Correlation Between Cutaneous Manifestations and Functional Alterations in Chronic Venous Disease of the Lower Extremities / Correlación entre las manifestaciones cutáneas y las alteraciones funcionales en la insuficiencia venosa crónica en las extremidades inferiores

Background and aims Few studies have evaluated the correlation between the severity of cutaneous manifestations of chronic venous disease (CVD) of the lower limbs measured by the Clinical, Etiologic, Anatomic and Pathophysiologic classification (CEAP) and the Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) combined, its risk factors, and venous reflux determined by Doppler ultrasonography. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical severity assessed by CEAP and VCSS with known risk factors for CVD and the severity of venous reflux. Methods A prospective study was carried out on 250 patients with CVD characterized as C2 to C6 according to the CEAP classification, who attended the departments of Dermatology and Vascular Medicine at the Hospital Privado Universitario de Córdoba from April 2013 to December 2014. Chi-square test, Kruskal–Wallis analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to examine the relations between these variables. Result Risk factors significantly associated with clinical severity included older age, hypertension, obesity, sedentarism, history of soft tissue infection, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), previous ulcer, and family history of venous ulcer. Both scores showed a good correlation between clinical severity and the presence of superficial, deep or perforating venous reflux. Older age, male gender and a history of DVT were significant risk factors for venous reflux in patients with mild disease. Conclusions In addition to venous reflux, modifiable risk factors such as obesity, sedentarism, and hypertension are associated with CVD severity. Mild cutaneous manifestations may accompany moderate to severe venous reflux, especially in middle-aged or older men with a history of DVT (AU)

Antecedentes y objetivos Pocos estudios han evaluado la correlación entre la gravedad de las manifestaciones cutáneas de la insuficiencia venosa crónica (IVC) en las extremidades inferiores medida conjuntamente utilizando la clasificación Clinical, Etiologic, Anatomic and Pathophysiologic classification (CEAP) y Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS), sus factores de riesgo y el flujo venoso determinado mediante ecografía Doppler. El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar la gravedad clínica evaluada mediante CEAP y VCSS y los factores de riesgo conocidos para IVC y la gravedad del reflujo venoso. Métodos Se llevó a cabo un estudio prospectivo de 250 pacientes con IVC caracterizada de C2 a C6 conforme a la clasificación CEAP, que acudieron a los departamentos de Dermatología y Medicina Vascular del Hospital Privado Universitario de Córdoba de abril de 2013 a diciembre de 2014. Se realizaron las pruebas χ2 y Kruskal-Wallis, así como un análisis de regresión logística multivariante para examinar las relaciones entre estas variables. Resultados Los factores significativamente asociados a la gravedad clínica fueron: edad avanzada, hipertensión, obesidad, sedentarismo, historia de infección de tejidos blandos, trombosis venosa profunda (TVP), úlcera previa y antecedentes familiares de úlcera venosa. Ambas puntuaciones reflejaron una buena correlación entre la gravedad clínica y la presencia de reflujo venoso superficial, profundo o perforante. La edad avanzada, el sexo masculino y los antecedentes de TVP fueron factores de riesgo significativos para el reflujo venoso en los pacientes con enfermedad leve. Conclusiones Además del reflujo venoso, los factores de riesgo moderado modificables, tales como la obesidad, el sedentarismo y la hipertensión, están asociados a la gravedad de la IVC. Las manifestaciones cutáneas leves pueden acompañar al reflujo venoso de moderado a severo, especialmente en los varones de mediana edad, o edad avanzada, con antecedentes de TVP (AU)

[Artículo traducido] Correlación entre las manifestaciones cutáneas y las alteraciones funcionales en la insuficiencia venosa crónica en las extremidades inferiores / Correlation Between Cutaneous Manifestations and Functional Alterations in Chronic Venous Disease of the Lower Extremities

Antecedentes y objetivos Pocos estudios han evaluado la correlación entre la gravedad de las manifestaciones cutáneas de la insuficiencia venosa crónica (IVC) en las extremidades inferiores medida conjuntamente utilizando la clasificación Clinical, Etiologic, Anatomic and Pathophysiologic classification (CEAP) y Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS), sus factores de riesgo y el flujo venoso determinado mediante ecografía Doppler. El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar la gravedad clínica evaluada mediante CEAP y VCSS y los factores de riesgo conocidos para IVC y la gravedad del reflujo venoso. Métodos Se llevó a cabo un estudio prospectivo de 250 pacientes con IVC caracterizada de C2 a C6 conforme a la clasificación CEAP, que acudieron a los departamentos de Dermatología y Medicina Vascular del Hospital Privado Universitario de Córdoba de abril de 2013 a diciembre de 2014. Se realizaron las pruebas χ2 y Kruskal-Wallis, así como un análisis de regresión logística multivariante para examinar las relaciones entre estas variables. Resultados Los factores significativamente asociados a la gravedad clínica fueron: edad avanzada, hipertensión, obesidad, sedentarismo, historia de infección de tejidos blandos, trombosis venosa profunda (TVP), úlcera previa y antecedentes familiares de úlcera venosa. Ambas puntuaciones reflejaron una buena correlación entre la gravedad clínica y la presencia de reflujo venoso superficial, profundo o perforante. La edad avanzada, el sexo masculino y los antecedentes de TVP fueron factores de riesgo significativos para el reflujo venoso en los pacientes con enfermedad leve. Conclusiones Además del reflujo venoso, los factores de riesgo moderado modificables, tales como la obesidad, el sedentarismo y la hipertensión, están asociados a la gravedad de la IVC. Las manifestaciones cutáneas leves pueden acompañar al reflujo venoso de moderado a severo, especialmente en los varones de mediana edad, o edad avanzada, con antecedentes de TVP (AU)

