COMPLIANCE CHANGES IN VENOUS INSUFFICIENCY

In 37 patients (69 limbs) referred to Mayo Clinic's Vascular Center fo r possible venous valvular insufficiency in the lower limb, calf muscl e pump function, calf compliance, and venous refilling times were meas ured by strain gauge plethysmography techniques. Patient limbs were se parated into four categories based on 90% refilling time (T90) followi ng fifteen deep knee bends: normal (n = 16), mild/moderate (n = 28), s evere (n = 16), and edema of nonvenous origin (n = 9). Pump function w as assessed in actual pumping volumes (mL) and in percent pumping volu mes (mL/100 mL), and was reduced in all noncontrol categories. Calf co mpliance was assessed in actual volume change (mL/mmHg) and in percent volume change (mL/100 mL/mmHg) and was increased in the severe reflux category. Ten study patients had 1 normal category limb and 1 reflux category limb. Paired analysis of these limbs showed pump function to be decreased and calf compliance to be increased in the diseased group limbs.