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Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome |
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What is Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome? |
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| The Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome (KT) is a rare, congenital disorder in which patients usually have one hypertrophied leg, a port wine stain, and large varicose veins on the lateral aspect of the leg. |
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| Duplex ultrasound usually reveals huge varicose veins filled with blood under high pressure. Most have a normal deep system that provides this high pressure. |
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What are some of the Symptoms? |
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| Patients often have pain and swelling, and the clinical condition deteriorates to swollen leg and leg ulcers. This is the result of venous pump failure. The presence of arterio-venous malformations is also occasionally found. |
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Treating Klippel-Trenaunay Patients |
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| Because the Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome is a very diffuse disease, surgical correction is virtually impossible. We have treated many of these cases successfully. Our comprehensive treatment addresses the points of origin for reflux deep in the leg. The results have been quite encouraging, with almost all our patients enjoying reduced pain, swelling and other symptoms. We focus on the following aspects: |
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1. Proper evaluation of the Hemodynamics |
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Duplex ultrasound “mapping” documents the precise points of origin for the reflux. These are usually huge and permit large volumes of blood to flow down into the varicose veins. This map becomes our blueprint, helping us follow the patient’s progress. |
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2. Below-the-knee Isometric Compression Wrapping |
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Isometric compression is applied between the foot and knee only to significantly help the failing venous pump. Isometric compression wrapping is powerfully anti-inflammatory, and it eliminates dermatitis and swelling. Unfortunately, proper application of isometric compression bandages requires a great deal of experience. Initially, the bandages have to be changed every couple of days. Teaching patients how to do this takes time and practice. But the effort is well worth it. Patients usually remark that their legs feel lighter and stronger as soon as they begin walking. |
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3. Long-Term Management |
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| We have found that treating the roots of the problem effectively relieves the symptoms. We use ultrasound imaging to find and treat, then later to confirm that our objectives have been reached. We also use ultrasound after
one year to confirm that proper healing did occur. In the meantime, reduced swelling and discomfort are good clinical indicators. |
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The information found on this website is designed to support, not replace, the patient/physician relationship. Please contact us at 866-923-8346 to meet with a doctor.
The above information was last updated on 2/23/07 by Dr. Theodore King , M.D. on behalf of Vein Clinics of America (VCA). VCA is the largest medical group in the country dedicated exclusively to treating vein disease.
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