[External valvuloplasty of the sapheno-femoral junction]

Authors describe the pathophysiologic premises, technique and results obtained, in over two years, in N. 40 external valvuloplasties of the sapheno-femoral junction, performed with the following main indications: sapheno-femoral reflux and U.S. evidence of normal valve leaflets in the terminal valves of the long saphenous vein. Dilatation of the terminal segment of the long saphenous vein is reduced with the application of an external synthetic prosthesis and valvular function is restored. Good results have been obtained in N. 35 cases (87.5%). A careful pre- and peroperative procedure is necessary in order to avoid failures.