Background and aims Few studies have evaluated the correlation between the severity of cutaneous manifestations of chronic venous disease (CVD) of the lower limbs measured by the Clinical, Etiologic, Anatomic and Pathophysiologic classification (CEAP) and the Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) combined, its risk factors, and venous reflux determined by Doppler ultrasonography. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical severity assessed by CEAP and VCSS with known risk factors for CVD and the severity of venous reflux. Methods A prospective study was carried out on 250 patients with CVD characterized as C2 to C6 according to the CEAP classification, who attended the departments of Dermatology and Vascular Medicine at the Hospital Privado Universitario de Córdoba from April 2013 to December 2014. Chi-square test, Kruskal–Wallis analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to examine the relations between these variables. Result Risk factors significantly associated with clinical severity included older age, hypertension, obesity, sedentarism, history of soft tissue infection, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), previous ulcer, and family history of venous ulcer. Both scores showed a good correlation between clinical severity and the presence of superficial, deep or perforating venous reflux. Older age, male gender and a history of DVT were significant risk factors for venous reflux in patients with mild disease. Conclusions In addition to venous reflux, modifiable risk factors such as obesity, sedentarism, and hypertension are associated with CVD severity. Mild cutaneous manifestations may accompany moderate to severe venous reflux, especially in middle-aged or older men with a history of DVT (AU)

Correlation Between Cutaneous Manifestations and Functional Alterations in Chronic Venous Disease of the Lower Extremities.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Few studies have evaluated the correlation between the severity of cutaneous manifestations of chronic venous disease (CVD) of the lower limbs measured by the Clinical, Etiologic, Anatomic and Pathophysiologic classification (CEAP) and the Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) combined, its risk factors, and venous reflux determined by Doppler ultrasonography. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical severity assessed by CEAP and VCSS with known risk factors for CVD and the severity of venous reflux. METHODS: A prospective study was carried out on 250 patients with CVD characterized as C2 to C6 according to the CEAP classification, who attended the departments of Dermatology and Vascular Medicine at the Hospital Privado Universitario de Córdoba from April 2013 to December 2014. Chi-square test, Kruskal-Wallis analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to examine the relations between these variables. RESULTS: Risk factors significantly associated with clinical severity included older age, hypertension, obesity, sedentarism, history of soft tissue infection, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), previous ulcer, and family history of venous ulcer. Both scores showed a good correlation between clinical severity and the presence of superficial, deep or perforating venous reflux. Older age, male gender and a history of DVT were significant risk factors for venous reflux in patients with mild disease. CONCLUSIONS: In addition to venous reflux, modifiable risk factors such as obesity, sedentarism, and hypertension are associated with CVD severity. Mild cutaneous manifestations may accompany moderate to severe venous reflux, especially in middle-aged or older men with a history of DVT.

Ultrasound-guided interventional radiology procedures on veins.

Although ultrasound-guided interventional procedures have resulted in great advances in many fields of medicine, this approach has revolutionized endovascular procedures. This paper aims to review the basic principles to develop a strategy to follow in ultrasound-guided treatments of varices in the lower limbs, as well as to provide a brief overview of the main endovenous techniques available nowadays. We divide these techniques into those that use catheters to occlude straight saphenous axes (thermal / non-thermal ablation) and other options, such as foam sclerotherapy, which can be used in all types of varices, even in those originating in the pelvis.

Intervencionismo venoso guiado por ecografía / Serie interventional ultrasound: Ultrasound-guided interventional radiology procedures on veins

Si en muchos campos de la medicina el intervencionismo ecográfico ha aportado grandes avances, sin duda en lo que respecta a las terapias endovenosas ha supuesto una revolución. El presente artículo pretende repasar los principios básicos para desarrollar una estrategia a seguir en los tratamientos ecoguiados de varices en los miembros inferiores. Así mismo, busca transmitir una breve perspectiva sobre las principales técnicas endovenosas disponibles en la actualidad. Dichas técnicas las dividiremos principalmente en aquellas que se sirven de un catéter con el fin de ocluir los ejes safenos rectos (ablación térmica/no térmica) y aquellas otras opciones, como es la esclerosis con espuma, que permite su uso en todo tipo de varices, incluso las de origen pélvico.(AU)

Although ultrasound-guided interventional procedures have resulted in great advances in many fields of medicine, this approach has revolutionized endovascular procedures. This paper aims to review the basic principles to develop a strategy to follow in ultrasound-guided treatments of varices in the lower limbs, as well as to provide a brief overview of the main endovenous techniques available nowadays. We divide these techniques into those that use catheters to occlude straight saphenous axes (thermal / non-thermal ablation) and other options, such as foam sclerotherapy, which can be used in all types of varices, even in those originating in the pelvis.(AU)

Hemorragia fatal de una ulcera venosa crónica: Reporte de un caso / Fatal bleeding from a chronic venous ulcer: case report

Resumen La enfermedad venosa crónica es un trastorno común que se manifiesta con una amplia gama de signos. En casos en los que la enfermedad adquiere gravedad se le denomina insuficiencia venosa crónica y esta puede llevar al desarrollo de una úlcera venosa. Un trauma directo o la erosión de una vena varicosa pueden llevar a una hemorragia que, aunado a enfermedades crónicas concomitantes, factores toxicológicos, sociales o primeros auxilios inadecuados pueden llevar a la muerte en pocos minutos y en un escenario del crimen que puede ser confuso a primera vista para el equipo forense. Se reporta un caso valorado en la Sección de Patología Forense del Departamento de Medicina Legal del Poder Judicial de Costa Rica en el que se realizó una autopsia completa. Dentro de los hallazgos más importantes a nivel macróscopico se evidenció una úlcera cónica de características venosas en la pierna derecha en la cual, mediante la disección por planos y la inyección de colorante en la vena safena magna, se observó la salida de este por una vena varicosa relacionada con la úlcera.

Abstract Chronic venous disease is a common disorder that shows a large spectrum of signs. In cases in which the disease acquires severity it is named chronic venous insufficiency, and it can cause the development of a venous ulcer. Direct trauma to or erosion of a varicose vein can lead to a hemorrhage that, in combination with coexistent conditions, toxicologic or social factors, or inadequate first aid can produce death in few minutes and a crime scene which might be confusing at first sight to the forensics team. We present a case handled by the Forensic Pathology Section of the Department of Legal Medicine of the Judicial Power of Costa Rica in which a complete autopsy was performed. Among the most relevant macroscopic findings was evidence of a chronic ulcer with venous characteristics on the right leg, in which dissection by planes and dye injection into the great saphenous vein showed leakage of this dye out of a varicose vein related to the ulcer.

