses pacientes, provavelmente deve-se despender mais energia para o tratamento eficaz das safenas.

Abstract Background Patients with advanced chronic venous disease are more likely to need additional procedures for relapsed varicose veins. It has not yet been established whether severity of venous insufficiency is a factor that influences the occlusion rate of saphenous veins treated with endolasers. Objectives To analyze occlusion rate of venous segments treated with endolaser and correlate it with patients' Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) and Clinical-Etiological-Anatomical-Pathological (CEAP) classification. Methods Retrospective analysis of a cohort of patients operated using a 1,470 nm endolaser from November 2012 to March 2020. Descriptive statistics were calculated and Kaplan-Meier survival curves were plotted with Cox regression for groups stratified by VCSS and CEAP. Results A total of 180 venous segments were analyzed in 170 patients. Mean age was 44.3 ± 9.2 and the majority of patients were female (71%). Mean energy density used in the great saphenous vein was 49.2 ± 8.3 J/cm. The most common complications were pain along the course of the saphenous vein (12.2%) and paresthesias at 6 months (17.2%). There was no difference in venous occlusion rate between groups with VCSS ≤ 7 and VCSS > 7 (p = 0.067). A group of patients classified as CEAP classes C4, C5, or C6 had a lower occlusion rate than a group at classes C2 or C3 (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.22; confidence interval [CI] 1.85, 5.61; p = 0.001]. Conclusions The occlusion rates of venous segments treated with endolaser were lower in patients with higher CEAP classes. It is probably necessary to use more energy in these patients to achieve effective treatment of saphenous veins.

Ablación por radiofrecuencia versus crosectomía safenofemoral más oclusión endovascular distal en pacientes con insuficiencia de la vena safena mayor / Radiofrequency ablation versus sapheno-femoral crosectomy plus distal

Introducción: Actualmente se prefieren procedimientos mínimamente invasivos como las técnicas endovasculares para el tratamiento de la insuficiencia de vena safena mayor que pueden ser por ablación térmica, química o mecánica. Éstos tienen la ventaja de ser ambulatorios, presentar menos complicaciones postoperatorias, una rápida incorporación laboral y mejores resultados estéticos. El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar los resultados del tratamiento con radiofrecuencia versus crosectomía safenofemoral más oclusión endovascular distal. Material y Métodos: Estudio descriptivo prospectivo que incluyó a todos los pacientes con diagnóstico de insuficiencia de la vena safena mayor de enero 2017 a octubre 2019. La elección de la técnica a utilizar se hizo al azar. Resultados: El 77% correspondió al género femenino, con edad media 49 años, el estadío C:2 de la clasificación clíica CEAP fue la más frecuente (57%) y el shunt tipo 3 (63%). La ablación por radiofrecuencia se realizó con mayor frecuencia (83%). El dolor y parestesias (fueron las complicaciones más frecuentes en ambos grupos sin diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p = 0.1470). No hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativo entre las dos técnicas quirúrgicas realizadas en resultado estético (p = 0.4456), el retorno de actividades cotidianas (p = 0.992) ni las laborales (p = 0.901). Conclusiones: Tanto la ablación por radiofrecuencia de la vena safena mayor como la crosectomía safenofemoral más oclusión endovascular distal se consideran dos métodos seguros y efectivos para tratar insuficiencia de vena safena mayor; ya que los resultados finales fueron similares para ambas técnicas quirúrgicas.

Introduction: Minimally invasive endovascular procedures like thermal, chemical or mechanical ablation are currently preferred for the treatment of the great saphenous vein insufficiency, because have the advantage of being outpatient, with minimal postoperative complications, a faster incorporation to work and better aesthetic results. This study persuit to evaluate the results of radiofrequency treatment versus sapheno-femoral crosectomy plus distal endovascular occlusion. Methods: The study included all the patients with a diagnosis of great saphenous vein insufficiency from January 2017 to October 2019. The technic was chosen randomly. Results: 77% of patients was female , with a mean age of 49 , the C2 stage of the CEAP classification is present in 57% and the type 3 shunt in 63%. Radiofrequency ablation was performed in 83% of the cases. Pain and paresthesia were the most frequent complications, without statistically signification between both technics (p = 0.1470). The aesthetic result, the return to daily activities (p = 0.992) and to work (p = 0.901) had not statistically significant differences between the two surgical techniques. Conclusions: Both, radiofrequency ablation of the greater saphenous vein and sapheno-femoral crosectomy plus distal endovascular occlusion are considered safe and effective methods to treat great saphenous vein insufficiency because the final results were similar for both surgical techniques.

