Sclerotherapy Specialist

What is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a treatment used to address varicose, or otherwise known as spider veins, in a patient. This condition usually affects veins in the legs. The procedure employs a chemical known as sclerosant to reduce the veins. The medicine is injected inside the varicose veins. The process can take from five to 30 minutes to be effective depending on how many veins are being addressed. To begin the procedure, the affected leg will be raised above the heart to drain the blood from the veins. The injections are made and the procedure concludes by applying pressure to the leg or legs to prevent blood from returning to the veins. Compression socks may have to be worn to provide continuous pressure following the patient’s return to their home.

Will The Procedure Be Painful?

The injections might cause some mild pain and the chemical can sting a bit when injected inside the vein. However, there are minimally-invasive options available which can employ a catheter and can assist larger varicose veins which would have required surgical treatment previously. Now these larger veins can be reduced without undergoing a surgical ligation and stripping.

What Should I Expect After the Procedure?

Sclerotherapy does not usually require a period of downtime. Patients should be able to get up and move around once the procedure has been completed. It is suggested that patients take it easy and limit any strenuous activity for at least 24 to 48 hours. Patients should keep their legs out of the sun for roughly two weeks. Generally, compression socks will be given to patients and they will need to wear them for a short period following the procedure. Sclerotherapy has proven to be effective at reducing the symptoms of varicose veins in nearly all patients. To decide if sclerotherapy is right for you, contact the office to schedule a consultation with the doctor.