Oclusión de la vena safena con cianocrilato, una alternativa para el tratamiento de insuficiencia venosa crónica. Experiencia inicial en el Instituto Guatemalteco de Seguridad Social ­ IGSS / Occlusion of the saphenous vein with cyanoacrylate, an alternative for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency. Initial experience at the Guatemalan Social Security Institute - IGSS

Las técnicas de termo ablación han revolucionado el tratamiento de la insuficiencia venosa crónica, siendo actualmente el estándar de tratamiento. Con el avance tecnológico han surgido nuevas técnicas quirúrgicas, no térmicas, no tumescentes; como el uso de cianocrilato para la oclusión venosa, el cual ha demostrado ser seguro y eficaz en el tratamiento, y tener menos complicaciones posoperatorias. Objetivo: Describir la experiencia en nuestro hospital con el uso de cianocrilato para la oclusión de vena safena mayor para el tratamiento de insuficiencia venosa crónica. Describir la eficacia a corto y mediano plazo del cierre, las complicaciones y la mejoría de la sintomatología utilizando el cuestionario CIVIQ-20 y EVA. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo observacional. Entre enero y diciembre de 2019 que incluye a pacientes con insuficiencia de unión safeno femoral, sintomáticos. Con diagnóstico mediante clasificación CEAP y ultrasonido Doppler. Seguimiento clínico y ecográfico valorando oclusión de los segmentos tratados y presencia de venas varicosas a los 3 y 6 meses. Se trataron 5 pacientes con oclusión venosa con cianocrilato (100% mujeres). Valoramos la calidad de vida mediante cuestionario CIVIQ-20 y EVA (Escala Analógica Visual) previo y un mes después del procedimiento. También se describe la tasa de éxito y complicaciones inmediatas y tardías. Resultados: La totalidad de los procedimientos se realizaron con anestesia local, siendo bien tolerados. Con un éxito inmediato del 100 % sin necesidad de conversión. Solo se presentó como complicación urticaria en un paciente en el trayecto de la vena tratada con cianocrilato, la cual se trató con esteroides y resolvió. El CIVIQ-20 mostró mejoría global pasando de 35 a 29 puntos en promedio; siendo el parámetro de actividad física el que mostró una mejoría mayor. EVA demostró que la pesadez (principal síntoma) se redujo un 67%. Durante el seguimiento, ningún caso presento repermeabilización o recanalizaciones segmentarias. Conclusiones: El tratamiento endovenoso de la insuficiencia venosa crónica con las nuevas técnicas no térmicas, no tumescentes es seguro y efectivo. A corto-mediano plazo ofrecen resultados similares a las técnicas termoablativas obviando el inconveniente de la tumescencia y el uso de medias compresivas en el posoperatorio, evitando lesiones térmicas y observándose mejoría en la sintomatología. (AU)

Thermo ablation techniques have revolutionized the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency, being currently the standard of treatment. With technological advancement, new non-thermal, non-tumescent surgical techniques have emerged; such as the use of cyanoacrylate for venous occlusion, which has been shown to be safe and effective in treatment, and have fewer postoperative complications. Objective: To describe the experience in our hospital with the use of cyanoacrylate for occlusion of the greater saphenous vein for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency. Describe the shortand medium-term efficacy of closure, complications, and symptom improvement using the CIVIQ-20 questionnaire and VAS. Material and methods: Retrospective observational study. Between January and December 2019 that includes patients with symptomatic saphenous femoral junction insufficiency. With diagnosis by CEAP classification and Doppler ultrasound. Clinical and ultrasound follow-up evaluating occlusion of the treated segments and the presence of varicose veins at 3 and 6 months. 5 patients with venous occlusion were treated with cyanoacrylate (100% women). We assessed the quality of life using the CIVIQ-20 questionnaire and VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) before and one month after the procedure. The immediate and late success rate and complications are also described. Results: All the procedures were performed under local anesthesia, being well tolerated. With immediate 100% success without the need for conversion. Urticaria only presented as a complication in a patient in the path of the vein treated with cyanoacrylate, which was treated with steroids and resolved. The CIVIQ-20 showed global improvement, going from 35 to 29 points on average; being the physical activity parameter the one that showed the greatest improvement. VAS showed that heaviness (main symptom) was reduced by 67%. During follow-up, no case presented segmental recanalization or recanalization. Conclusions: Endovenous treatment of chronic venous insufficiency with new non-thermal, non-tumescent techniques is safe and effective. In the short-medium term, they offer results similar to thermoablative techniques, avoiding the inconvenience of tumescence and the use of compression stockings in the postoperative period, avoiding thermal injuries and observing improvement in symptoms. (AU)

Efeitos do fortalecimento muscular do tríceps sural na função da bomba venosa na insuficiência venosa crônica / Effects of strengthening the surae triceps muscle on venous pump function in chronic venous insufficiency

Resumo Contexto A insuficiência venosa crônica (IVC) é uma doença comum, uma disfunção da bomba muscular da panturrilha que repercute na hemodinâmica das estruturas. Objetivos Analisar os efeitos dos exercícios de fortalecimento muscular da panturrilha na hemodinâmica venosa em pacientes com IVC. Métodos O estudo contou com a participação de 13 pacientes e 25 membros inferiores com IVC, classificados entre C1 e C5 da classificação Clínica, Etiologia, Anatomia e Fisiopatologia (CEAP), oriundos do ambulatório de cirurgia vascular do Hospital Universitário Regional dos Campos Gerais. As variáveis analisadas foram dinamometria isométrica, goniometria, perimetria, adipometria no início, primeiro mês, segundo mês e final da aplicação do protocolo de exercícios. Resultados Os valores da dorsiflexão e da plantiflexão aumentaram 5º (p < 0,001). Na adipometria notou-se uma redução de 5 mm (p < 0,001). Quando separados em grupos pela CEAP, na C2 houve aumento de 5º na dorsiflexão (p = 0,02) e na plantiflexão (p < 0,001); na C3 houve aumento de 5º na dorsiflexão (p = 0,003) e redução de 1 mm na adipometria (p < 0,004); na C1 houve aumento da perimetria de 1,2 cm (p = 0,04). Conclusões A aplicação de protocolos de exercícios deveria ser considerada como uma forma de tratamento para IVC, pois impacta positivamente em fatores de risco e nas funções que estão deterioradas pela patologia.

