[Annular constriction of popliteal vein for treating severe venous insufficiency].

OBJECTIVE

To study the mechanism and therapeutic effects of annular constriction for severe venous insufficiency of legs.

METHODS

Annular constriction of popliteal vein was performed by Gore-Tex vascular graft in 82 patients. Among them, 78 patients had deep venous valve insufficiency of legs (III, IV degree), 2 postphlebitic syndrome, and 2 valve absence of deep vein. Under normal respiration and breath holding, venous pressure was measured at the proximal and distal part from the constricting site.

RESULTS

Great difference was noted in the venous pressure between the proximal and distal part from the constricting site. The pressure was (9.4 +/- 4.5) mm Hg, (41.2 +/- 28.1) mm Hg at calm and (32.4 +/- 16.2) mm Hg, (41.2 +/- 28.1)mm Hg at breath holding (P < 0.01). Symptoms disappeared or released after operation. Ulcer healed in all patients. Venous pressure decreased by over 60%. Pressure recovery time was over 22 seconds. There was no reflux distal to the constricting site. Deep venous angiography and color Doppler showed an effect similar to venous valve.

CONCLUSION

Annular constriction is effective in treating severe venous insufficiency of legs.