Evaluating and improving health-related quality of life in patients with varicose veins

Purpose: We set out to assess the new Aberdeen Varicose Veins Questionnaire (Aberdeen Questionnaire) for the properties necessary for a valid measure of health outcome, to determine quality of life of patients with varicose veins, and to determine the effect of surgery on quality of life. Methods: A prospective consecutive cohort of 137 patients undergoing varicose vein surgery completed the self-administered SF-36 and Aberdeen Questionnaire and 25 questions relating to the symptoms and concerns of patients with varicose veins. Follow-up was done by repeated questionnaires 6 weeks after surgery. The Aberdeen Questionnaire was assessed for reliability, validity, responsiveness, and practicality. Quality of life of patients with varicose veins was compared with an age- and sex-matched sample of the general population. Results: Reliability estimates for the 8 scales short-form health survey (SF-36) and the Aberdeen Questionnaire were all above 0.7 (Cronbach's alpha). The Aberdeen Questionnaire had a highly significant correlation (r = 0.74, P < .0001) with the patients' symptoms and concerns questionnaire, which is evidence of its validity. Patients with varicose veins score lower than United Kingdom norms (P < .001) in the physical domains of the SP-36, indicating worse health. After surgery, the SP-36 scores improved in all 8 domains of health, reaching significance in "Mental Health" (P < .05) and approaching significance in "General Health" (P = .066). The Health Transition Item of the SP-36 and the Aberdeen Questionnaire both showed a highly significant improvement in health (P < .001). Conclusion: The Aberdeen Questionnaire is a valid measure of quality of life for patients with varicose veins. Persons with varicose veins have a reduced quality of life compared with the general population, and this discrepancy is significantly improved at 6 weeks by operating on them.