Diagnosis, Management, and Treatment of Chronic Venous Insufficiency in the Context of Primary Health Care

Chronic venous disease is a very common condition, the main causes of which are venous reflux and obstruction.
Given that it is often associated with major complications and sequelae, which in many cases can be disabling—including venous ulcers of the lower limbs—early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential.
The most common clinical manifestations of CVI are a marked tendency toward edema and a bothersome sensation of “heavy legs,” as well as pruritus, pain, and nocturnal cramps.
With regard to diagnosis, color-flow duplex ultrasound is considered the “gold standard” for nearly all issues associated with chronic venous disease.
Chronic venous disease can be managed through a variety of therapeutic options, including sclerotherapy and surgical and endovenous procedures. Compression therapy is a fundamental principle of treatment at all stages of the disease.

Contents

1. Introduction
2. Diagnosis of Chronic Venous Insufficiency
3. Medical History and Clinical Examination
4. Investigations in Patients with Suspected CVI
5. Invasive Investigations
6. Non-Invasive Investigations
7. Differential Diagnosis
8. Diagnostic Strategy
9. Management and Treatment of CVI
10. Conclusions