What is sclerotheropy?
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a treatment used to improve the appearance of varicose veins. It consists of injecting a solution directly into the veins. This solution irritates the inner lining of the vein, thus causing inflation. The vein collapses, with the solution reabsorbed by the local tissue for a subsequent gradual disappearance of the veins.
Sclerotherapy is a non-invasive treatment to treat varicose and spider veins in the legs. It is usually the treatment of choice for small varicose veins or spider veins.
This treatment improves varicose vein symptoms such as pain, swelling, burning sensation, and night cramps. Veins tend to disappear within a few weeks, although sometimes it can take up to two months to see complete results. Some people may need several sclerotherapy sessions.
How is it performed
How is Sclerotherapy Performed?
The procedure is done in a doctor's office. It does not require anesthesia and can take 15 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the extension of the veins.
The patient will be on his back with his legs slightly raised. Then the vein specialist will inject the veins with the solution. Some patients may experience some symptoms such as slight burning or cramping during and after the injections.
Ultrasound-guided Sclerotherapy
It is a technique where ultrasound is used to visualize varicose veins, so they can be injected using ultrasound. Guided Sclerotherapy is a safer and more comfortable technique to accurately guide injections and help treat varicose veins and deep spider veins that are not visible on the skin's surface.
After Treatment
After each sclerotherapy session, patients should wear compression stockings for a few days depending on the veins or spiders being treated. The stockings offer greater comfort and reduce the possibility of pigmentation and deep vein thrombosis.
Most patients can return to their normal activities after the procedure. Sun exposure in the treated area should be avoided for two weeks after Sclerotherapy.
Reasons to Perform Sclerotherapy
- Cosmetic purposes; it improves the appearance of varicose and spider veins.
- Improves symptoms including pain, swelling, burning sensation, and night cramps.
How can you prepare
How Can You Prepare for the Procedure?
Before the procedure, your varicose vein specialist will review your medical history and perform a physical evaluation. They will examine the veins to be treated and look for any problems in the blood vessels. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have some of the following conditions or habits:
- If you are currently pregnant.
- Have medical conditions such as heart disease or bleeding disorders, or cancer.
- Are taking medication, whether prescription or over-the-counter.
- If you smoke or take birth control pills.
- If you have any allergies.
Do not use any type of product such as cream on the legs on the day of the procedure.
Side Effects After Sclerotherapy
As with any treatment, there are some side effects associated with Sclerotherapy, such as:
- Bruising.
- Burning can last for a few days.
- Raised red areas at injection sites.
- Brown lines or spots at the vein site.
- Small red blood vessels.
Serious complications rarely occur, such as inflammation, blood clots, allergic reactions, or bloodstream air bubbles. These complications may require attention from the veins specialist or varicose veins surgeon. If you have any questions or concerns, contact your doctor.
Whow can be eligible
Who Can Be Eligible For Sclerotherapy?
You will have to consult a vascular specialist to confirm if you are a suitable candidate for sclerotherapy treatment. Before carrying out this varicose vein treatment or spider vein treatment, it is necessary to perform a duplex ultrasound. This ultrasound creates a virtual map of leg veins helping the specialist identify what causes varicose veins. Sclerotherapy cannot be performed during pregnancy.