Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Observational Ages 18 and up

Understanding the mechanical properties of human veins

Official title: The Mechanical Characterisation of Human Saphenous and Popliteal Vein

Run by University Hospital of Limerick · NCT04016649 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study looks at the strength and flexibility of certain veins that are often thrown away after surgeries to see if they can be used better in future medical treatments.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment50 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity Hospital of Limerick
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Limerick, Limerick)
StatusRecruiting
StartedJanuary 21, 2019
Main results expectedJanuary 21, 2027
Study endsMarch 21, 2027
Registry record updatedApril 17, 2025
Trial IDNCT04016649 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older undergoing varicose vein procedures, lower limb amputations, or bypass surgeries.

Probably not a fit

Patients who are unable to provide informed consent or are seriously ill may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to characterize the mechanical properties of human saphenous and popliteal veins that are typically discarded after varicose vein procedures, lower limb amputations, and bypass surgeries. By analyzing the stress-stretch relationship of these vein segments, the study seeks to enhance the understanding of treatment techniques and improve the design of mechanical devices. The findings could also help assess the suitability of these veins as conduits for bypass and arteriovenous fistula procedures.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved surgical techniques and better outcomes for patients requiring vascular interventions.

How similar studies have gone: While this approach is focused on mechanical characterization, similar studies have shown promise in improving vascular treatment techniques.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Male or Female patients aged 18 years or older
* Patients undergoing varicose vein procedures or;
* Patients undergoing lower limb amputation or;
* Patients undergoing lower limb bypass surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients unable to give informed consent
* Seriously ill/unconscious patients

Where it's running

  • University Hospital Limerick
    Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Eamon Kavanagh, MD FRCSI — University Hospital of Limerick
  • Study coordinator: Fiona Leahy, CNM Research
  • Email: fionac.leahy@hse.ie
  • Phone: 061588394

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.