Complications following re-exploration of the groin for recurrent varicose veins

Abstract

Background: Groin surgery for recurrent varicose veins can be technically difficult due to scarring from previous surgery. Access to the sapheno-femoral junction (SFJ) can be facilitated by approaching the veins indirectly (subfascially) by first exposing the common femoral artery. The aim of this paper was to document experience with both direct and indirect approaches to the SFJ for recurrent varicose veins.

Method: A retrospective analysis of all patients having groin surgery for recurrent varicose veins.

Results: Of 128 legs having surgery, the approach to the SFJ was direct in 46%, indirect in 53% and unknown in one leg. Complications occurred after 40% of all procedures but were significantly more common following indirect surgery (57% versus 20%, P < 0.001), of which the most frequent were of a lymphatic nature (26% versus 5%, P < 0.001) or wound infection (16% versus 7%, P = 0.05).

Conclusion: Wound complications are common following groin surgery for recurrent varicose veins especially after an indirect approach to the SFJ.