| Sclerotherapy |
Sclerotherapy For Leg Veins
What is sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to treat varicose and “spider” veins. It involves injecting a sclerosing solution directly into the vein. This irritates the lining of the vessel, causing the vessel wall to scar down and close. Over time the body absorbs the damaged vessel and it eventually fades away.
Varicose veins may be due to an underlying medical condition that will require an evaluation by a vascular surgeon. At the time of your initial consultation we will evaluate you for this condition and refer you out if needed.
How is sclerotherapy done?
Sclerotherapy is a safe and effective in-office procedure. With the assistance of a vein light, a small needle is used to inject a sclerosing solution into each vessel. During the treatment patients may experience mild discomfort. After the treatment the legs may bruise and feel achy or itchy for a few days. Compression stockings must be worn for one week following each treatment and may be purchased in the office.
The number of veins that can be injected in one session is dependent on the size and number of the vessels. Two to four treatments are typically required to achieve a 70-80% clearance of vessels, 100% is not a realistic goal. Treatments are performed a month apart.
How successful is sclerotherapy in treating varicose and spider veins?
Sclerotherapy is a well-proven procedure and has been used since the 1930’s. It works well for most patients. A consultation is required for all patients. An initial consultation fee is required and is applied toward the first treatment.
Less than 10% of patients that have sclerotherapy do not respond with a series of treatments. In these instances, different solutions or a different method, such as laser therapy or vein stripping, may be necessary.
After a series of treatments, the veins that have been successfully treated will not reappear. However, new veins may appear over time and it is therefore recommended that patients have a “clean up” visit every 6-12 months.
What do I need to do before the procedure?
Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory medications for 48 hours before and after treatment.
Certain antibiotics, prednisone, blood thinners, and high dose vitamin E should not be taken for four days prior to treatment. *Ask your doctor for specific guidelines before discontinuing any medication.
What are the side effects of sclerotherapy?
The most commonly reported side effects include bruising and tenderness. Bruising may take 2-4 weeks to clear.
Pigmentation changes seen as brown spots or streaks may occur within a few weeks after a treatment and may take up to a year to resolve. In some instances these pigmentation changes may be permanent however they usually fade significantly with time.
In rare instances, allergic reaction, deep vein thrombosis, and ulcers may occur. Deep vein thrombosis, DVT, is a very rare complication. It may appear as inflammation within five inches of the groin or as sudden onset of a swollen leg. The dangers of phlebitis include the possibility of pulmonary embolus (a clot carried to the lungs) and post phlebitic syndrome, resulting in a permanent swelling of the leg is also quite rare.
If you experience any of the above adverse effects please contact our office or your primary care physician immediately.
What happens after the treatment?
After the treatment you will be able to drive yourself home. You may resume regular daily activities and are encouraged to walk. Compression stockings should be worn daily for one week after each treatment.
Showers are permitted, but the water should be cooler than usual. The injection sites may be washed with a mild soap and lukewarm water. Do not take hot baths or sit in a whirlpool or sauna, nor apply hot compresses or any form of heat to the injected areas for 7 days after treatment. Exercise is permitted but your legs may be sore for a few days following treatments.
How will I know if I am a candidate for sclerotherapy?
An initial consultation is required for all patients. Sclerotherapy is contraindicated if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, immune compromised, diabetic or are taking blood thinners. You must be at least 3 months postpartum to be considered for this treatment. If you have had a blood clot in the past, your eligibility will be decided on an individual basis, and will depend on the extremity and the reason for the clot.
Will my insurance cover sclerotherapy?
Insurance does not cover sclerotherapy treatments.
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