VIII MEETING OF THE EUROPEAN CHIVA ASSOCIATION

20-22 October 2004

Santa Trada di Cannitello

Reggio Calabria, Italy

It is hard to imagine a scientific meeting where one would feel more at ease. Surrounded by friends, and in a society whose tolerance was manifested in the use of the various languages of those attending. Dr. Carolina Nasso organized an excellent meeting in a marvelous natural setting.

From the scientific viewpoint, important advances have been made in the establishment of clear terminology, as was agreed upon in the Berlin 2004 meeting (1); it is now being used correctly by all the groups.

In addition, the subjects of debate during these days have contributed a bit more toward solving the problems of strategy: Valve removal in the internal saphenous in venous shunts in which drainage is established through the R3 perforating is a considerable step ahead for achieving a stable system. This approach would be suitable for approximately 50% of type 3 shunts. The resulting GSV drainage is about 90% though R2 perforating.

With regard to pelvic shunts, we are still waiting for the results from larger series with a longer follow-up. The anatomical and pathophysiologic review was instructive. It is clear that sclerosing or embolizing therapy for pelvic congestion does not provide a solution for varicose veins of the lower limbs of the same origin. One possible treatment approach, suggested in relation to the inguinal and perineal pelvic scape points (Points I and P) in which the triggering factor is pregnancy, consist of surgery for the Valsalva-positive veins and sclerosing treatment for the Valsalva-negative veins. Point G (pelvic varicose veins draining through the sciatic vein) whose origin might be venous thrombosis or anomalous embryonic development, are harder to resolve.

Dr. Oriol Parés updated the data from the clinical trial comparing Stripping versus CHIVA. In a sample of 500 patients completed at three years, there are statistically significant results in favor of CHIVA.

The topics of discussion selected for the 2006 meeting include anatomic variation in popliteal fossa varicose veins and the post-phlebitic syndrome.

Finally, the locations of the next three meetings were chosen: 2006 in Galicia (Spain), which will be organized by Dr. Eugenio Senín; 2008 in France, organized by Dr. Claude Franceschi and 2010 in Puerto Madryn (Argentina), organized by Dr. Andrés Cupelián.

As was expected, Dr. Jorge Juan was re-elected President of the association, and together with him, Dr. Claude Franceschi (President of Honor), Dr. Laura Giorio (Vice President) and Dr. Oriol Parés (Secretary) will continue in command of the ship.

I personally find that the presence of young vascular surgeons at the meeting was especially gratifying, as they represent a promising future for our group.

We are enthusiastically preparing the next meeting.

See you in Galicia!

JM Escribano

(1) Haemodynamic surgery for varicose veins: Rationale, and anatomic and haemodynamic basis. Criado E, Juan J, Fontcuberta J, Escribano JM. Phlebology 2003; 18: 158-166