Varices

Abstract

Chronic venous disease is a common affection in industrialized countries; data from epidemiological population-based studies show a prevalence ranging from 30 to 40%. Varicose veins refer to a permanent dilatation of superficial veins characterized by dilated, tortuous and lengthened subcutaneous veins, according to Arnoldi. In the lower limbs, varicose veins are observed in the essential superficial venous disease, in the postthrombotic syndrome, and in vascular dysplasia. In a context of essential superficial venous disease which is a hereditary disease, the evolution is chronic and insidious. For a long time this disease was neglected, both by patients and doctors; today, varicose veins are better investigated as a result of the development of non-invasive investigation techniques. Besides, the development of new therapies, which may be utilized as monotherapy or combined therapy, achieve a better treatment and stabilization of the disease in ambulatory conditions or with a short duration hospitalization. In addition to unaesthetic consequences, non-treated venous insufficiency may result in trophic complications such as stasis dermatitis, white atrophy, hypodermic inflammation, or leg ulceration. Patients with these complications usually report a significant social and professional impact. Early diagnosis and treatment, and better management with adapted therapies are necessary to prevent the evolution of the disease and the occurrence of such tissular complications, and also to reduce the costs in terms of public health. Today, adequate public information, prevention strategies, and early detection have notably reduced the frequency of these complications.