SUBFASCIAL ENDOSCOPIC PERFORATOR VEIN SURGERY: THE FIRST REPORT FROM IRAN

Background: Chronic venous stasis ulcers of the leg are still a challenge in vascular surgery. Innovation of new surgical techniques using endoscopic instruments have ushered in a new era with less complications and better results. This study was designed to evaluate the safety and long-term outcomes of this technique for the first time in Iran. Methods: Subfascial endoscopic perforator vein surgery was performed on 10 legs in 8 patients who had signs of chronic venous insufficiency (between September 2001 and September 2003). Patients were followed up for a mean of period 12.5 months. Results: The operations were performed successfully in all patients. No serious complications occurred intraoperatively. There was no mortality or significant morbidity. Complete healing of skin ulcers was observed in 5 active and 2 healed ulcers in less than 12 weeks. There were 2 recurrences after 4 and 27 months, respectively. Conclusion: Subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery is a safe procedure for the treatment of venous stasis ulcers. Rapid ulcer healing can be expected in selected patients.