Evidence-based follow-up after varicose vein surgery

Objective: To determine the optimum timing and need for outpatient follow-up of patients after varicose vein operations. Methods: Ninety-six consecutive patients undergoing varicose vein operations were enrolled. Patients completed linear analogue scales to record pain, bruising and swelling on postoperative days I to 10, 12, 14, 21 and 28. Return to daily activities, visits to the general practitioner (GP) and outpatient review at 6 weeks were recorded. Results: Maximum scores were on day 2 for swelling, day 4 for bruising, and days I and 6 for pain. Median time to return to work was 14 days (range 1-42 days). During the postoperative period 29 patients visited their GP, 24 (83%) within 2 weeks of operation. Median length of outpatient consultation at 6 weeks was 5 min. Although 57 patients found the appointment reassuring, none required further treatment. Conclusions: Outpatient follow-up after varicose vein operations cannot be justified on clinical grounds. The majority of patients who have postoperative problems develop them within the first 2 weeks, coinciding with the peaks of pain, swelling and bruising, and these problems can be dealt with in the community.