[Varicose veins of the lower extremities].

Overview Varicose veins of the lower extremities are found in the superficial venous system which includes the great saphenous vein (GSV) and the small saphenous vein (SSV), and their tributaries. One-way valves are present in the superficial venous system. These valves prevent backward flow of blood within the vein (reflux) and keep the blood moving toward the heart. The condition of improperly functioning valves and the resultant valve reflux (incompetence) in the superficial venous system is known as chronic venous insufficiency. Varicose veins are the most frequent manifestation of chronic venous insufficiency. (Tassiopoulos et al., 2000; Nicolaides AN, 2000) Approximately 25% of the population has lower extremity varicose veins, and age is the only consistently identified risk factor. The incidence of varicose veins increases linearly with age. Varicose veins have long been considered a cosmetic problem however varicose veins are frequently the cause of disability, loss of limb and loss of life.