Avaliação do coto residual após 12 meses de safenectomia sem ligadura alta da junção safeno-femoral / Assessment of residual stumps 12 months after saphenectomy without high ligation of the saphenofemoral junction

Resumo Contexto Atualmente, recomenda-se como primeira opção cirúrgica de varizes a termoablação da veia safena; porém, esse procedimento não é realizado pelo Sistema Único de Saúde do Brasil. Como forma de incluir melhores resultados, técnicas cirúrgicas esforçam-se para mimetizar as novas tecnologias sem seus custos, sendo a principal delas a realização da safenectomia convencional sem ligadura das suas tributárias. Objetivos Avaliar a evolução do coto residual após safenectomia sem ligadura alta da junção safeno-femoral associada à invaginação do mesmo, assim como avaliar o comportamento das veias acessórias anterior/posterior. Métodos Estudo prospectivo e intervencionista. Foram operados 52 membros pela técnica de safenectomia sem ligadura alta da junção safeno-femoral seguida da invaginação do coto residual. Os pacientes foram avaliados no pré e pós-operatório (7 dias, 3, 6 e 12 meses) através de ultrassonografia vascular com Doppler para análise de diâmetro e extensão do coto residual, diâmetro e refluxo na veia acessória anterior/posterior e presença de neovascularização. A análise estatística foi realizada por média, desvio padrão, mediana, valor mínimo e máximo, frequências e percentuais, teste de Fisher e bimodal. Resultados Evidenciou-se um efeito significativo do tempo sobre a medida de diâmetro (p < 0,001) e da extensão (p = 0,002) do coto residual, porém o mesmo não foi observado quanto ao diâmetro (p = 0,355) ou refluxo na veia acessória anterior. Foi identificada neovascularização em 7 (14,3%) membros. Conclusões Após a utilização da técnica descrita, o coto residual apresentou retração e diminuição do seu diâmetro no período de 1 ano e não transmitiu refluxo para veia acessória. As taxas de neovascularização foram condizentes com a literatura.

Abstract Background Currently, the first-choice option recommended for varicose vein surgery is thermal ablation of the saphenous vein, but this procedure is not available on the Brazilian National Health Service (SUS - Sistema Único de Saúde). In an effort to improve results, surgical techniques have been developed to mimic the new technologies, without their high costs. The most prominent such method involves conventional saphenectomy, without ligation of tributaries. Objectives To assess progression of the residual stump after saphenectomy without high ligation of the saphenofemoral junction but with stump invagination and to assess the behavior of anterior/posterior accessory veins. Methods Prospective intervention study. A total of 52 limbs were treated with saphenectomy without high ligation of the saphenofemoral junction followed by invagination of the residual stump. Patients were assessed preoperatively and at 7 days, and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively using vascular ultrasonography with Doppler to analyze the length of the residual stump, the diameters of the residual stump and the anterior/posterior accessory vein, reflux in the accessory vein, and presence of neovascularization. Statistical analysis involved calculation of means, standard deviations, medians, minimum and maximum values, frequencies, and percentages, and Fisher's test and the binomial test. Results There was evidence of a significant time effect on residual stump diameter (p < 0.001) and length (p = 0.002), but the same was not observed with relation to diameter (p = 0.355) or reflux of the anterior accessory vein. Neovascularization was found in 7 (14.3%) limbs. Conclusions After use of the technique described, the residual stump retracted, its diameter reduced over the 1 year postoperative period, and it did not transfer reflux to the accessory vein. Neovascularization rates were in line with the literature.

Covid-19 - endothelial axis and coronary artery bypass graft patency: a target for therapeutic intervention?

Abstract It has been reported that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection induces endothelial inflammation, therefore facilitating the progression of endothelial and vascular dysfunction in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) involves mainly the use of the saphenous vein (SV) and internal mammary artery as graft material in the stenosed coronary arteries. Unfortunately, graft patency of the SV is low due to endothelial dysfunction and inflammation. We propose that SARS-CoV-2 might cause vascular inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and thrombosis in coronary artery bypass graft vessels by binding angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor. Therefore, in this Special Article, we consider the potential influence of COVID-19 on the patency rates of coronary artery bypass graft vessels, mainly with reference to the SV. Moreover, we discuss the technique of SV graft harvesting and the therapeutic potential of focusing on endothelial dysfunction, vascular inflammation, and thrombosis for protecting coronary artery bypass grafts in COVID-19 infected CABG patients.

Numerical study on the mechanical coupling of external vascular stent and vein graft in coronary artery bypass surgery / 生物医学工程学杂志

External support stent is a potential means for restricting the deformation and reducing wall stress of the vein graft, thereby improving the long-term patency of the graft in coronary artery bypass surgery. However, there still lacks a theoretical reference for choosing the size of stent based on the diameter of graft. Taking the VEST (venous external support) stent currently used in the clinical practice as the object of study, we constructed three models of VEST stents with different diameters and coupled them respectively to a model of the great saphenous vein graft, and numerically simulated the expansion-contraction process of the vein graft under the constraint of the stents to quantitatively evaluate the influence of stent size on the radial deformation and wall stress of the vein graft. The results showed that while the stent with a small diameter had a high restrictive effect in comparison with larger stents, it led to more severe concentration of wall stress and sharper changes in radial deformation along the axis of the graft, which may have adverse influence on the graft. In order to solve the aforementioned problems, we ameliorated the design of the stent by means of changing the cross-sectional shape of the thick and thin alloy wires from circle into rectangle and square, respectively, while keeping the cross-sectional areas of alloy wires and stent topology unchanged. Further numerical simulations demonstrated that the ameliorated stent evidently reduced the degrees of wall stress concentration and abrupt changes in radial deformation, which may help improve the biomechanical environment of the graft while maintaining the restrictive role of the stent.

