Appropriate surgery on venous ulcers (Linton's operation) is an efficient therapeutic method. In 110 of these operations, rapid healing of the ulcer was achieved in 90% of cases, with 10% affected by necrosis and infection of the cutaneous incision. The result held without relapse for three years for 85% of the 52 patients who were able to be reviewed after this length of time. The operative technique has to adhere to two imperatives: a long incision up to the ulcer, and very exact skin closure. Ulcerous relapse, and ulcers failing to respond to routine treatment are the prime indications of surgery; indications can be extended to certain pre-ulcerous conditions.