In a few cases it can be difficult to be certain of the exact anatomy and sites of abnormal valves with a simple Outpatient examination. This is particularly likely to be the case when varicose veins have recurred following previous surgery or when varicose veins arise from a faulty valve behind the knee, where anatomy can be quite variable. A duplex scan is an Outpatient investigation, taking approximately 30 minutes per leg, performed with a sophisticated ultrasound scanner, capable of producing both visual images of veins and information on direction of blood flow within them. The majority of operations carried out for varicose veins are entirely straightforward and, particularly considering the large numbers performed, serious complications are uncommon. Nevertheless, no surgical procedure is completely free of risk and the possibility of complications should be borne in mind when considering the pros and cons of surgical treatment for varicose veins.
Anaesthetic complications are unusual because the length of surgery is usually relatively short.
Cardiac and respiratory complications can occur with any general anaesthetic and are certainly more common in the elderly and in those with pre-existing heart and chest problems. Abnormal reactions or allergies to anaesthetic drugs are uncommon and largely unpredictable. Bleeding is one of the more common complications encountered, since the operation deals directly with blood vessels. Major haemorrhage is uncommon but can occur if one of the main veins is damaged while disconnecting or stripping superficial connections. Small postoperative collections of blood can occur within the surgical wounds, occasionally requiring re-operation but usually settling without specific treatment.