A case of recurrent varicose veins due to the multiple fistulas from superficial femoral artery

Abstract

Recurrent varicose veins are considered to be caused by the recurrence of reflux but rarely may be secondary to other pathologies. A 39-year-old man complained of right lower leg skin pigmentation, pain and fatigue for several years. Duplex ultrasound revealed that the great saphenous vein diameter at the saphenofemoral junction level was 7.7 cm, and at the knee medial level was 14.4 cm. The reflux time at the proximal great saphenousvein level was 1.85 s. Endovenous laser ablation for dilated and refluxed great saphenous vein was performed. However, 1 year later, the symptoms recurred. Duplex ultrasound suspected abnormal arterial flow from the right superficial femoral artery to the recanalized segment of previously ablated great saphenous vein and anterior accessory saphenous vein. One month later, despite the successful re-endovenous laser ablation, the symptoms recurred. Computed tomography angiography showed three fistulous vessels from superficial femoral artery to anterior accessory saphenous vein. Combined treatments with endovenous laser ablation and coil embolization was performed. Ultimately, the fistulas were obliterated and the patient remained free of symptoms. Varicose veins due to the fistulas from superficial femoral artery are rare and difficult to diagnose but can be entirely treated with the percutaneous approach.