What is Sclerothrapy?

uring sclerotherapy, a tiny needle is used to inject the veins with one of several different kinds of chemical irritant, or sclerosant, that irritates the lining of the vein. In response, the veins collapse, seal shut, and are reabsorbed by the body.

The number of sclerotherapy treatments needed is variable, depending on the number, size, and type of veins being treated. Typically, a patient will receive several injections per treatment session.

Sclerotherapy has long been a popular treatment option for varicose and spider veins. There is no general anesthesia required for this procedure, and most patients report minor or no pain at all. Each sclero treatment session usually takes under an hour and you can return to your regular activities as soon as you leave the office!

Foam Sclerotherapy

In our clinic, we use FOAM sclerotherapy, which is newer and provides improved outcomes compared to conventional methods. The liquid sclerosant drugs are mixed with air, creating a foam solution to be injected into the veins. This foam consistency increases the surface area of the drug which allows for more contact with the vein being treated. The foam solution is less dilute than traditional liquid forms, and permits for full strength action of the drug for a longer period of time.

Ultrasound Guided

In some cases, ultrasound technology is used in combination with sclerotherapy. This gives the doctor visual guidance for targeting and effectively injecting the incompetent veins that are not visible from the surface of the skin. Ultrasound guided sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows us to treat larger and deeper veins that could only be done with surgery in the past.

What to Expect During Sclerotherapy Treatment

- Before your initial treatment, the doctor will perform an ultrasound exam of the problematic veins.
- For the procedure, you will be lying down with legs slightly raised.
- Area to be treated is cleaned with an antibacterial solution.
- The doctor uses a fine needle to inject the sclerosant into the blood vessels to be treated.
- Each injected area is lightly massaged and compression is applied.

What to Expect After Your Sclerotherapy Treatment

- The injected sites are covered with elastic bandages.
- You can return to your normal activities on the same day. It is important to walk around and move your legs often after the procedure, to prevent the formation of blood clots.
- Often the injected areas will appear discolored or bruised. This may last for weeks and the discoloration will fade over time. That is why it is strongly recommended to avoid sun exposure on the treated areas.
- Compression stockings MUST be worn as instructed by the doctor.