How successful is varicose vein surgery? A patient outcome study following varicose vein surgery using the SF-36 Health Assessment Questionnaire.

OBJECTIVE

Assessment of outcome after varicose vein surgery.

DESIGN

Prospective study using the Health Assessment Questionnaire (SF36) which considers different aspects of overall health.

SETTING

University Hospital and Community.

MATERIALS

150 patients undergoing varicose vein surgery.

CHIEF OUTCOME MEASURES

SF36 questionnaires were sent pre-operatively and at 1 and 6 months post surgery.

MAIN RESULTS

Eighty-nine (59%) patients answered all three questionnaires. Pre-operatively their overall health was similar to that of the general population. The "cost" to the patient of the operation was demonstrated by an increased pain and reduced role function at 1 month post-operation (p < 0.01). By 6 months post-operation, when compared with preoperative values, all dimensions except social function and health perception were improved (p < 0.01). Overall symptoms improved (p < 0.01) by 1 month and were further improved at 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The general good health of varicose vein patients may justify the low priority given to their treatment, but the improvement in symptoms and general health that relatively simple surgery provides should ensure its continued provision as a health care service.