Early changes in the post-phlebitic limb: Their clinical significance

Abstract

The long-term results of treatment of the established post-phlebitic syndrome by compression sclerotherapy or by ligation of incompetent perforating veins were unsatisfactory in approximately 40 per cent of patients. Changes in superficial venous pressure during exercise occurred when the deep veins were recanalized and the perforating veins became incompetent. These pressure changes could be used to select patients likely to develop the full syndrome. It is suggested that development of an intractable syndrome might be prevented if ligation of incompetent perforating and deep veins is performed before tissue changes become established.