Vascular Services

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Varicose Veins - Introduction

There are two main systems of veins. The deep high pressure and superficial low pressure system. The two systems communicate with each other at the sapheno-femoral (Groin) and sapheno-popliteal (knee) junctions as well as via perforators. Strategically placed valves ensure uni-directional flow towards the heart and protect the superficial veins from the high venous pressures in the deep system. Failure of these valves (incompetence) leads to superficial and / or deep venous insufficiency. When the valves at the sapheno-femoral or sapheno-popliteal junctions fail, high pressure blood refluxes into the low pressure system causing sequential failure of the valves. Over time the vein dilates and elongates becoming tortuous and hence the name varicose. When the whole vein is varicose excessive pressure is produced at the ankle on standing. This increased pressure (venous hypertension) disrupts the normal delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. Its no surprise then that varicose veins produce pain, swelling, discomfort and can lead to varicose eczema and ultimately ulceration.