Abstract Background Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a common disease that causes calf muscle pump dysfunction and has repercussions for the hemodynamics of the structures involved. Objectives To analyze the effects on venous hemodynamics of exercises to strengthen the calf muscles in patients with CVI. Methods The study analyzed 25 lower limbs with CVI, classified from C1 to C5 according to the Clinical, Etiology, Anatomy, and Pathophysiology (CEAP) classification, in 13 patients recruited from a Lymphedema and Angiodysplasia Clinic at the Hospital Universitário Regional dos Campos Gerais (Brazil). The variables analyzed were collected by isometric dynamometry, goniometry, leg circumference measurement, and adipometry at baseline, after 1 month and 2 months and at the end of the exercise protocol. Results Dorsiflexion and plantar flexion measurements increased by 5º (p < 0.001). Adipometry detected a reduction in 5 mm (p < 0.001). When grouped by CEAP class, C2 exhibited 5º increases in dorsiflexion (p = 0.02) and plantar flexion (p < 0.001); C3 exhibited a 5ºincrease in dorsiflexion (p = 0.003) and a 1mm reduction in adipometry (p < 0.004); and C1 exhibited a 1.2cm increase in leg circumference (p = 0.04). Conclusions Administration of exercise protocols should be considered as a treatment option for CVI, since it has a positive impact on risk factors and on the functions that are impaired by this pathology.

Avaliação da termoablação com endolaser da veia safena parva com anestesia local / Evaluation of endolaser thermoablation of the small saphenous vein under local anesthesia

Resumo Contexto Na insuficiência venosa crônica (IVC), a veia safena parva (VSP) é afetada em 15% dos casos. A cirurgia convencional é a técnica padrão para o tratamento da insuficiência da VSP, sendo a lesão no nervo sural uma complicação bastante temida. O tratamento de termoablação com endolaser tende a ser um método cirúrgico que diminui complicações da terapia cirúrgica da IVC. Objetivos Avaliar os pacientes com IVC submetidos à terapia por endolaser da VSP ao menos 30 dias após o procedimento. Métodos Foram analisados 54 membros inferiores de 46 pacientes submetidos à terapia por endolaser 1470 nm, sob anestesia local, para o tratamento da IVC em um hospital terciário. Os pacientes foram avaliados no período pré-operatório, intraoperatório e pós-operatório de 30 dias, através da clínica, exame físico e achados ecográficos. Resultados Nos 54 membros inferiores submetidos ao tratamento, comparando-se o período pré-operatório e o 30º dia pós-operatório, houve diferença significativa (p < 0,003) na redução do diâmetro da VSP tratada (6,37 mm pré-operatório e 5,15 mm no 30º dia pós-operatório) (IC95% 4,58-5,72) e na melhora do escore de gravidade clínica venosa (VCSS) (média de 8,02 pré-operatório e 6,11 no 30º dia pós-operatório) (IC95% 5,01-7,21) (p < 0,02). Complicações pós-operatórias, como parestesia e flebite, estiveram presentes e foram diagnosticadas em cinco e três pacientes, respectivamente, sem significar alteração na qualidade de vida e nas atividades de rotina. Conclusões A técnica de termoablação com laser da VSP mostrou-se segura e eficaz na redução dos sintomas clínicos e na melhora da qualidade de vida.

Abstract Background The small saphenous vein (SSV) is affected in 15% of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) cases. Conventional surgery is the standard technique for treatment of SSV insufficiency, but sural nerve injury is a complication of great concern. Endovenous laser ablation is a surgical technique for treatment of CVI that is considered likely to reduce morbidity and mortality. Objectives To evaluate patients with CVI undergoing endovenous laser ablation of the SSV at least 30 days after the procedure. Methods We analyzed 54 lower extremities in 46 patients scheduled for 1470-nm endovenous laser ablation under local anesthesia to treat CVI in a tertiary hospital. Patients were evaluated preoperatively, intraoperatively, and postoperatively over 30 days with clinical examination, physical examination, and ultrasound. Results In the 54 lower extremities treated, there was a significant difference (p < 0.003) in terms of reduction in the diameter of treated veins (6.37 mm preoperatively and 5.15 mm on the 30th postoperative day) and improvement in the venous clinical severity score (VCSS) (means of 8.02 preoperative and 6.11 on the 30th postoperative day) (95%CI, 5.01—7.21) (p < 0.02). Postoperative complications such as paresthesia and phlebitis were present and diagnosed in 5 and 3 patients, respectively, but did not affect their quality of life or routine activities. Conclusions Intravenous laser ablation of the SSV proved to be safe and effective for reducing clinical symptoms and improving quality of life.

Eficácia dos exercícios terapêuticos na qualidade de vida de pacientes com insuficiência venosa crônica: uma revisão sistemática / Effectiveness of therapeutic exercises for improving the quality of life of patients with chronic venous insufficiency: a systematic review

Resumo Os principais sinais e sintomas da insuficiência venosa crônica são dor, edema, varizes e alterações teciduais, condições que comprometem a funcionalidade e qualidade de vida. Visando amenizar esses prejuízos, o manejo da doença envolve uma ampla modalidade de intervenções; entre elas, o exercício terapêutico. Esta pesquisa apresenta as evidências existentes sobre a efetividade dos exercícios terapêuticos na qualidade de vida, dor e funcionalidade da insuficiência venosa crônica. Efetuou-se uma busca nas bases de dados CENTRAL, CINAHL, LILACS, MEDLINE, PEDro, SciELO, Science Direct, Scopus e Web of Science. Dos 2.961 resultados, quatro atenderam aos critérios de elegibilidade. Desses, apenas um estudo mostrou benefícios dos exercícios para melhora da qualidade de vida e redução da dor. Os demais apresentaram baixa qualidade metodológica. Portanto, as evidências existentes são insuficientes para indicar ou contraindicar os exercícios terapêuticos para melhoria da qualidade de vida, dor e funcionalidade em pacientes com insuficiência venosa crônica.

Abstract The main signs and symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency are pain, edema, varicose veins, and tissue changes; conditions that compromise functionality and quality of life. Management of the disease aims to mitigate these losses and involves a wide range of interventions, one of which is therapeutic exercise. This article presents the existing evidence on the effectiveness of therapeutic exercises for quality of life, pain, and functionality in chronic venous insufficiency. Searches were run on the databases CENTRAL, CINAHL, LILACS, MEDLINE, PEDro, SciELO, Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science. Four of the 2,961 results met the eligibility criteria. Only one of these studies showed benefits of exercise for improving quality of life and reducing pain. The others had low methodological quality. The existing evidence is therefore insufficient to indicate or contraindicate therapeutic exercises for improvement of quality of life, pain, and functionality in patients with chronic venous insufficiency.

