Current evidence on the safety and efficacy of lower limb deep vein valve reconstruction for chronic deep venous incompetence does not appear adequate for this procedure to be used without special arrangements for consent and for audit or research.
Clinicians wishing to use lower limb deep vein valve reconstruction for chronic deep venous incompetence should take the following actions.
Inform the clinical governance leads in their Trusts.
Ensure that patients understand the uncertainty about the procedure's safety and efficacy and provide them with clear written information. In addition, use of the NICE's information for the public is recommended.
Audit and review clinical outcomes of all patients having lower limb deep vein valve reconstruction for chronic deep venous incompetence (see section 3.1).
Further research on the procedure would be useful. NICE may review the procedure upon publication of further evidence.