Varicography.

Fifty patients (25 with primary untreated varicose veins and 25 with recurrence following surgery) were studied by varicography. The connections of the varicose veins with the long and short saphenous systems and through communicating veins to the deep veins are described. The low osmolality contrast medium Hexabrix was used and no complications were encountered. The authors conclude that using a low thrombogenic medium the examination is safe and the information valuable in planning management. Removal of, or damage to, the long saphenous vein, a potential future bypass conduit is no longer justified and pre-operative varicography assists in its preservation.