Which treatment would patients prefer for their varicose veins?

This questionnaire-based study investigated the preferences of patients with varicose veins for injection treatment or surgery, based on a series of explicit facts about each method. In all, 72 questionnaires were returned (77% response rate). Factors influencing patients in favour of injections were no time off work (38%) and no general anaesthetic (31%). A bandage on the leg for 3-6 weeks influenced 44% against injections. A lower chance of recurrence at 5-10 years influenced 80% of patients towards surgery. Overall, 25% expressed an overall preference for injections, and 63% preferred surgery (12% no preference). Patients with bilateral varicose veins were asked about their preferences for two unilateral day case operations or one bilateral inpatient procedure. The majority preferred a single bilateral operation, based on one general anaesthetic (88%) and one admission only (77%), less time off work (58%), and discomfort on one occasion only (50%). These preferences, expressed by well-informed patients, should be considered when planning services for the treatment of varicose veins.