What Is Varicose Veins of the Lower Limbs?

Varicose veins of the lower extremities are a common condition in general surgery, primarily characterized by tortuous dilation of the superficial veins of the legs. In severe cases, the affected veins may appear “worm-like.” Early-stage disease may manifest only as cosmetic changes or a sensation of soreness and heaviness in the calves after prolonged standing. In advanced stages, various complications may develop, including leg edema, skin hyperpigmentation, lipodermatosclerosis, stasis dermatitis, chronic eczema, chronic non-healing ulcers (commonly referred to as “chronic leg ulcers”), and even rupture and bleeding of the varicose veins.

Among cases of lower-extremity varicose veins, great saphenous vein varicosities account for over 90%. Consequently, many individuals—and even numerous hospitals—commonly refer to lower-extremity varicose veins simply as “great saphenous vein varicosities.”