BACKGROUND: Polidocanol is a liquid surfactant having endothelial cell lytic properties. In the form of a controlled, dispensed microfoam it is administered endovenously as a sclerosing agent in the treatment of varicose veins. OBJECTIVE: This review summarizes efficacy of polidocanol endovenous microfoam sclerotherapy using a proprietary dispensing system to control foam characteristics and gas content for treating varicose veins. METHODS: We reviewed in vitro, Phase I, Phase II and limited Phase III data for polidocanol microfoam with a focus on controlled foam formulation in therapy. RESULTS/CONCLUSIONS: Clinical trials of controlled dispensing of polidocanol microfoam provide evidence of effective treatment of chronic venous insufficiency with low toxicity, minimal risk and few complications.
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