You can choose from several different treatment options if you are dealing with abnormal veins, including varicose veins or spider veins. Depending on the specifics of your condition, some of these treatments may be more appropriate for you than others. One of the most common treatments utilized by people with both spider veins and mild cases of varicose veins is sclerotherapy.
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a minimally-invasive vein treatment procedure that can be performed in a doctor’s office. It requires no general anesthesia, so you can return to normal activities immediately after the procedure is complete. During sclerotherapy, a vein doctor uses a thin needle to inject a special solution directly into your abnormal veins. This solution irritates the walls of the vein, causing them to swell and seal together. Eventually, the vein fades from view and is absorbed by the body. Most patients report only a mild burning sensation during the injection.
In some cases, the vascular surgeon may use ultrasound guidance to visualize the vein during the procedure. This is completely painless and will help the doctor find and treat the smaller vessels that feed into your abnormal veins. After the procedure, the surgeon will apply a cotton ball and compression tape to the injection site. Postoperative pain is minimal or nonexistent. However, bruising around the injection site is possible. Some patients also report that their abnormal veins turn darker temporarily before fading away.
Is Sclerotherapy Right for Me?
Sclerotherapy is most effective on smaller surface veins, especially those located on breasts, hands, feet, legs, or ankles. You may benefit from sclerotherapy if you have spider or varicose veins in these locations. Sclerotherapy is also ideal for patients who want a quick, nearly painless procedure that requires very little recovery time.
Sclerotherapy is highly effective, but it does not produce immediate results. Instead, the treated veins will fade gradually over the weeks and months following the procedure. Thus, sclerotherapy may not be the best choice if you desire quick cosmetic results.
How Do I Learn More?
If you are interested in learning more about sclerotherapy or exploring your other vein treatment options, contact the Vein & Vascular Institute today.