Mechanism of action of sclerotherapy.

An understanding of the mechanism by which diverse chemical solutions can initiate the process of vein-wall disruption and resorption, ie, sclerotherapy, is important when using this technique as a therapeutic modality. Insight into the pathophysiologic changes that this procedure effects within the vein wall can insure maximal clinical efficacy while minimizing the incidence of complications. This article elucidates the factors that determine the extent of mural disruption and the mechanism by which injury is produced.