Stroke after varicose vein foam injection sclerotherapy
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 13, 2026

Combination of High Ligation and Intraoperative Embolization Using Polidocanol for Treatment of Varicoceles
Published on: December 22, 2023
Martin V Forlee1, Maria Grouden, Dermot J Moore
1Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, St James Hospital, Dublin, Ireland. mvforlee@eircom.net
Abstract:
This report describes an ischemic stroke after foam injection sclerotherapy of varicose veins in a patient with a patent foramen ovale. Foam injection sclerotherapy has created resurgence in the minimally invasive treatment of varicose veins. The United States Food and Drug Administration halted a clinical phase 2 trial of a commercial preparation of polidocanol microfoam in 2003 because of concerns relating to possible gas embolism. These trials were recommenced in July 2005. Neurologic complications such as transient visual disturbances and transient confusional states have previously been reported. This case, with its strong circumstantial evidence, illustrates the previously unconfirmed potential for embolic complications using this technique.
Related Concept Videos
Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Varicose Veins I: Introduction
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol abuse, or...
Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management

