Sclerotherapy continues to be an important viable treatment for varicose vein treatment today, eliminating small to medium-sized bulging varicose veins and spider vein networks. The minimally-invasive procedure involves the injection of a sclerosing agent into the affected vein, which causes the vein walls to seal shut so the vein eventually disappears completely from view. Blood is rerouted through healthy veins nearby. The procedure involves little discomfort or downtime afterward, making it a good option for many patients who want to eliminate varicose veins for aesthetic reasons or to alleviate painful symptoms.
In the past, liquid sclerosing agents limited treatment to smaller, superficial spider and varicose veins. However, the introduction of foam agents allows doctors to treat larger varicose veins with minimally-invasive procedures as well. Foam covers a larger surface area inside the vein, displacing blood within the vein for faster, more effective results. Foam can also be used to treat varicose veins deeper in the leg, using ultrasound to guide the physician to the correct location.
The physician injects the sclerosing agent directly into the affected veins. In some cases, mild stinging or cramping occurs as the solution goes into the veins, but that is the only discomfort experienced by patients throughout the procedure. The entire treatment session may take anywhere from 15 minutes to one hour, depending on the number of veins to be treated.
After the procedure, patients remain off their feet for a short period of time, while compression bandages are applied to the injection sites. After a number of minutes, patients are encouraged to walk around to encourage healthy blood flow and healing to the affected limb. Normal activities may be resumed right away, although heavy lifting and strenuous physical activity may be restricted for a number of days. Compression stockings are typically worn for a number of days to maintain pressure on treated veins and promote blood flow.
Results of sclerotherapy are generally seen within three to six weeks after treatment, depending on the size of the veins treated. Larger veins take longer to fade from view, as a general rule. While treated veins are eliminated permanently, new varicose veins can develop in the area at a later time. Some patients may require more than one treatment session to achieve the desired results.
Sclerotherapy is a minimally-invasive way to eliminate varicose and spider veins. Whether you are bothered by these veins for cosmetic reasons, or you are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms as a result, this procedure can help you say goodbye to those unsightly, bulging veins. Contact Specialty Vein Care to find out if sclerotherapy is the right vein treatment for you.
