Recurrence of varicose veins following superficial venous surgery: prevention using doxycycline

Pilot study: A randomised controlled double blind study of the use of doxycycline to affect levels of CD34 positive cells, VEGF, MMP-9 and other factors following abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Grp A: patients will take doxycycline (100mg twice daily) for one week prior to surgery and 4 weeks post operatively. Grp B: patients will take doxycycline (100mg twice daily) beginning on the day of surgery and for 4 weeks post operatively. Blood samples will be taken prior to, during and after doxycycline administration. Tissue samples will be obtained following surgery. Main study: A randomised controlled double blind study of the use of doxycycline to affect levels of CD34 positive cells, VEGF, MMP-9 and other factors following superficial venous surgery for varicose veins. Details of this study will be expanded on when results of the pilot study have been analysed. Follow up of all patients with ultrasound, air plethysmography and clinical evaluation at 1 month, 6 months, 1, 3 and 5 years.