Chronic Venous Insufficiency Evaluation and Medical Management

This review will focus on comprehensive evaluation of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), nuances in diagnostic testing and advances in medical therapies to provide improvement in patient specific outcomes.

Chronic venous insufficiency of the lower extremities represents an often underrecognized source of morbidity. Comprehensive evaluation focuses on personal and family history of deep vein thrombosis and varicose veins. Diagnostic testing is initially with a thorough duplex ultrasound, but advanced imaging with CT scan and MRV may be indicated in selected patients who might benefit from more invasive intervention. Compression therapy, wraps and garments, remains the mainstay of conservative therapy for patients with CVI. In addition, there is renewed interest in lifestyle and nutritional supplements, most commonly micronized purified flavanoid fraction (MPFF), in relieving symptoms and preventing morbidity.

A holistic approach to patients with CVI provides the best opportunity for enduring improvement in quality of life.