In this prospective design study the effects of low-energy partially focused
extracorporeal generated shock waves (ESW) onto a subcutaneous located varicose vein – left
vena saphena magna (VSM) – are investigated. The treatment consisted of 4 ESW applications
within 21 days. The varicose VSM of both sides were removed by surgery, and samples analyzed
comparing the treated and untreated by means of histopathology.