Complicaciones postoperatorias de la estrategia CHIVA para el tratamiento de la insuficiencia venosa crónica

Introduction The most commonly used technique for varicose vein surgery is saphenectomy, although haemodynamic surgery (CHIVA) has been becoming increasing popular in the last decade in our country, probably, due to its good postoperative recovery and fewer complications. Objective To describe and quantify postoperative complications of CHIVA technique in our experience as well as that reported in the literature. Methods Retrospective descriptive study of 269 limbs operated on by our group and analysis of 2,793 audited limbs described in the literature. Results The main complications in our patients were: 17 cases in 269 limbs (6.33 %), distributed as follows: 11 symptomatic saphenous vein thrombosis, two temporary paresthesias, two groin haematomas, one wound infection, and one headache after spinal anaesthesia. Complications reported in the literature: 208 cases in 2,793 limbs (7.44 %), distributed as follows: 82 symptomatic saphenous vein thrombosis, 70 neuritis and paresthesias, 25 minor skin infections, 9 haematomas, 7 groin infections, 6 lymphatic groin leakages, 4 deep vein thrombosis, and one groin haemorrhage. There is no mortality or major complications associated with this procedure. Conclusions CHIVA surgical approach to chronic venous insufficiency is accompanied by a rapid recovery and active life with a 7 % complication rate, which are mostly benign and do not hinder recovery. Symptomatic saphenous vein thrombosis is the most common complication after surgery for varicose veins using this technique.