Venous and Lymphatic Disease Flashcards
Which disease affects the superficial veins only?
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins in more common in…
Middle aged women
Name the two superficial veins in the leg
Short saphenous (greater) Long Saphenous (lesser)
Describe the drainage of superficial veins
Long Saphenous- drains into the femoral at the proximal medial thigh.
Short Saphenous- drains into the popliteal at the back of the knee.
Describe the pathophysiology of VV
Valves are damaged which allows backflow & pooling of blood in veins.
Can be hereditary or secondary to venous disease.
Which vein is more commonly affected?
Long Saphenous (80%)
Points to look for in a history and why?
Age- indicate primary vs secondary Occupation- standing all day? Pregnancy- big baby/ twins Previous DVT/ major trauma Family History Impact on lifestyle
Name 5 symptoms of VV
- Cosmesis- look ugly
- Localised or General discomfort in legs
- Nocturnal Cramps
- Swelling
- Venous eczema/ itching
Name two signs which would be indications for intervention
- Acute Haemorrhage- fragile skin and blood under pressure leads to bleeding
- Superficial Thrombophlebitis- thrombus in vein leads to swelling and inflammation.
Investigations for VV
Duplex Ultrasound
Findings on D.U.S
Backflow of blood
Check patency of deep veins in case of surgery.
Indications for intervention VV
- Bleeding
- Impacting on functionality
- thrombophlebitis
- signs of chronic venous insufficiency.
- anxiety or depression.
Options for treatment of VV
- Surgery
- Foam Sclerotherapy
- Minimally invasive therapy
- Conservative- compression
Describe the process of surgery
Open vein and strip it out- pull it out at the junction with the saphenous.
Contraindications for surgery in VV
Previous DVT
Arterial Insufficiency
Morbid obesity
Co-morbidity