Human saphenous vein in vitro model for studying the action of sclerosing solutions

Abstract

Background: Previous studies detailing the clinical and histologic effects of sclerosing solutions in rabbit ear and other animal vein models have provided information comparing the effects of various concentrations of hypertonic saline with and without dextrose (Sclerodex), polidocanol, scleremo (chromated glycerin), and sodium tetradecyl sulfate.

Objective: To observe short-term histologic changes of sclerosing solutions in vitro in large diameter human vein.

Methods: Human saphenous vein segments were obtained following cardiac bypass procedures. Several types of sclerosing solutions, including 23.4% hypertonic saline, 1% polidocanol, and 3% sodium tetradecyl sulfate, were allowed continuous contact with the vessel wall for 10 minutes. Test vein segments were immediately fixed and observed for histologic changes compared with normal saline controls.

Results: Endothelium was rapidly destroyed by all tested sclerosing solutions. Vessel wall necrosis occurred quickly with the extent determined by the sclerosing solution. Destructive potential of 3% sodium tetradecyl sulfate greatly exceeded that of 23.4% hypertonic saline or 1% polidocanol, in agreement with previous animal studies.

Conclusion: Direct toxic effects of sclerosing agents may be compared in a constant, reproducible environment with this in vitro model.