The leg will be cleaned using an antiseptic solution and the leg covered in disposable fabric drapes. A small amount of local anaesthetic is injected and then a special catheter is inserted via a needle into the vein to be treated. The catheter is passed up the leg to the groin and its position checked using an ultrasound machine. The Clarivein® catheter is then activated while it is pulled back down the length of the vein to be treated. The motorised handle rotates the catheter tip

during pullback, creating vessel spasm to block forward flow and concentrate the targeted infusion of liquid sclerosant. The body heals by permanently scarring the length of the vein. After a further injection of local anaesthetic, any marked varicose veins may be removed through tiny incisions using a small hook. The stab incisions are closed with paper steristrips and covered with a dressing. A compression stocking is then applied to the leg with a bandage over the top.