Phlebologie 2022; 51(04): 177-182
DOI: 10.1055/a-1853-2048
Schwerpunktthema

The Basic Scientists Are Leading the Way in Understanding, Prevention, and Treatment of Venous and Lymphatic Diseases

Article in several languages: deutsch | English
José Antonio Diaz
1   Division of Surgical Research, Light Surgical Research and Training Laboratory, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA
› Author Affiliations

Abstract

Purpose Basic science contributes to knowledge and advances the field. This is not an exception in Phlebology. This manuscript highlights the latest contributions to the basic science on varicose veins.

Methods A brief non-systematic review of the literature in the area of basic science and varicose veins was performed using PubMed. We found critical articles that are discussed in this work. In addition, we discussed all the scientific method steps, the importance of each of them, and its application to the field of Phlebology. The basic science and varicose veinsʼ articles were discussed as basic science findings on vein wall, blood flow disturbances, and vein valve changes.

Results Altered vein wall in varicose veins results from the remodeling phenomenon, led by modifications at the vein wall cellular level and in the intercellular space. Smooth Muscle Cells are involved in this process, and a shift between contractile to secretory phenotype has been described. MMPs are actively engaged in the remodeling stage, contributing to the final modification of the vein wall observed in varicose veins. Finally, the blood flow characteristics and the vein valve functionality demonstrated an integrated system.

Conclusions The Scientific Method is the cornerstone of the basic science approach. Varicose veins result from altered blood flow and vein wall remodeling phenomenon.



Publication History

Article published online:
10 August 2022

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