Effect of using triclosan-impregnated polyglactin suture to prevent infection of saphenectomy wounds in cabg: a prospective, double-blind, randomized clinical trial

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of triclosan-coated suture for the reduction of infection in saphenectomy wounds of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Methods: A total of 508 patients who underwent saphenectomy in CABG surgery were included in a prospective, randomized, double-blind trial from February/2011 to June/2014. Patients were randomized into the triclosan-coated suture group (n= 251) and the conventional non-antibiotic suture group (n=257). Demographic (gender and age), clinical (body mass index, diabetes, and use of analgesics), and intraoperative (cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamp times) variables and those related to the saphenectomy wound (pain, dehiscence, erythema, infection, necrosis, and hyperthermia) were measured and analyzed. Results: Of the 508 patients who underwent saphenectomy, 69.9% were males and 40.2% were diabetic. Thirty-three (6.5%) patients presented infection: 13 (5.3%) with triclosan and 20 (7.9%) with conventional suture (P=0.281). Among diabetic patients (n=204), triclosan suture was used in 45.1% with four cases of infection; conventional suture was used in 54.9% of them, with 11 cases of infection. Most patients (94.3%) underwent on-pump CABG. Wound pain was observed in 9.9% of patients with triclosan-coated suture and in 17.9% with conventional suture (P=0.011). Wound hyperthermia was found in 1.6% of patients with triclosan-coated suture and in 5.4% of those with conventional suture (P=0.028). Conclusion: Triclosan-coated suture shows lower infection rate in saphenectomy of patients undergoing CABG, although the differences were not statistically significant. Pain and wound hyperthermia were less frequent in patients with triclosan-coated sutures compared with conventional sutures.

Cenário ambulatorial de pacientes com sítio cirúrgico infectado após intervenção cardíaca / Escenario ambulatorial de pacientes con sitio cirugía infectado después intervención cardíaca / Ambulatory setting of patients with surgical site infections after a cardiac intervention

Resumo OBJETIVO Verificar o perfil clínico-cirúrgico e os resultados de pacientes acompanhados em um ambulatório de ferida operatória após cirurgia cardíaca. MÉTODOS Coorte histórica com pacientes submetidos à cirurgia cardíaca e acompanhados por um ano em um ambulatório de feridas de um hospital especializado em cardiologia. Foram analisados os micro-organismos predominantes nas infecções, os produtos utilizados nos curativos, tempo de acompanhamento e o tipo de terapêutica instituída nos curativos. RESULTADOS Entre os 150 pacientes, predominaram sexagenários (61,7 ± 11,4 anos), hipertensos (75%), diabéticos (44,7%). Evidenciou-se 12 pacientes com mediastinite (8%) e 44 com infecção de sítio cirúrgico (29,3%). Utilizou-se para realização dos curativos os ácidos graxos (80%) e alginato de cálcio (19%). O tempo de acompanhamento foi de 35 ±71 dias. CONCLUSÃO Pacientes sexagenários, hipertensos, diabéticos e revascularizados constituíram a população acompanhada no ambulatório de feridas. As taxas de ISC e mediastinite encontradas foram aceitáveis e semelhantes às da literatura.

Resumen OBJETIVO Verificar el perfil clínico-quirúrgico y los resultados de pacientes acompañados en un ambulatorio de heridas operatorias después de cirugía cardiaca. MÉTODO Cohorte histórica con pacientes sometidos a la cirugía cardiaca y acompañados por un año en el ambulatorio de heridas de un hospital especializado en cardiología. Fueron analizados los microorganismos predominantes en las infecciones, los productos utilizados en las curaciones, el tiempo de seguimiento, o el tipo de tratamiento utilizado en las curaciones. RESULTADOS Entre los 150 pacientes predominaron el sexo masculino (58%), sexagenarios (61,7 ± 11,4 años), hipertensos (75%), diabéticos (44.7%). Se evidenciaron 12 pacientes con mediastinitis (8%) y 44 con infección en el sitio quirúrgico (29.3%). Se utilizó en las curaciones fueron los ácidos grasos (80%) y el alginato de calcio (19%). El tiempo medio de seguimiento fue de 35 ± 71 días. CONCLUSIÓN Los pacientes sexagenarios, hipertensos, diabéticos y revascularizados constituyeron la población acompañada en el ambulatorio de heridas. Las tasas de ISC y mediastinitis encontradas fueron aceptables y similares a las de la literatura.

