Surgical treatment of venous insufficiency.

The incidence of venous insufficiency syndrome (VIS) is increasing. Although clinical findings will help for diagnosis of this condition, invasive and non invasive tests confirm the diagnosis. Thermodilution, a new and unique technique, appears to be the only test for diagnosis and decision making for treatment of this condition. Overloading and increase muscle work appear to be present in cases of VIS. Cases of failed medical treatment and findings of increased flow, with venography evidence of grade IV venous insufficiency are generally subjected to surgical treatment. Ninety-four cases of severe VIS have been operated on since July 1980 with 75% excellent results.