RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Study to Find Out the Timing for the Optimal Imaging of Varicose Veins Using Infrared Thermography.

This research is looking into the best moment to take special infrared pictures of varicose veins. When someone stands up after lying down, gravity makes their veins fill with blood, making the varicose veins more visible. This study wants to find out exactly how long it takes for these veins to show up most clearly on infrared images. This will help doctors get the clearest possible images, which is very important for understanding the veins better and planning the right treatment. Participants will lie down for 5 minutes, then stand up. As they stand, a special infrared camera will take pictures of their legs every 5 seconds for three minutes. This process helps measure how the veins change over time after standing, giving valuable information for improving varicose vein imaging.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

The Whiteley Clinic

Enrolment target

Start

26 Sep 2025

Estimated completion

26 Sep 2026

Varicose Veins Leg

What is this study about?

When you have varicose veins, doctors often use different imaging techniques to see them clearly and understand what's happening. This study is all about improving one of those techniques: infrared imaging. Infrared cameras can show us things about your veins that aren't visible to the naked eye.

The main idea behind this study is to figure out the best time to take these infrared pictures. When you lie down, the blood in your veins spreads out differently than when you stand up. When you stand, gravity pulls the blood downwards, which can make varicose veins more noticeable. Researchers want to know how long it takes after you stand up for your varicose veins to show up most clearly on an infrared picture. They also want to see if this timing changes based on where the varicose veins are in your leg.

By finding the perfect timing, doctors can get much clearer and more useful images of varicose veins. This improved imaging can help them better understand your condition and plan the most effective treatment for you, whether it's for veins that have appeared for the first time or ones that have come back.

Key takeaways

This study aims to discover the best time to photograph varicose veins with an infrared camera after standing up.
It helps doctors get clearer pictures, which can lead to better treatment plans.
Participation involves lying down, then standing still for 3 minutes while pictures are taken.
There are no direct medical benefits for participants, nor are there any significant risks.
All adults (18+) having a varicose vein scan are welcome to participate if they meet simple physical requirements.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 and over who are already having a scan for varicose veins in their legs, either for the first time or for veins that have returned. It doesn't matter if you are male or female.

To be able to take part, you need to be able to stand still for at least five minutes comfortably. You also need to be able to get onto and off a medical bed by yourself. If you can't do these things, or if you decide you don't want to take part, then this study wouldn't be suitable for you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Are you having an ultrasound scan already for varicose veins in your leg?
Can you stand still and comfortably for about 5 minutes?
Can you get on and off a doctor's examination bed by yourself?
Are you happy to agree to take part in the study?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, it will happen shortly after you've had your usual ultrasound scan for your varicose veins. You'll be asked to go into a separate research room nearby. First, we'll note your height and weight. Then, you'll lie down on a bed for 5 minutes. After this, an infrared picture will be taken of your legs.

Next, you'll be asked to stand up in front of a special infrared camera. Your feet will be placed in marked spots on the floor to make sure the camera can get the best view of your legs. You will need to stand still for three minutes while the camera takes a series of pictures of your legs every 5 seconds. The very first picture will be taken almost immediately after you stand up. After three minutes, you can sit down and then return to your consultation.

Potential risks and benefits

There are no direct medical benefits for you from taking part in this particular study, as it's purely about improving imaging techniques for future patients. There are also no known significant risks to your health; you will simply be asked to lie down then stand still for a short period, which is similar to what might happen during a regular medical examination. You are free to stop taking part in the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

The Whiteley Clinic
Verified postcode
Guildford, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is infrared imaging?

Infrared imaging uses a special camera that 'sees' heat. This can help show how blood flows in your veins, even if they aren't easy to see with the naked eye.

Will this study help my varicose veins directly?

No, this study is about improving how doctors take pictures of varicose veins for future patients. It won't directly treat or improve your own varicose veins.

How long will I need to stand still?

You will need to stand still for about 3 minutes while the camera takes pictures of your legs.

Is the infrared camera safe?

Yes, infrared cameras are completely safe. They don't use X-rays or any harmful radiation; they just detect heat.

What if I change my mind during the study?

You are free to stop participating at any point, without needing to give a reason, and it won't affect your medical care.

How to find out more

Mark S Whiteley, MS FRCS(Gen) MBBS

mark@thewhiteleyclinic.co.uk +44 330 058 1850 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.