Abstract OBJECTIVE Verifying the clinical-surgical profile and the results of patients monitored in an surgical wound ambulatory after a cardiac surgeries. METHODS This is a historical cohort research with patients submitted to cardiac surgery and monitored for a year in an outpatient surgical wound clinic from a hospital specialized in cardiology. The study analyzed the prevalent microorganisms in infections, the products used in the dressings, the time of follow-up, and the type of therapy established in the dressings. RESULTS Among the 150 patients, most were sexagenarians (61.7 ± 11.4 years), hypertensive patients (75%), and diabetic (44.7%). There were 12 patients with mediastinitis (8%) and 44 with surgical site infection (29.3%). Fatty acids (80%) and calcium alginate (19%) were used for wound healing. The mean follow-up time was 35 ± 71 days. CONCLUSION Sexagenary, hypertensive, diabetic and revascularized patients constituted the population monitored in the wounds outpatient clinic. The SSI and mediastinitis rates found were acceptable and similar to those in literature.

Prospective randomized trial comparing radiofrequency ablation and complete saphenous vein stripping in patients with mild to moderate chronic venous disease with a 3-year follow-up / Ensaio clínico randomizado prospectivo comparando a ablação por radiofrequência e a retirada completa de veia safena em pacientes com doença venosa crônica leve à moderada com seguimento de 3 anos

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare the use of the radiofrequency thermoablation of the saphenous vein with the ligation technique, and complete removal of the saphenous vein, from the saphenofemoral junction to the ankle. Methods: A total of 49 patients with chronic venous disease in the Comprehensive Classification System for Chronic Venous Disorders (CEAP) classes 2 to 4 for clinical signs, etiology, anatomic distribution and pathophysiology, were assessed at baseline, after 4 weeks, and after 1 year. The parameters assessed were complications, period of absence from activities, Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) and quality of life scores according to Aberdeen Varicose Veins Questionnaire (AVVQ). They were re-examined 1 and 3 years after treatment to evaluate recurrence rates. Results: The success rate per limb (p=0.540), VCSS (p=0.636), AVVQ (p=0.163), and clinical complications were similar in the two treatment groups. Nevertheless, the radiofrequency thermoablation group had significant shorter length of hospital stay (0.69±0.47) and absence from activities (8.62±4.53), p<000.1. Conclusion: Patients submitted to radiofrequency thermoablation had an occlusion rate, clinical recurrence and improvement in quality of life comparable to removal of the saphenous vein. However, these patients spent less time hospitalized and away from their daily activities during recovering.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar o uso da termoablação por radiofrequência da veia safena com a técnica de ligação e retirada completa da veia safena da junção safeno-femoral ao tornozelo. Métodos: Foram avaliados 49 pacientes com doença venosa crônica nas categorias 2 a 4 (Comprehensive Classification System for Chronic Venous Disorders − CEAP) para classificação clínica, etiológica, anatômica e fisiopatológica, no início do estudo, 4 semanas e 1 ano após o procedimento. Os parâmetros analisados foram complicações, período de ausência de atividades,(Venous Clinical Severity) Score revisado (R-VCSS) e escore de qualidade de vida de acordo com o Aberdeen Varicose Veins Questionnaire(AVVQ). Os pacientes foram reexaminados 1 e 3 anos após o tratamento, para avaliar as taxas de recorrência. Resultados: As taxas de sucesso por membro (p=0,540), VCSS (p=0,636), AVVQ (p=0,163) e complicações clínicas foram semelhantes nos dois grupos. No entanto, o grupo termoablação por radiofrequência teve períodos de internação significativamente mais curtos (0,69±0,47) e ausência de atividades (8,62±4,53), com p<000,1. Conclusão: Pacientes submetidos à termoablação por radiofrequência apresentaram taxa de oclusão, recidiva clínica e melhora da qualidade de vida comparáveis à retirada completa da veia safena. No entanto, esses pacientes passaram menos tempo internados e ausentes de suas atividades diárias durante a recuperação.

CHIVA to spare the small and great saphenous veins after wrong-site surgery on a normal saphenous vein: a case report / CHIVA para preservar as safenas magna e parva após cirurgia ressecando por erro a safena magna normal: relato de caso

CHIVA (Cure Conservatrice et Hemodynamique de l'Insufficience Veineuse en Ambulatoire) is a type of operation for varicose veins that avoids destroying the saphenous vein and collaterals. We report a case of CHIVA treatment of two saphenous veins to spare these veins. The patient previously had a normal great saphenous vein stripped in error in a wrong-site surgery, while two saphenous veins that did have reflux were not operated. The patient was symptomatic and we performed a CHIVA operation on the left great and right small saphenous veins. The postoperative period was uneventful and both aesthetic and clinical results were satisfactory. This case illustrates that saphenous-sparing procedures can play an important role in treatment of chronic venous insufficiency. Additionally, most safe surgery protocols do not adequately cover varicose veins operations. Routine use of duplex scanning by the surgical team could prevent problems related to the operation site

