The importance of uniform venous terminology in reports on varicose veins.
There is a need for a standardized consistent language in vascular surgery that allows easy flow of information and comparison of results among clinicians. Beginning with current nomenclature, a common language serves as a framework for more detailed efforts. Understanding the outcomes assessment tools available provides the opportunity for universal outcomes reporting. Data collected at widespread points can then be fairly compared, and common goals of therapy can be determined. Common outcomes that have demonstrated verifiable trends and reproducibility should be subjected to the rigors of evidence-based questioning. The resultant standards of care and expectations of therapy are then confidently presented for everyday practice and ongoing research.
Vasquez
Michael A
MA
Department of Surgery, State University of New York at Buffalo, The Venous Institute of Buffalo, North Tonawanda, NY 14120, USA. mvasquezmd@venousinstitute.com
Munschauer
Carolyn E
CE
D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine / Q000592:standards; D006305:Health Status Indicators; D006801:Humans; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care / Q000592:standards*; D019984:Quality Indicators, Health Care / Q000592:standards; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D009626:Terminology as Topic; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014648:Varicose Veins / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*; D014656:Vascular Surgical Procedures / Q000592:standards*