Sclerotherapy
is a method of treating varicose veins and spider veins
(telangectasias) under the skin. A substance called a sclerosing agent
is injected with a tiny needle into the veins to cause inflammation and
eventual obliteration of the blood vessel.
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| Before sclerotherapy |
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One year after sclerotherapy |
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| Before sclerotherapy |
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6 months after sclerotherapy |
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Echosclerotherapy is a relatively new technique that utilizes
ultrasound to guide injections into larger varicose veins or veins too
deep to see. These veins may be the cause of unsightly surface veins.
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| Before Echosclerotherapy |
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After Echosclerotherapy |
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Varicose
and spider veins come in all sizes, shapes, and numbers. The number of
treatments needed can be estimated at the time of your visit with your
physician. Over time spider veins and varicose veins can recur or new
ones may develop, and future treatments may be needed.
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Sclerotherapy is a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance companies.
- Itching Mild itching experienced at the vein site and along its course may occur for up to a day after injection.
- Skin Hyperpigmentation
Approximately 50% of patients who undergo therapy notice a brownish
skin pigment after the vessel is treated. In most patients, the veins
become darker right after the procedure. The veins gradually and
steadily fade over the next 12 to 15 months. Rarely, permanent brown
staining may occur.
- Allergic Reaction Rarely a
patient may have an allergic reaction to sclerosing agent solutions.
Let your physician know if you have any allergies prior to treatment.
Allergic reaction may include hives, shortness of breath, or nausea.
- Pain
Occasionally patients may experience pain at the site of injection.
After treatment, the injected vein may be tender to the touch along its
course. This is temporary and usually resolved in three to six weeks.
Acetaminophen or ibuprofen is usually all that is needed for pain after
sclerotherapy.
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Tiny new blood vessels may develop at the site of previously injected
veins. Transient swelling or hives may occur. Wound infections and
breakdown of the skin are rare complications that may require
treatment. Scarring is unusual but may occur. Even more rare are deep
vein clots traveling to the lungs or causing long term leg swelling.
- No Lotion Do not put lotion or oil on your legs for 24 prior to your session.
- Shave Shave your legs the night before.
- Loose Pants Wear loose pants, sweats or a skirt to accommodate bandages.
- Shorts Bring a pair of shorts to wear during the session.
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- In most patients, support compression stockings will be required.
- Your leg may be wrapped or bandaged after sclerotherapy.
- Often, the treated areas look worse before improvement is noted.
With successful treatment, the spider veins gradually disappear.
- We may ask you to minimize your activity for at least a day after sclerotherapy.
- We will let you know how long to leave the compression stockings or bandage on and when you can shower.
- We may ask you to minimize your activity for at least a day after sclerotherapy.
- You should avoid hot tubs and tub baths for 48 hours following sclerotherapy.
- We may ask you to return for a follow-up visit after your session.
For more information, download our Sclerotherapy Brochure (PDF)
(Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader - Click to download the latest version)
Go to Vein Center: Laser, Echosclerotherapy, Surgery
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