PNEUMATIC PHLEBOGRAPHY - A POSSIBLE NEW TECHNIQUE FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF RECURRENT VARICOSE-VEINS

Initial experience with a new technique, using an inflatable compressi on device during ascending phlebography, is described. This method is compared with standard varicography in a small series of patients with recurrent varicose veins. In this pilot study, 13 patients had 17 lim bs examined by the new method and 14 limbs by varicography. Below knee perforator incompetence was demonstrated directly in all limbs by 'pn eumatic phlebography'. Short-saphenous vein and mid-thigh perforator i ncompetence were also more frequently demonstrated. The two tests are comparable at showing recurrent or persistent connection at the groin (13 limbs, overall). With modifications of the pressure device, pneuma tic phlebography may prove to be an important method of assessing recu rrent varicose veins.