Abstract
Objectives: Each surgeon is concerned about the potential for periprocedural injury. While severe complications during varicose vein surgery are uncommon, they can have significant consequences, including prolonged disability or even mortality. This paper presents a review of the literature on ischaemic complications following varicose vein procedures.
Method: Review of literature data available in online database (PubMed, Medline, 1970–2021).
Results: A total of 33 cases of severe ischaemia were identified following the procedure of great saphenous vein ligation and stripping, with a minimum of 100 cases observed following the sclerotherapy. These were primarily attributable to peripheral embolization or thrombosis, and 16 cases of brain ischaemia were documented following sclerotherapy. No mortality was reported, and 22 amputations were documented in the open surgery cohort, compared to no mortality deaths and 56 amputations in the sclerotherapy group.
Conclusion: In order to prevent ischaemic injury during a lower limb varicose vein procedure, it is essential that the surgeon has provided a comprehensive preoperative examination, has a detailed understanding of the anatomy, has gained significant experience in performing the procedure, and has developed the requisite surgical skills. In the event that an injury does occur, it is of the utmost importance that the repair procedure is carried out by an experienced vascular surgeon, as the time is crucial in such cases.
doi: 10.48095/ccrvch2024489