Pneumatic phlebography: a possible new technique for the assessment of recurrent varicose veins.

Initial experience with a new technique, using an inflatable compression device during ascending phlebography, is described. This method is compared with standard varicography in a small series of patients with recurrent varicose veins. In this pilot study, 13 patients had 17 limbs examined by the new method and 14 limbs by varicography. Below knee perforator incompetence was demonstrated directly in all limbs by 'pneumatic phlebography'. Short-saphenous vein and mid-thigh perforator incompetence were also more frequently demonstrated. The two tests are comparable at showing recurrent or persistent connection at the groin (13 limbs, overall). With modifications of the pressure device, pneumatic phlebography may prove to be an important method of assessing recurrent varicose veins.