Muller's ambulatory phlebectomy for varicose veins of the foot.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Ambulatory phlebectomy is an accepted therapy for varicose veins. It has also been used for ankle and foot varicosities with success although the anatomy of the venous system of the foot is poorly described in the literature. OBJECTIVE: To review the relevant literature on the anatomy of the veins of the foot. Also to form an opinion on safe possibilities for the treatment of foot varicosis. METHODS: The English, French, German, and Dutch language literature was reviewed for anatomy and treatment of varicose veins of the foot. Fourteen patients (19 feet) were treated for varicose veins of the foot with ambulatory phlebectomy. RESULTS: Literature concerning the venous anatomy of the foot is very limited. Venous surgery, sclerotherapy, and ambulatory phlebectomy have all been used for the treatment of varicose veins of the foot. The former two have resulted in serious complications. All treated patients showed excellent results with ambulatory phlebectomy. No serious side effects were seen. CONCLUSIONS: The venous anatomy of the foot does not indicate major restrictions in the treatment of its varicosities. Ambulatory phlebectomy is the safest and most elegant treatment option for varicose veins of the foot. Venous surgery and sclerotherapy may be used successfully in special cases only.