Serie interventional ultrasound: Ultrasound-guided interventional radiology procedures on veins. / Serie de ecografía intervencionista: Intervencionismo venoso guiado por ecografía.

Although ultrasound-guided interventional procedures have resulted in great advances in many fields of medicine, this approach has revolutionized endovascular procedures. This paper aims to review the basic principles to develop a strategy to follow in ultrasound-guided treatments of varices in the lower limbs, as well as to provide a brief overview of the main endovenous techniques available nowadays. We divide these techniques into those that use catheters to occlude straight saphenous axes (thermal / non-thermal ablation) and other options, such as foam sclerotherapy, which can be used in all types of varices, even in those originating in the pelvis.

Tratamientos utilizados en los pacientes hospitalizados por úlceras flebostáticas / Treatments Used in Patients Hospitalized for Phlebostatic Ulcers

Introducción: Las úlceras flebostáticas son de difícil curación, no existe un tratamiento único y efectivo, por lo que hay que combinarlos en un mismo paciente. Objetivo: Identificar los tratamientos utilizados en los pacientes ingresados por úlceras flebostáticas y la relación entre el tiempo de estadía hospitalaria, el tratamiento recibido y el estado de las úlceras al egreso hospitalario. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo ambispectivo en 121 ingresos hospitalario con el diagnóstico de úlceras flebostáticas. Las variables de estudio fueron: tratamientos recibidos, estado de la lesión al egreso y estadía hospitalaria. Se asociaron las variables entre sí utilizando la prueba Ji-cuadrada no paramétrica para variables independientes. Resultados: En los 121 ingresos se realizó tratamiento convencional, el 93,4 por ciento recibió antibióticos; el 60,3 po ciento tratamiento compresivo; y quirúrgico en el 56,2 por ciento, con predominio del injerto libre de piel en 72,1 por ciento de estos tratamientos quirúrgicos. El 42,2 por ciento egresó con la lesión curada (tratamiento quirúrgico). Se encontraron asociaciones directas entre el tratamiento quirúrgico con la estadía hospitalaria (( 2 = 31,22; p= 0,0001), con la cura de la lesión (( 2 = 19,92; p= 0,0100) y con su estado al alta hospitalaria (( 2 = 36,07; p= 0,0001). Conclusiones: El tratamiento más empleado es el quirúrgico y dentro de estos, el autoinjerto dermo-epidérmico es el más utilizado, puesto que presenta los mejores resultados en cuanto a la curación de la lesión pero mayor estadía hospitalaria en los pacientes(AU)

Introduction: Phlebostatic ulcers are difficult to heal; there is no single and effective treatment, so several treatments must be combined in the same patient. Objective: To identify the treatments used in patients admitted for phlebostatic ulcers and the relationship between hospital stay, treatment received, condition of the ulcers at hospital discharge. Methods: Ambispective descriptive study of 121 hospital admissions with the diagnosis of phlebostatic ulcers. The study variables were treatments received, status of the injury at discharge, and hospital stay. The variables were associated with each other, using the non-parametric Chi-square test for independent variables. Results: The 121 admissions received conventional treatment. 93.4 percent received antibiotics; 60.3 percent, compression treatment; and 56.2 percent, surgical treatment, with predominance of free skin grafting in 72.1 percent of these surgical treatments. 42.2 percent was discharged with the lesion healed (by surgical treatment). Direct associations were found between surgical treatment with hospital stay (( 2 = 31.22; p = 0.0001), with the cure of the lesion (( 2 = 19.92; p=0.0100), and with the ulcer state at hospital discharge (( 2 =36.07; p= 0.0001). Conclusions: The most used treatment is the surgical one, specifically the dermo-epidermal autograft, which presented the best outcome regarding the healing of the injury, but a longer hospital stay for the patients(AU)

Report of a man with heterotopic ossification of the legs. / Osificación heterotópica de las piernas en un varón.

Heterotopic ossification is an uncommon disorder that consists of deposition of ectopic bone outside the extraskeletal tissues. In the skin, it can be primary, in association with genetic syndromes, or be secondary to different disorders. The latter include subcutaneous ossification of the legs in chronic venousinsufficiency, an infrequent and unrecognized complication. We report the case of a patient with subcutaneous ossification of both legs secondary to venous insufficiency and review the literature.

Protocolo eletrônico multiprofissional de coleta de dados clínicos e cirúrgicos em insuficiência venosa crônica / Multidisciplinary electronic protocol for collection of clinical and surgical data on chronic venous insufficiency

Contexto A utilização de protocolos eletrônicos para coleta e armazenamento de dados permite a realização de pesquisas clínicas de forma dinâmica, contribuindo com a evolução da medicina. Objetivos Criar uma base eletrônica de coleta de dados clínicos e cirúrgicos referente à insuficiência venosa crônica (IVC) para auxiliar na realização de estudos científicos. Métodos Inicialmente, criou-se uma base de dados de todas as doenças vasculares e, em seguida, de IVC, por meio da revisão bibliográfica de livros-texto e de artigos científicos relevantes. A informatização desses dados foi realizada pelo programa Sistema Integrado de Protocolos Eletrônicos (SINPE©) e avaliada por um projeto piloto. Resultados O protocolo eletrônico multiprofissional de doenças vasculares abrangeu os itens anamnese, exame físico, exames complementares, tipos de tratamento e evolução. Com isso, criou-se um protocolo mestre contendo 6.145 itens, e após gerou-se um protocolo específico de IVC totalizando 2.877 itens. A funcionalidade do protocolo foi testada com um projeto piloto, coletando-se dados de prontuários. Realizou-se o cruzamento das informações coletadas, que foram demonstradas na forma de gráficos. Conclusões Foi possível criar um protocolo eletrônico para coleta de dados clínicos e cirúrgicos referente à IVC. Esse protocolo foi incorporado ao SINPE©, facilitando imensamente a realização de pesquisas científicas nessa área

