Aim: The frequency of complications following an operation on varicose veins is rarely discussed in literature. Are there any criteria that enhance or reduce the risk of occurrence of a complication? Method: The conditions of 1094 patients who have been operated on their varicose veins under general anaesthesia between 1990 and 1999 are analyzed, retrospectively. Result: Infections, haematoma, wound healing disorders, injuries on nerves and lymphatic vessels occurred with 120 patients (11%). Complications due to pathological mechanisms of coagulation come up in 0.36% (2 thromboses, 2 embolisms). 5 times (0.46%) the anaesthesia next ta the spinal cord is mode responsible for complications. 74% of the complications are localized at the lower leg. Conclusion: The existence of a functional disorder of second and third degree favourises the risk of complication, also on operation of magna and parva on the some side and also the fact of a repeated operation in the groin. The more experienced the surgeon, the less ore complications to be expected. Thromboembolic events rarely occur, if so, as for the currently discussed patients it is practically always associated with on APC resistance.
