Investigation Into the Pathophysiology and Treatment of Varicose Veins

Chemical sclerotherapy is commonly used to treat varicose veins which affect superficial veins in the leg. Sclerotherapy is injected directly into veins where it causes damage to the vein wall. If sufficient damage occurs, the vein is transformed into a fibrous cord which does not re-open. This study will investigate the structural changes caused to the wall of veins following injection with sclerotherapy ex vivo. Vein samples will be obtained from the Whiteley Clinic in Guildford from patients undergoing phlebectomy operations. These will then be injected with sclerotherapy and the extent of damage will be investigated. Samples will also be used for laboratory analysis into the pathophysiology of varicose veins.