Background Use of electronic protocols for data collection and storage enables clinical research to be conducted dynamically, contributing to medical advances. Objectives To create an electronic data base for collection of clinical and surgical data on chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), to facilitate production of scientific studies. Methods Initially, a database was constructed by means of a bibliographic review of text books and relevant scientific articles for all vascular diseases and then a database on CVI was extracted. These data were computerized using the Integrated Electronic Protocols System (SINPE©) and then assessed in a pilot project. Results The multidisciplinary electronic protocol for vascular diseases covered the following items: history taking, physical examination, work-up tests, types of treatment, and progression. Using these items, a master protocol was created containing 6,145 items, and then a CVI-specific protocol containing 2,877 items was compiled. The protocol's functionality was tested in a pilot project, collecting data from medical records. The information collected was analyzed and illustrated graphically. Conclusions It proved possible to create an electronic protocol for collection of clinical and surgical data on CVI. The protocol was incorporated into the SINPE©, greatly facilitating production of scientific research in the area

Caracterización de los pacientes hospitalizados por úlceras flebostáticas / Characterization of the patients hospitalized due to phlebostatic ulcers

Introducción: Las úlceras en los miembros inferiores se relacionan desde los tiempos antiguos con las venas varicosas; es aceptado que dichas úlceras son una enfermedad frecuente y un grave problema de salud pública en todo el mundo y que la gran mayoría es el resultado de una insuficiencia venosa crónica. Objetivo: Caracterizar a los a los pacientes hospitalizados por úlceras flebostáticas. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio ambispectivo en 81 pacientes ingresados con el diagnóstico de úlceras flebostáticas. Las variables de estudio fueron: edad, sexo, cantidad de ingresos y estadía hospitalaria. Resultados: Se encontró un predominio del sexo femenino y de los mayores de 60 años en los 121 ingresos realizados. El 72,8 por ciento ingresó una sola vez y el 18,2 por ciento en más de una ocasión. La estadía hospitalaria fue de más de 21 días en el 55,4 por ciento. Conclusiones: Los pacientes hospitalizados con úlceras flebostáticas son predominantemente adultos mayores del sexo femenino, presentan una baja frecuencia de reingresos y una estadía hospitalaria prolongada(AU)

Introduction: The ulcers in the lower limbs are related from the old times with the varicose veins; it is accepted that the same ones are a frequent illness and a serious problem of public health in the world, and the great majority is the result of chronic venous insufficiency. Objective: To characterize the patients hospitalized due to phlebostatic ulcers. Methods: It was carried out an ambispective study in 81 patients admitted with the diagnosis of phlebostatic ulcers. The study variables were: age, sex, quantity of hospital admissions and hospital stay. Results: It was predominant in the 121 of the hospital admission: the female sex and people older than 60 years. 72.8 percent of the patients were admitted one time and 18.2 percent in more than one occasion. The hospital demurrage was of more than 21 days in 55.4 percent of the cases. Conclusions: The patients hospitalized due to phlebostatic ulcers are predominantly female elder people. It was possible to characterize the patients hospitalized with a low frequency of hospital re-admission and hospital demurrage(AU)

Experiencia de trabajo en cirugía vascular en Ecuador / Experiences working in vascular surgeries in Ecuador

Introducción: Las enfermedades vasculares periféricas comprenden un variado número de entidades nosológicas que afectan a los sistema arterial (excluidos los vasos del corazón, e intracraneales) y venolinfáticos del organismo. Objetivo: Describir las características de los pacientes que necesitaron ser atendidos por un cirujano vascular por presentar algún tipo de enfermedad vascular periférica. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo realizado en el total de pacientes atendidos por consulta externa y hospitalizados en el Servicio de Cirugía Vascular del Instituto Ecuatoriano de Seguridad Social; Hospital Manuel Ignacio Montero Valdivieso. El período de estudio fue de dos años (septiembre de 2014 a octubre de 2016). Se tuvieron en cuenta las siguientes enfermedades vasculares periféricas: enfermedades vasculares periféricas, insuficiencia venosa crónica, pie diabético, trombosis venosa profunda y trombosis arterial aguda Los resultados se expresaron en trabajo con las frecuencias absolutas y relativas. Resultados: La insuficiencia venosa crónica fue la causa más frecuente de hospitalización y consulta externa. Se encontró un predominio del sexo femenino. La úlcera del pie diabético se ubicó en orden decreciente de frecuencia entre las enfermedades consideradas. El desbridamiento quirúrgico o limpieza quirúrgica fue el procedimiento más empleado. La amputación mayor se realizó en todos los pacientes que tuvieron una trombosis arterial aguda de extremidades inferiores. Conclusiones: Se describen las características de los pacientes atendidos por el cirujano vascular en Ecuador, así como las enfermedades vasculares periféricas más frecuentes atendidas que son motivo de consulta externa y de hospitalización(AU)

Introduction: Peripheral vascular diseases include a varied number of nosologic entities that affect the arterial (excluding heart and intracranial vessels) and venolymphatic systems of the organism. Objective: To characterize patients who needed to be treated by a vascular surgeon after presenting some type of peripheral vascular disease. Method: A descriptive and prospective study was carried out in all the patients treated by external consultation and to the patients hospitalized in the service of Vascular surgery of the Ecuadorian Institute of Social Security and Manuel Ignacio Montero Valdivieso Hospital. The study lasted two years ( from September 2014 to October 2016). The following peripheral vascular diseases were taken into account: peripheral vascular diseases, chronic venous insufficiency, diabetic foot, deep-vein thrombosis and acute arterial thrombosis. The results were expressed in this paper with absolute and relative frequencies. Results: Chronic venous failure was the most frequent cause of hospitalization and outpatient consultation. A prevalence of female sex was found. The diabetic foot ulcer was observed in a decreasing order of frequency. Surgical debridement and/or surgical cleaning were the most used procedures. Major amputations were performed in all patients who had an acute arterial thrombosis of the lower limbs. Conclusions: It was possible to characterize the patients treated by the vascular surgeon in Ecuador, as well as the most frequent peripheral vascular diseases attended that needed outpatient consultation and hospitalization(AU)

Epidemiología de los desórdenes venosos crónicos y factores asociados en amerindios nativos embera-chamí, Antioquia / Epidemiology of chronic venous disorders and associated factors in embera-chami native amerindians, Antioquia / Epidemiologia das doenças venosas crônicas e fatores associados em ameríndios nativos embera-chamí, Antioquia

