Thromboprophylaxis practices following varicose veins surgery

Abstract

Objective: It is not clear whether patients undergoing varicose veins operations should receive thromboprophylaxis. A nationwide survey was conducted to assess thromboprophylaxis practice patterns in patients undergoing conventional vein surgery or endovenous procedures.

Methods: A questionnaire was e-mailed to all members of the Greek Society of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery (n = 163).

Results: In all, 68 members (42%) returned the survey, and 53% reported that they were not performing endovenous procedures. Thromboprophylaxis was used routinely by 52% after conventional surgery and 58% after endovenous procedures. Low-molecular-weight heparin was the preferred type of prophylaxis. Risk factors justifying thromboprophylaxis varied considerably among respondents. Postoperative duplex was performed routinely by 48% following stripping and by 76% following endovascular procedures.

Conclusion: Thromboprophylaxis practices following varicose veins procedures vary among vascular surgeons in Greece. This reflects the uncertainty regarding the exact incidence of thromboembolic events in the existing literature as well as the absence of specific guidelines.