In a prospective study the authors examined by coloured duplex sonography 76 patients (93 extremities) with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), before a planned operation of the veins of the lower extremities. Attention was focused on the site of the reflux ( superficial, deep venous system, perforators) and the importance of perforators and congenital venous anomalies in CVI. In the investigated group of patients with CVI a combined reflux was present in several venous systems concurrently, confirmed in 69 extremities (74.2%). In 25 extremities the authors found insufficiency of the saphenofemoral junction along with femoropopliteal reflux. This high grade of reflux coincidence in these two neighbouring anatomical areas indicates so-called secondary reflux. Dilated perforators were found in 65 extremities (70%). These insufficient perforators were most frequently on the median side of the leg, regardless whether in the proximal or distal half. Obviously there is direct correlation between the grade of CVI according to the international clinical classification and the number of incompetent perforators. The ratio of inborn venous anomalies in the development of CVI in the authors group of patients was not statistically significant.

Keywords: Adult; Chronic Disease; Female; Humans; Leg /blood supply/; Male; Middle Aged; Ultrasonography, Doppler, Color; Venous Insufficiency /diagnostic imaging/