Cure conservatrice et hemodynamique de l'insufficience veineuse en ambulatoire (CHIVA) é um tipo de cirurgia de varizes que evita a destruição da veia safena e colaterais. Este relato apresenta uma paciente que foi submetida a CHIVA em duas safenas para poupá-las. A paciente teve uma safena magna normal retirada em uma cirurgia no sítio cirúrgico errado, as safenas com refluxo foram mantidas, e uma normal foi ressecada. A paciente estava sintomática e foi realizada CHIVA na safena parva direita e na magna esquerda. O pós-operatório transcorreu bem com resultado clínico e estético satisfatório. Esse caso mostra que cirurgias que poupam a safena têm papel importante no tratamento da insuficiência venosa crônica. Além disso, os protocolos de cirurgia segura não cobrem adequadamente as cirurgias de varizes devido a duas safenas possíveis e por serem frequentemente cirurgias bilaterais. A realização de eco-Doppler rotineiramente pela equipe cirúrgica pode prevenir problemas relacionados ao sítio operatório

Evidence for varicose vein treatment: an overview of systematic reviews

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Varicose veins affect nearly 30% of the world's population. This condition is a social problem and needs interventions to improve quality of life and reduce risks. Recently, new and less invasive methods for varicose vein treatment have emerged. There is a need to define the best treatment options and to reduce the risks and costs. Since there are cosmetic implications, treatments for which effectiveness remains unproven present risks to consumers and higher costs for stakeholders. These risks and costs justify conducting an overview of systematic reviews to summarize the evidence. DESIGN AND SETTING: Overview of systematic reviews within the Discipline of Evidence-Based Health, at Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). METHODS: Systematic reviews on clinical or surgical treatments for varicose veins were included, with no restrictions on language or publication date. RESULTS: 51 reviews fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Outcomes and comparators were described, and a narrative review was conducted. Overall, there was no evidence that compression stockings should be recommended for patients as the initial treatment or after surgical interventions. There was low to moderate evidence that minimally invasive therapies (endovenous laser therapy, radiofrequency ablation or foam sclerotherapy) are as safe and effective as conventional surgery (ligation and stripping). Among these systematic reviews, only 18 were judged to present high quality. CONCLUSIONS: There was evidence of low to moderate quality that minimally invasive treatments, including foam sclerotherapy, laser and radiofrequency therapy are comparable to conventional surgery, regarding effectiveness and safety for treatment of varicose veins.

Clinical, ultrasonographic and histological findings in varicose vein surgery

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE This study aims to correlate the demographic data, different clinical degrees of chronic venous insufficiency (CEAP), ultrasound findings of saphenofemoral junction (SFJ) reflux, and anatomopathological findings of the proximal segment of the great saphenous vein (GSV) extracted from patients with primary chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) submitted to stripping of the great saphenous vein for the treatment of lower limb varicose. METHOD This is a prospective study of 84 patients (110 limbs) who were submitted to the stripping of the great saphenous vein for the treatment of varicose veins of the lower limbs, who were evaluated for CEAP clinical classification, the presence of reflux at the SFJ with Doppler ultrasonography, and histopathological changes. We study the relationship between the histopathological findings of the proximal GSV withdrawal of patients with CVI with a normal GSV control group from cadavers. RESULTS The mean age of the patients was higher in the advanced CEAPS categories when comparing C2 (46,1 years) with C4 (55,7 years) and C5-6(66 years), as well as C3 patients (50,6 years) with C5-6 patients. The normal GSV wall thickness (mean 839,7 micrometers) was significantly lower than in the saphenous varicose vein (mean 1609,7 micrometers). The correlational analysis of reflux in SFJ with clinical classification or histopathological finding did not show statistically significant findings. CONCLUSIONS The greater the age, the greater the clinical severity of the patients. The GSV wall is thicker in patients with lower limb varicose veins, but those histopathological changes are not correlated with the disease's clinical severity or reflux in the SFJ on a Doppler ultrasound.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Este estudo tem como objetivo correlacionar os dados demográficos, os diferentes graus clínicos da insuficiência venosa crônica (Ceap), com achados ultrassonográficos de refluxo da junção safenofemoral (JSF) e os achados anatomopatológicos do segmento proximal da veia safena magna (VSM) extraído de pacientes com insuficiência venosa crônica (IVC) primária submetidos à safenectomia magna para correção de varizes dos membros inferiores. MÉTODO Estudo prospectivo de 84 pacientes e 110 membros submetidos à safenectomia magna para o tratamento de varizes de membros inferiores, correlacionando a sua classificação clínica Ceap, presença de refluxo na JSF ao ultrassom Doppler e alterações histopatológicas. Comparamos ainda os achados histopatológicos da VSM proximal retirada dos pacientes com IVC com grupo controle de VSM normal retirada de cadáveres. RESULTADOS Média de idade dos pacientes foi maior nos Ceaps avançados quando comparado Ceap C2 (46,1 anos) com C4 (55,7 anos) e C5-6 (66 anos), e pacientes C3 (50,6 anos) com C5-6. A espessura da parede da VSM normal (média de 839,7 micrômetros) foi significativamente menor do que das VSM varicosas (média de 1.609,7 micrômetros). As análises de correlação da presença do refluxo em JSF com a classificação clínica ou achado histopatológico não demostraram ser estatisticamente significativas. CONCLUSÕES Quanto maior a idade, mais avançada é a classificação clínica da IVC dos pacientes. A espessura da parede da crossa da VSM é maior nos pacientes com IVC e essas alterações não se correlacionam com a classificação clínica da doença ou com a presença de refluxo na JSF ao ultrassom Doppler.

