Comparing two methods for treating varicose veins

Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy of the SALFOAM 3% Method Compared to the Conventional Polidocanol Foam Method (Tessari Method) for Treating Lower Limb Varicose Veins

Phase 4 Interventional Science Valley Research Institute · NCT06667570

This study is testing a new way to treat varicose veins using a special foam method to see if it works better and causes fewer side effects than the standard treatment.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorScience Valley Research Institute Academic / other
Locations1 site (São Paulo)
Trial IDNCT06667570 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the efficacy and safety of the SALFOAM 3% method, which combines saline wash and polidocanol 3% foam injection with extrinsic compression, against the conventional Tessari method for treating lower limb varicose veins. The study aims to determine if the SALFOAM 3% method provides better vein occlusion rates and fewer adverse effects, such as hyperpigmentation. It involves adults with clinically confirmed varicose veins and will assess both treatment outcomes and patient quality of life.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with clinically confirmed varicose veins in the lower limbs.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have known allergies to polidocanol may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment options for patients with varicose veins, enhancing their quality of life and reducing adverse effects.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with similar sclerotherapy approaches, suggesting potential for success in this trial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults aged 18 years or older with clinically confirmed varicose veins in the lower limbs by ultrasonography.
* All Fitzpatrick skin types (I-VI).
* Ability to provide written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
* Known allergy or adverse reaction to polidocanol or similar agents.
* Active infection in the area of treatment.
* Immunosuppressed patients.
* Severe coagulopathies or a history of recent deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
* Diagnosis of patent foramen ovale.
* CEAP classification VI (active venous ulcers).
* Use of medications that may interfere with the study outcomes.
* Inability to comply with the study protocol or refusal to participate.

Where this trial is running

São Paulo

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Varicose VeinsChronic Venous DiseasePolidocanol FoamSclerotherapySALFOAM 3%Tessari MethodVein OcclusionHyperpigmentation
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.