Description
Chronic Venous Insufficiency & Varicose Veins: What Every Young Doctor Should Know" is a focused session designed to bridge the gap between textbook knowledge and real-world vascular care. It will explore the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, and progression of varicose veins, along with practical diagnostic tools and treatment options — from conservative therapy to surgical interventions. The session emphasizes red-flag symptoms, patient counseling, and when to refer, making it highly relevant for early-career clinicians. Through a case-based lens, budding doctors will gain clarity on managing this common yet often misunderstood condition.
Summary Listen
- Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when veins don't efficiently return blood to the heart, causing blood pooling and hypertension in the lower limbs. Common symptoms include leg heaviness and tiredness, varicose veins, and skin changes like pigmentation, edema, and eczema. In severe cases, it can lead to ulceration or vein inflammation (thrombophlebitis).
- Varicose veins, a manifestation of chronic venous insufficiency, result from faulty valves within the veins. These valves should prevent backflow, but when they fail, blood pools. Varicose veins can be inherited (primary) or caused by deep vein blockages (secondary).
- Untreated varicose veins can lead to skin changes, like pigmentation and drying, that can narrow the leg's lower end, forming an inverted champagne bottle leg. The deteriorated skin can ulcerate, causing infections and systemic sepsis.
- Venus ulcers often appear in the gaiter area around the ankles, and patients usually have palpable pulses. In contrast, arterial ulcers often occur on the foot, heel, or toes, where pulses are weak or absent, and the foot is often cold.
- Lipodermatosclerosis is a condition involving inflammation and scarring in the lower legs due to chronic venous hypertension. It is a combination of pigmentation, edema, eczema and sclerosis.
- When patients present with leg swelling, central causes like heart, kidney, liver, or thyroid issues should be considered, as they cause swelling throughout the body. If the swelling is localized to the legs, venous insufficiency and lymphedema are the primary considerations, with the possibility of lipedema also contributing.
Sample Certificate
About the Speakers
Dr. Riza Ibrahim
Consultant Vascular and Endovascular Surgeon, Genesis Healthcare Centre, Dubai
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