Varicose vein surgery.

The treatment of superficial venous disease and chronic venous insufficiency continues to evolve, and the interest in venous disease has matched that in arterial disease in vascular medicine. A better understanding of venous anatomy and pathophysiology and the development of newer, more efficient diagnostic technology have allowed clinicians to utilize minimally invasive techniques in the treatment of varicose veins. These techniques have reduced recurrence and improved overall quality of life (postoperative pain and bruising) following these procedures. This article provides an overview of basic venous surgical anatomy and pathophysiology, along with several older and newer surgical options in the treatment of superficial venous disease. Advantages and disadvantages of each approach are briefly discussed so that the reader may gain better understanding of the options available in the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency.