THE VALUE OF PREOPERATIVE ULTRASOUND MAPPING OF THE GREATER SAPHENOUS-VEIN PRIOR TO CLOSED IN-SITU BYPASS OPERATION

Objective: The aim of this study was to test pre-operative ultrasound mapping for the detection of duplications and narrow vein segments of the greater saphenous vein (GSV) used as bypass for occlusive arterial disease surgery. Patients and methods: In 44 patients pre-operative u ltrasound findings of duplications and lumen assessment of the GSV wer e compared to the per-operative findings. Results: In nine patients (2 0%) the pre-operative ultrasound examination showed a duplication. Pre -operative ultrasound had missed a duplication in two cases but had in stead shown segment in both. The pre-operative ultrasound assessment o f lumen diameter showed a narrow lumen segment in 10 of the 44 patient s. In one patient a per-operatively narrow lumen had not seen on pre-o perative ultrasound. Conclusion: Pre-operative ultrasound mapping of t he GSV is a sensitive tool for detection of duplications and narrow ve in segments. Since these anatomical variations provide important infor mation for the vascular surgeon, before performing a 'closed' in situ bypass operation, pre-operative vein mapping should be considered when planning such a procedures.