Resumen Objetivo: Analizar la prevalencia de los desórdenes venosos crónicos (dvc) en los embera-chamí de Cristianía (Karmata Rua), en el suroeste de Antioquia, y conocer sus posibles factores asociados (fa). Metodología: Estudio de corte de una muestra aleatoria de 488 sujetos. El diagnóstico se realizó mediante ecoduplex venoso. Se recolectó información sobre fa sociodemográficos, comportamentales y antropométricos. Los fa más relevantes se seleccionaron por regresión logística binaria múltiple. Resultados: La prevalencia de várices fue del 27,5 % y la de insuficiencia venosa crónica (ivc) del 0,8 %. Hubo compromiso de segmentos anatómicos superficiales en el 34,8 % de los individuos. La edad fue el fa más importante, con Odds Ratio (or) entre 3,33 y 6,30 según el tipo de dvc (excepto C1). El sexo femenino, la paridad, la grasa en el muslo y pierna y la talla alta se asociaron a telangiectasias. La edad, la grasa abdominal y la forma de la pierna fueron fa de várices. A las venas superficiales, en ambos sexos, se asociaron la edad y la grasa abdominal y, en mujeres, también los antecedentes familiares de várices. A las profundas y perforantes se asociaron la edad y la depleción de grasa periférica. Conclusiones: El patrón de baja prevalencia de los dvc en embera-chamí puede ser consecuencia de los estilos de vida relacionados con la actividad física diaria y las diferencias genéticas compartidas con amerindios. En los programas de atención en salud diferencial deberían considerarse los desórdenes profundos y perforantes respecto a mestizos.

Abstract Objective: To analyze the prevalence of chronic venous disorders (CVD) in the embera-chamí from Cristianía (Karmata Rua), in the southwest of Antioquia, and to study possible associated factors (AF). Methodology: A cross sectional study of a random sample of 488 subjects. The diagnosis was performed through Doppler ultrasonography. Information about sociodemographic, behavioral and anthropometric AFs was collected. The most relevant AFs were selected through multiple binary logistic regression. Results: The prevalence of varicose veins was 27.5% and that of chronic venous insufficiency (cvi) was 0.8%. Superficial anatomical segments were compromised in 34.8% of individuals. Age was the most important AF, with an Odds Ratio (OR) between 3.33 and 6.30 according to the type of cvd. Being a female, parity, fat in the thigh/leg and large size were associated with telangiectasias. Age, abdominal fat and leg shape were AF of varicose veins. Superficial veins in both sexes were associated with age and abdominal fat and in women, also with a family background of varicose veins. Deep and perforator veins were associated with age and peripheral fat depletion. Conclusions: The low prevalence pattern of CVDs in embera-chamí may be a consequence of lifestyles involving daily physical activity and genetic differences shared with Amerindians. Deep and perforating disorders should be considered in differential health care programs in relation to mestizos.

Resumo Objetivo: Analisar a prevalência de doenças venosas crônicas (dvc) na Embera-Chami Christiania (KarmataRua), no sudoeste do estado de Antioquia, e conhecer seus fatores associados (AF). Metodologia: Um estudo de coorte de uma amostra aleatória de 488 indivíduos. O diagnóstico foi feito por ecoduplex venoso. Informações sobre FA sócio demográficas, comportamentais e antropométricas foram coletadas. Os FAs mais relevantes foram selecionados para múltipla regressão logística binária. Resultados: A prevalência de varizes foi de 27,5% e a de insuficiência venosa crônica (ivc) foi de 0,8%. Houve comprometimento dos segmentos anatômicos superficiais em 34,8% dos indivíduos. A idade foi a FA mais importante, com Odds Ratio (OR) entre 3,33 e 6,30 de acordo com o tipo de dvc. Sexo feminino, paridade, gordura na coxa e perna e altura foram associados a telangiectasias. Idade, gordura abdominal e formato de perna foram FA de varizes. Nas veias superficiais, em ambos os sexos, idade e gordura abdominal estavam associadas e, nas mulheres, também a história familiar de varizes. Às profundas e perfurantes foram associadas a idade e depleção de gordura periférica. Conclusões: O padrão de baixa prevalência de DVC em embera-chamí pode ser uma consequência de estilos de vida relacionados à atividade física diária e diferenças genéticas compartilhadas com ameríndios. Em programas diferenciais de atenção à saúde, distúrbios profundos e perfurantes devem ser considerados em relação aos mestiços.

Úlceras flebostáticas / Phlebostatic ulcers

Las úlceras flebostáticas son las más frecuentes en los miembros inferiores y constituyen una de las complicaciones más graves de la insuficiencia venosa crónica. Se caracterizan por ser invalidantes y tener alta repercusión socioeconómica. El objetivo de este trabajo es revisar los aspectos más relevantes de la epidemiología, la clínica y del tratamiento de las úlceras flebostáticas. Para la exploración bibliográfica se realizaron búsquedas de artículos en las bases de datos informatizadas on-line Medline, Cochrane Library, artículos publicados en páginas web, revistas líderes en la publicación de estudios sobre úlceras flebostáticas, el Consenso Latinoamericano sobre Úlceras Venosas, las Guías Prácticas de la Sociedad de Cirugía Vascular y el Fórum Americano de Flebología. Las úlceras flebostáticas son las más frecuentes de los miembros inferiores, más comunes en el sexo femenino y en mayores de 60 años. Repercuten en la calidad de vida del paciente y los gastos sanitarios. No existe tratamiento único para ellas, por lo que en un paciente se usan varios tratamientos o su combinación. Las evidencias científicas apuntan hacia las terapias compresivas como de primera línea. A pesar de los avances tecnológicos realizados en el tratamiento de estas úlceras, así como la gran variedad de los mismos, donde se complementan los más modernos con los ya existentes, las úlceras flebostáticas son de difícil curación y de alta recurrencia(AU)