Resultados en el corto y mediano plazo del tratamiento con radiofrecuencia de la insuficiencia venosa superficial / Short to midterm results after endovenous radiofrequency obliteration for treatment of saphenous reflux

Resumen Objetivo: Evaluar los resultados iniciales y en el mediano plazo del tratamiento con radiofrecuencia (RF) de la Insuficiencia Venosa Superficial (IVS) de las extremidades inferiores. Material y Método: Serie de pacientes operados en el Hospital Dr. Eduardo Pereira, Valparaíso por IV S con tratamiento de los troncos safenos insuficientes mediante ablación RF. El diagnóstico fue clínico y mediante eco-doppler color. Se efectuó un cuestionario de calidad de vida en el pre y posoperatorio. Resultados: 77 pacientes (57 mujeres), edad promedio de 58,3 años (23-83) y un seguimiento promedio de 13,6 meses. Los pacientes consultaron por várices primarias sintomáticas de una extremidad inferior (49) o ambas (28) con 105 extremidades, clasificación CEAP C2:84, C3:1, C4:9, C5:4, y C6:7. No hubo extremidades C0 o C1. Se agregó extirpación de tributarias varicosas superficiales mayores de 3 mm de diámetro con gancho en todas las extremidades. Además, en algunos pacientes se realizó ligadura directa de venas perforantes, injerto de úlceras, o resección cutáneo-aponeurótica e injerto diferido como tratamientos complementarios. Se realizó controles con eco-doppler color observando una correcta ablación ecográfica de la vena safena en un 99% a un mes y 94% a los 6 meses de seguimiento. Hubo ausencia de trombosis venosa profunda en todos los pacientes. El cuestionario de calidad de vida reveló en una mayoría, el alivio de los síntomas y satisfacción en relación a la cirugía. Conclusión: La ablación con radiofrecuencia de los troncos safenos insuficientes es un método efectivo en el corto y mediano plazo, que puede ser acompañado de otros procedimientos para tratar la IVS de las extremidades inferiores.

Objective: To evaluate short and midterm results after endovenous radiofrequency obliteration for treatment of saphenous reflux. Material and Method: Review and updated follow-up of a clinical series of patients after endovenous radiofrequency obliteration of insufficient saphenous trunks at the Hospital Dr. Eduardo Pereira, Valparaíso. Diagnosis was based on clinical parameters and color doppler ultrasonography. A preoperative and postoperative quality of life questionnaire was executed. Results: 77 patients (57 female) with an average age 58.3 years (23-83) and a mean follow-up time of 13.6 months. Patients consulted for symptomatic primary varicose veins of one lower extremity (49) or both (28) with 105 extremities. According to CEAP classification there were C2:84, C3:1, C4:9, C5:4 and C6:7. There were no C0 or C1 extremities. Superficial tributaries of more than 3 mm diameter were removed using Muller's method in all extremities. Furthermore, in some patients procedures were performed as complementary treatments: perforating veins ligation, skin grafting of ulcers or cutaneous-aponeurotic resection and deferred skin graft. A color doppler ultrasonography was performed one month later observing proper saphenous vein obliteration in 99% of cases and 94% at 6-months follow-up. There were no signs of deep vein thrombosis in all patients. The quality of life questionnaire revealed symptomatic relief and surgical satisfaction in the majority of patients. Conclusion: Endovascular radiofrequency obliteration for treatment of saphenous reflux is an effective method for the short and mid terms and can be done alongside other procedure.

