Sapheno-Femoral Valve Insufficiency in Varicose Veins of the Lower Limb

Abstract
SFV [sapheno-femoral valve] competence was investigated in 100 patients (189 legs) suffering from varicose veins. The incidence depended on the method used. The simpler clinical methods such as the cough test, percussion test, Trendelenburg test, revealed SFV insufficiency to be between 15.4-21.6%. Using the Doppler ultrasound, the incidence increased to 47.6%; by using the MABP [modified bolus ascending phlebography], SFV insufficiency was increased in 20%. The SFV competence was indicated as playing an important role in the pathogenesis of varicose veins. The phlebologist''s decision to carry out high ligation and stripping of the saphena magna in patients with varicose veins should be considered only for those cases where the extent of incompetence was established beyond doubt.