Sclerotherapy is a common treatment for spider and small varicose veins on the legs. During treatment, a mild chemical solution is injected into the abnormal veins. This medication irritates the walls of the vessel, causing it to scar. The body then absorbs the vein and blood is re-routed to healthy veins, restoring proper venous circulation in the area. At times, we may aid injection therapy by transilluminating the surrounding area to make the problem veins more visible to the naked eye.

A single sclerotherapy treatment session involves multiple injections. Patients describe the injections as feeling like a pinprick or mosquito bite. The number of treatment sessions needed will vary from patient to patient, depending on the number of veins treated. Your doctor will discuss the number of treatment sessions you may need before you start treatment.

After the procedure, most patients do not experience any symptoms. Patients are expected to wear a compression stocking for two weeks after the procedure. There are few restrictions, but patients are advised to avoid hot tubs, saunas and vigorous aerobic activity for two weeks.

There are very few potential complications. Your doctor will discuss these with you at your visit and answer any questions you may have.

Foam-Sclerotherapy

Foam-Sclerotherapy is a type of sclerotherapy for larger varicose veins. The foam solution has the consistency of shaving cream, which improves treatment in two distinct ways. First, the foam displaces blood within the vein, permitting the full strength of the medication to be in direct contact with the vein wall for an extended period of time without any dilution effects. Second, the foam is visible via ultrasound imaging and can be easily tracked and guided to the source of the venous problem.