Escleroterapia de safena associada a enxerto de pele no tratamento de úlceras venosas / Sclerotheray of saphenous vein combined with skin grafting for treatment of venous ulcers

Contexto: Úlceras são a resultante final de varizes associadas a refluxo de veias safenas. Objetivo: Demonstrar a possibilidade de associar dois procedimentos, a escleroterapia com espuma de veias safenas e o enxerto de pele parcial, para o tratamento de pacientes com úlceras venosas relacionadas a refluxo de veias safenas. Métodos: Foram tratados 20 membros em 20 pacientes, todos com ulcerações relacionadas a refluxo de veias safenas. Realizamos o enxerto de pele expandida, seguido da escleroterapia ecoguiada com espuma de polidocanol nas veias associadas às úlceras, através de punção ou dissecção da veia. Resultados: Em todos os casos, houve melhora dos sintomas relacionados à úlcera e cicatrização da lesão. Em 11 casos, obtivemos a viabilidade do enxerto de pele por completo; em quatro casos, houve cicatrização de cerca de 50% da lesão; e nos cinco casos restantes, houve cicatrização de aproximadamente 75% da lesão. A primeira ultrassonografia de controle revelou esclerose completa dos vasos tratados em 19 dos 20 casos e esclerose parcial sem refluxo detectável em um caso. Na segunda ultrassonografia, realizada após 45 dias, observamos esclerose completa de 15 casos; em cinco casos, houve esclerose parcial, dos quais três sem refluxo detectável e dois com refluxo em segmentos isolados associados a varizes. A complicação mais frequente foi a pigmentação nos trajetos venosos, observada em 13 pacientes. Um caso apresentou trombose assintomática de veias musculares da perna. Conclusão: Essa associação de procedimentos consiste em uma opção válida com potencial para promover um tratamento mais breve e de menor custo

Background: Ulcers are the end result of varicose veins associated with reflux in saphenous veins. Objective: To demonstrate the possibility of combining two procedures, foam sclerotherapy of saphenous veins and skin grafting, to treat patients with venous ulcers related to reflux in saphenous vein. Methods: 20 limbs were treated in 20 patients. All patients had ulcers related to saphenous vein reflux. We performed the grafting with expanded skin, followed by administration of ultrasound guided polidocanol foam sclerotherapy in veins associated with ulcers, accessed by puncture or dissection of the vein. Results: In all cases there was improvement of ulcer-related symptoms and healing of the lesion. In 11 cases we achieved full skin grafting viability. In four cases there was healing of about 50% of the lesion and in the other five cases approximately 75% of the lesion healed. The first control ultrasonographic examination revealed complete sclerosis of the vessels treated in 19 of 20 cases, with partial sclerosis in one case, but no detectable reflux. The second ultrasonographic examination performed at 45 days showed complete sclerosis in 15 cases. In five cases there was partial sclerosis, without detectable reflux in three and with reflux in isolated segments associated with varicose veins in two. The most common complication was pigmentation along vein paths, observed in 13 patients. In one case there was asymptomatic thrombosis of muscle veins of the leg. Conclusion: This combination of procedures is a valid option, with the potential to provide quicker and less expensive treatment

Tratamento da recidiva da crossa da veia safena magna por acesso proximal / Treatment of recurrent varicosity of the great saphenous vein arch via proximal access

Resumo A maior causa de recidiva das varizes dos membros inferiores é a inadequada dissecção da crossa da safena interna, com a ligadura não rente da junção safenofemoral. O acesso direto ao tecido cicatricial de uma cirurgia prévia deve ser evitado ao máximo pelo elevado risco de sangramento e de lesões linfáticas. O acesso proximal ao tecido cicatricial, abordando inicialmente a veia femoral comum acima da junção safenofemoral, seguindo-a em direção caudal até a crossa da safena, mostrou-se uma técnica eficiente e relativamente simples quando comparada às abordagens medial, lateral e direta.

Abstract The most common cause of recurrence of varicose veins in the lower limbs is inadequate dissection of the internal saphenous arch, with ligature that is not flush to the saphenofemoral junction. Direct access to the scar tissue of previous surgery should be avoided to the maximum because of the high risk of bleeding and of lymphatic injuries. Access proximal to the scar tissue, initially at the common femoral vein, above the saphenofemoral junction, continuing caudally to the saphenous arch, proved to be an effective and relatively simple technique when compared to medial, lateral and direct approaches.

Associação entre sintomas, veias varicosas e refluxo na veia safena magna ao eco-Doppler / Associations between symptoms and varicose veins and great saphenous vein reflux seen on Doppler ultrasonography

Resumo Contexto A doença venosa crônica requer avaliação clínica, quantificação dos efeitos hemodinâmicos e definição da distribuição anatômica para decisão diagnóstica e tratamento. Métodos Estudo prospectivo realizado em 2015 com amostra de 1.384 pacientes (2.669 membros) com idade entre 17 e 85 anos, sendo 1.227 do sexo feminino. Nas respostas do questionário aplicado, os sintomas pesquisados eram dor, cansaço, sensação de peso, queimação, câimbras e formigamento. Para a formação dos grupos, foi considerado o número de membros, distribuídos em relação ao gênero, ao índice de massa corporal e à idade. Após a definição grupos e a realização do eco-Doppler para estudo da veia safena magna (VSM), os pacientes foram distribuídos em três grupos (I: sintomas presentes e varizes ausentes, II: sintomas ausentes e varizes presentes e III: sintomas presentes e varizes presentes). A análise estatística utilizou o teste qui-quadrado ou exato de Fisher para verificar a homogeneidade entre os grupos. Em caso de associação com significância de 5%, foi calculada a razão de chances. Resultados Para ambos os gêneros, foi observada chance de insuficiência da VSM 11,2 vezes maior no grupo III. Por sua vez, os casos de obesidade mórbida ocorreram 9,1 vezes mais no mesmo grupo. Além disso, pacientes na faixa etária entre 30 e 50 anos desse grupo apresentaram chance de insuficiência da VSM 43,1 vezes maior. Conclusões A insuficiência da VSM foi significantemente mais frequente no grupo III, tanto globalmente como considerando apenas os casos de obesidade mórbida e a faixa etária mais elevada.

