Neovascularisation after surgery for recurrent saphenofemoral incompetence: Does surgical dissection technique matter?

Background: The effect of the type of surgery on neovascularisation in the groin is unknown. The aim of the present study was to compare three different surgical techniques used for recurrent saphenofemoral incompetence in view of their effect on neovascularisation in the groin at short- and long-term follow-up after surgery. Patients and methods: 36 consecutive patients undergoing surgery for recurrent saphenofemoral incompetence were randomised. 12 patients underwent sharp dissection with knife or scissors and excision and ligation of scar tissue using absorbable suture material; 12 had dissection with electrocoagulation and 12 dissection with ultrasound (Ultracision Harmonic Scalpel). Clinical outcome was assessed using the venous clinical severity score and venous disability score, and the saphenofemoral junction was evaluated by means of duplex sonography three months and seven years after the operation respectively. If neovascularisation was present, the maximal diameter of new refluxing veins in th...