The VEINES study (VEnous Insufficiency Epidemiologic and Economic Study): an international cohort study on chronic venous disorders of the leg. VEINES Group.

The aim of the VEINES study is to address some gaps in knowledge regarding the multidimensional repercussions of venous disorders and the measurement of outcomes. Its objectives are to describe and compare defined clinical presentations of venous-related leg disorders with regard to natural history, clinical outcome, functional capacity, quality of life, and economic impact. A secondary objective is to develop or identify and test standardized instruments for the evaluation of therapeutic effectiveness. This paper presents an overview of the design of the study and of the options chosen for the recruitment process and the outcome measures.