The phlebostatic ulcers are the most common in the lower limbs and represent the most serious complications of the chronic venous insufficiency. These ulcers are disabling and have a significant social and economic impact. The objective of this paper was to review the most outstanding aspects of the epidemiology, the clinical manifestations and the treatment of the phlebostatic ulcers. The literature search was made in Medline, Cochrane Library, articles published in different web pages, leading journals in the publication of studies about phlebostatic ulcers, Latin American Consensus on Venous Ulcers, Practice Guidelines of the Society for Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum. The phlebostatic ulcers are the most frequent in the lower limbs, mainly in females and in patients older than 60 years. They have an impact on the quality of life of patients and on health expenditures. There is not a unique treatment for this type of ulcers, so several therapies or a combination of them is used. The scientific evidences point to the compressive therapies as the first-line method. Despite the technological advances in the treatment of these ulcers, and their great variety, in which the already existing ones and the latest ones complement each other, these ulcers are difficult to be cured and highly recurrent(AU)

Úlceras flebostáticas / Phlebostatic ulcers

Las úlceras flebostáticas son las más frecuentes en los miembros inferiores y constituyen una de las complicaciones más graves de la insuficiencia venosa crónica. Se caracterizan por ser invalidantes y tener alta repercusión socioeconómica. El objetivo de este trabajo es revisar los aspectos más relevantes de la epidemiología, la clínica y del tratamiento de las úlceras flebostáticas. Para la exploración bibliográfica se realizaron búsquedas de artículos en las bases de datos informatizadas on-line Medline, Cochrane Library, artículos publicados en páginas web, revistas líderes en la publicación de estudios sobre úlceras flebostáticas, el Consenso Latinoamericano sobre Úlceras Venosas, las Guías Prácticas de la Sociedad de Cirugía Vascular y el Fórum Americano de Flebología. Las úlceras flebostáticas son las más frecuentes de los miembros inferiores, más comunes en el sexo femenino y en mayores de 60 años. Repercuten en la calidad de vida del paciente y los gastos sanitarios. No existe tratamiento único para ellas, por lo que en un paciente se usan varios tratamientos o su combinación. Las evidencias científicas apuntan hacia las terapias compresivas como de primera línea. A pesar de los avances tecnológicos realizados en el tratamiento de estas úlceras, así como la gran variedad de los mismos, donde se complementan los más modernos con los ya existentes, las úlceras flebostáticas son de difícil curación y de alta recurrencia(AU)

The phlebostatic ulcers are the most common in the lower limbs and represent the most serious complications of the chronic venous insufficiency. These ulcers are disabling and have a significant social and economic impact. The objective of this paper was to review the most outstanding aspects of the epidemiology, the clinical manifestations and the treatment of the phlebostatic ulcers. The literature search was made in Medline, Cochrane Library, articles published in different web pages, leading journals in the publication of studies about phlebostatic ulcers, Latin American Consensus on Venous Ulcers, Practice Guidelines of the Society for Vascular Surgery and the American Venous Forum. The phlebostatic ulcers are the most frequent in the lower limbs, mainly in females and in patients older than 60 years. They have an impact on the quality of life of patients and on health expenditures. There is not a unique treatment for this type of ulcers, so several therapies or a combination of them is used. The scientific evidences point to the compressive therapies as the first-line method. Despite the technological advances in the treatment of these ulcers, and their great variety, in which the already existing ones and the latest ones complement each other, these ulcers are difficult to be cured and highly recurrent(AU)

Evolución clínica y ultrasonográfica del síndrome postrombótico en su primer año de evolución / Clinical and ultrasonographic progression of posthrombotic syndrome in its first year

Introduccións: La insuficiencia venosa crónica es característica principal del síndrome postrombótico donde el estasis venoso es típico. Objetivos: Describir la evolución clínica y ultrasonográfica del síndrome postrombótico durante su primer año. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo prospectivo en 20 hombres (55,6 por ciento) y 16 mujeres (44,4 por ciento) con una edad promedio de 55,8 ± 14,2 años (IC95 por ciento : 41,6 ­ 70 años), ingresados en el Servicio de Flebolinfología del Instituto Nacional de Angiología y Cirugía Vascular con el diagnóstico de trombosis venosa profunda de los miembros inferiores. Las variables estudiadas fueron: tipos de síntomas clínicos, tipo de evolución ultrasonográfica por ecodoppler, estadios clínicos del síndrome postrombótico, tiempo y porcentaje de recanalización. Resultadoss: A los seis meses de evolución predominó la sintomatología severa (47,2 por ciento); en el sector fémoro­poplíteo la clasificación de buena. Al año, fue más frecuente la clasificación de moderada (52,8 por ciento) y de muy buena en el sector poplíteo; el edema pretibial fue el signo que predominó. En los sectores ocluidos fémoro-poplíteo el porcentaje de recanalización promedio aumentó al año y fue superior (p < 0,05) al obtenido a los seis meses. Se encontró asociación significativa entre el porcentaje de recanalización y el período de evolución (X2= 41,41; p= 0,0000); y entre el estadio clínico y el porcentaje de recanalización (X2= 32,95; p= 0,0000). Conclusións: durante el primer año de presentarse el síndrome postrombótico pueden ocurrir cambios clínicos y evolución favorable en la recanalización del sistema venoso profundo(AU)

Introduction: Chronic venous insufficiency is the main characteristic of the posthrombotic syndrome where the vein stasis is typical. Objective: to describe the clinical and ultrasonographic progression of the post-thrombotic syndrome in its first year. Methods: A descriptive prospective study was conducted in 20 men (55.6 percent) and 16 women (44.4 percent), with average age of 55.8 ± 14.2 years (IC95 percent : 41.6 ­ 70 years) diagnosed as deep venous thrombosis of the lower limb patients and hospitalized in the phlebolymphology service of the National Institute of Angiology and Vascular Surgery. The studied variables were types of clinical symptoms, type of ultrasonographic progression using Echodoppler device, clinical stagings of the posthrombotic syndrome, and time and percentage of re-canalization. Results: After six months of progression, severe symptoms predominated (47.2 percent); and in the femoral-popliteal area the classification was good. After a year, the moderate classification was more frequent (52.8 percent) and extremely good in the popliteal sector; the pretibial edema was the predominant sign (50 percent). In the occluded popliteal-femoral sector, the percentage of average re-canalization increased after a year, being higher (p< 0.05) than that of six months. A significant association was found between the percentage of re-channeling and the period of progression (X2= 41.41; p= 0.0000); and between the clinical staging and the percentage of re-canalization (X2= 32.95, p= 0.0000). Conclusions: During the first year of existence of the posthrombotic syndrome, clinical changes and favorable progression may occur in the re-canalization of the deep venous system(AU)