Injury to the common peroneal nerve during surgery of the lesser saphenousvein

Citation
G. Lucertini et al., Injury to the common peroneal nerve during surgery of the lesser saphenousvein, PHLEBOLOGY, 14(1), 1999, pp. 26-28
Citations number
8
Categorie Soggetti
Surgery
Journal title
PHLEBOLOGY
ISSN journal
02683555 → ACNP
Volume
14
Issue
1
Year of publication
1999
Pages
26 - 28
Database
ISI
SICI code
0268-3555(1999)14:1<26:ITTCPN>2.0.ZU;2-R
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the incidence and associated problems of common pero neal nerve (CPN) injury, which can occur during short saphenous vein (SSV) surgery. Design: A retrospective cohort study. Setting: Section of Vascular Surgery in a University Hospital. Patients: In a consecutive series of 88 patients (31 male, 57 female, ages ranging from 35 to 68 years, mean 49), 104 lower extremities were operated on for SSV insufficiency. Interventions: Each patient was assessed by clinical examination, duplex sc anning and in some cases by venography (ascending venography and/or varicog raphy). Surgery was carried out via a longitudinal or transverse approach i n the popliteal region or the posterior aspect of the thigh. Main outcome measures: Haemodynamic criteria, cosmetic outcome and complica tions of the surgical procedures due to SSV insufficiency were considered. In particular, we focused on neurological complications. Results: Abnormality of foot dorsiflexion was observed in two out of 104 (2 %) cases. This complication was caused by injury to the CPN. Recovery had o ccurred 1 year later. Conclusions: Two factors seem to be essential in preventing this neurologic al complication: (a) good knowledge of surgical anatomy and (b) a cautious, accurate surgical technique. The incidence of this complication has been u nderestimated, but its importance and medico-legal implications must be emp hasised.