Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study is to show the advantages and disadvantages of InvisiGrip vein stripper, new device for stripping of great saphenous vein comparing with conventional used stripping wire. Method: From June 2009 to March 2012, 51 patients with 68 limbs underwent great saphenous vein stripping by InvisiGrip vein stripper (group I). Duration of operation, bleeding amount during operation, subcutaneous hemorrhage and limb pain at 6 days after surgery was compared with those of 38 patients with 50 limbs from April 2007 to May 2009 (group C). Results: Duration of operation per limb of group I was significantly shorter than that of group C (76.8 ± 28.0 minutes vs. 42.3 ± 15.8 minutes, p<0.0001). Bleeding amount during operation of group I was not significantly different from that of group C (9.3 ± 13.9 ml vs 11.2 ± 17.1 ml). Subcutaneous hemorrhage was seen on 47 limbs (69.1%) of group I and 25 limbs (50.0%) of group C. On the contrary, limb pain was seen on 12 limbs (17.6%) of group I and 24 limbs (48.0%) of group C. Success rate of great saphenous vein stripping by InvisiGrip vein stripper was 93.2%. Conclusion: InvisiGrip vein stripper, as a safe and smart device for stripping of great saphnous vein by only one and small incision, may be the new alternative for operation of patients with varicose veins.
