Sclerotherapy Treatment
Sclerotherapy Treatment for Varicose Veins
Sclerotherapy is a treatment for smaller varicose veins and the treatment of choice for spider veins. The goal is to remove varicose veins, reduce symptoms, and minimize the risks of serious vein disease like blood clots.
Sclerotherapy works by injecting a liquid or foam sclerosing agent directly into the varicose vein. Typically, liquid is used for cosmetic spider veins while ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy is used for larger veins. The chemical causes the vein to collapse and seal. The procedure is performed in the doctor’s office and does not require anesthesia. Depending on how many veins are being treated, it can take about an hour.
We treat the following:
VARICOSE VEINS
Varicoceles
ULCERS
Lymphedema
SPIDER VEINS
DVT
CHRONIC VENOUS INSUFFICIENCY
PELVIC CONGESTION
What to expect during sclerotherapy
You’ll lie on your back with your legs slightly raised. Ultrasound imaging will be used to help find the veins needing treatment. The treatment area is cleaned and the doctor inserts a thin needle into the vein. A solution or foam is injected into the vein which irritates the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to swell shut and block blood flow. This permanently closes the vein.
Once the doctor removes the needle, your leg will be massaged to help spread the sclerosing material inside the vein. For larger veins, a compression bandage may be applied. The number of injections depends on the size and number of the veins being treated.
You may feel a slight stinging or cramping sensation when the needle is being inserted. After the procedure is done, you’ll receive help to get up and start walking around immediately to prevent blood clot formation.
You’ll need to wear compression stockings for a week or so afterwards to apply pressure on the treated veins. Most people are able to return to normal activities right away. Avoid sun exposure to the treated area for two weeks following sclerotherapy. You may need additional treatments to achieve your best results.
Benefits of Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy has many benefits.
- No incisions are required
- It is performed in-office in our state-of-the-art facility
- Only takes about an hour
- Return to normal activities almost immediately
- Very little bruising or discomfort