Venous claudication. A report of 15 cases and a review of the literature.

The symptom of intermittent claudication is not invariably due to arterial disease. Exercise-related pain resulting from venous insufficiency is poorly defined, but has been described by a number of authors in the past. Fifteen patients with symptoms suggestive of venous claudication are reported. The history and clinical findings are described. The further investigation of these patients is outlined, starting with the non-invasive methods of Doppler ultrasonography and strain gauge plethysmography. Ascending phlebography was performed on all affected limbs (n. 19) and descending phlebography was performed on those shown to have a patent deep venous system. These investigations demonstrated deep venous abnormalities associated with the distinct symptom complex. Venous claudication is defined and the literature reviewed. It is hoped that a clearer understanding of the condition will result in more frequent and accurate diagnosis with subsequent benefit to the patient.