National Varicose Vein Study - Portugal

The National Varicose Vein Study is a cross-sectional, multicenter, observational study. The primary goal is to evaluate the 30 days outcome of the conventional great saphenous vein surgery (stripping) in the treatment of the symptomatic chronic venous insufficiency, comparing the results of difference Portuguese's health centers, comparing the following variables: thrombo-prophylaxis (pharmacology or mechanic; compliance); antimicrobial prophylaxis; quality of life; medication compliance; complications and work incapacity period.

Chronic venous disease is one of the most prevalent pathologies in the world population. It presents a spectrum of variable manifestations, culminating in the most severe form, active venous ulcer. The clinical evaluation, the study of venous anatomy by echo- Doppler and the indications for surgical treatment are standardized in guidelines. The same applies to the techniques for surgical treatment that, in the long term, present equally satisfactory results. Thus, currently, in the Portuguese national health system, the surgical technique most frequently used is conventional surgery. As for postoperative care, namely thromboprophylaxis regimens, analgesia regimens, there is greater variability in its application between clinics and institutions, which may result in significant differences in postoperative recovery. In this way, we intend to develop an observational, cross-sectional and multicenter study, comparing postoperative care protocols and patient compliance and impact on quality of life, as well as absence from work. The primary goal is to evaluate the 30 days outcome of the conventional great saphenous vein surgery (stripping) in the treatment of the symptomatic chronic venous insufficiency, comparing the results of difference Portuguese's health centers, comparing the following variables: thrombo-prophylaxis (pharmacology or mechanic; compliance); antimicrobial prophylaxis; quality of life; medication compliance; complications and work incapacity period.