Abstract Background Chronic venous disease demands clinical assessment, quantification of hemodynamic effects, and definition of anatomic distribution before diagnostic and treatment decisions can be made. Methods This is a prospective study conducted in 2015 with a sample of 1,384 patients (2,669 limbs) aged from 17 to 85 years, 1,227 of whom were female. The most common symptoms reported in response to the questionnaire were pain, tiredness, feelings of heaviness, burning, cramps, and tingling. Subsets were formed on the basis of number of limbs distributed by sex, body mass index, and age. After definition of subsets, Doppler ultrasonography was used to conduct examinations of the great saphenous vein (GSV) and patients were distributed into three clinical groups (I: symptoms present and varicose veins absent, II: symptoms absent and varicose veins present and III: symptoms present and varicose veins present). Statistical analysis employed the chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test to test for homogeneity between groups. When associations significant to 5% were detected, odds ratios were calculated. Results For both sexes, the chance of GSV insufficiency was 11.2 times greater in group III. Among cases with morbid obesity, the chance was 9.1 times greater in the same group. Additionally, patients in this group with ages ranging from 30 to 50 years exhibited a 43.1 times greater chance of GSV insufficiency. Conclusions Insufficiency of the GSV was significantly more frequent in group III, both overall and when considering only cases with morbid obesity, or cases in older age groups.

Randomized trial of radiofrequency ablation versus conventional surgery for superficial venous insufficiency: if you don't tell, they won't know

OBJECTIVES: This study compared radiofrequency ablation versus conventional surgery in patients who had not undergone previous treatment for bilateral great saphenous vein insufficiency, with each patient serving as his own control. METHOD: This was a randomized controlled trial that included 18 patients and was carried out between November 2013 and May 2015. Each of the lower limbs of each patient was randomly assigned to undergo either radiofrequency ablation or conventional surgery. Clinical features (hyperpigmentation, hematoma, aesthetics, pain, skin burn, nerve injury, and thrombophlebitis) were evaluated at one week, one month, and six months postoperatively. Hemodynamic assessments (presence of resection or occlusion of the great saphenous vein and recurrent reflux in the sapheno-femoral junction and in the great saphenous vein) were performed at one month, six months, and 12 months postoperatively. The independent observer (a physician not involved in the original operation), patient, and duplex ultrasonographer were not made aware of the treatment done in each case. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02588911. RESULTS: Among the clinical variables analyzed, only the aesthetic evaluation by the physicians was significant, with radiofrequency ablation being considered better than conventional surgery (average, 0.91 points higher: standard deviation: 0.31; 95% confidence interval: -1.51, -0.30; p=0.003). However, in our study, we observed primary success rates of 80% for radiofrequency ablation and 100% for conventional surgery. CONCLUSIONS: If the physician is not required to inform the patient as to the technique being performed, the patient will not be able to identify the technique based on the signs and symptoms. Our study revealed that both techniques led to high levels of patient satisfaction, but our results favor the choice of conventional surgery over radiofrequency ablation, as patients who underwent conventional surgery had better hemodynamic assessments.

Development of an ex vivo model of endovenous laser ablation of the great saphenous vein in a pilot study

ABSTRACT PURPOSE: To develop an ex vivo model for the analysis of macroscopic, histological and immunohistochemical changes after experimental endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) of the great saphenous vein (GSV). METHODS: We describe a model produced with glass tubes and introducer sheaths to mimic the physiological conditions of EVLA procedures, such as tumescence and blood flow. A pilot study was conducted to evaluate an ex vivo procedure of EVLA of an incompetent GSV segment using a 1470-nm radial fiber diode laser (7 W power) and an automatic pull-back device. The vein segment was analyzed macroscopically and by hematoxylin & eosin staining, elastic fiber histochemistry, Gomori's trichrome staining, and alpha-smooth muscle actin immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: No perforations were observed macroscopically. No muscle cell adhesion was observed in the central part of the ablated vein, showing tissue disruption. There was low labeling for elastic fibers, disruption of muscle fibers, and a reduced expression of the specific marker for this cell type. CONCLUSION: This ex vivo endovenous laser ablation model is a low cost alternative to in vivo experiments, providing standardized experimental conditions.