What is sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy uses injections from a very fine, thin needle to improve the cosmetic appearance of spider veins, treat reticular veins in the legs, and relieve related symptoms such as aching, burning, swelling and cramping. Each treatment session typically results in elimination of up to 80 percent of the injected veins.

What is Sclerotherapy of Varicose Veins and Spider Veins?

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment used to treat spider veins. The procedure involves the injection of a solution directly into the affected veins, causing them to shrink and eventually disappear.

What are some common uses of the procedure?

Sclerotherapy is used to improve the cosmetic appearance of spider veins and to relieve some of the symptoms associated with spider veins, including aching, burning, swelling and night cramps. It is the primary treatment for small veins in the legs.

Pre-Treatment Instructions

No aspirin or blood thinning products (fish oll, vitamin E, ibuprofen, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for 7-9 days before the procedure (check with your physician first if you must be on these medications).

Bring heavy, thigh-high support hose to wear when you leave the office and seven days after treatment (support hose can be generic or the nursing-type; pharmacy type is not required).

Do not shave or use depilatories on legs the day of the procedure.

Do not apply lotion to your legs on the day of the procedure.

Shower and thoroughly wash your legs with antibacterial soap prior to the procedure.

Expect possible bruising for approximately one week after the procedure.

Mild muscle cramping is not uncommon. Tylenol can be taken if necessary.

Wear loose-fitting shorts or a leotard to wear during treatment.

Try to avold drinking alcohol or smoking 2 days prior and 2 days after the procedure.

If you have any further questions, please ask prior to the procedure.

Post Care

A typical sclerotherapy session lasts 15 to 45 minutes. More than one treatment may be necessary to clinically treat superficial veins.

• Maintain compression for 2 to 3 days after treatment of spider veins and for 5-7 days, preferably for 3 weeks for reticular veins. Post-treatment compression is necessary to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis.

• Wearing compression stockings (23 to 32 mm Hg) for 3 weeks enhances the efficacy of sclerotherapy of leg telangiectasias (spider veins) by improving clinical vessel disappearance.

• 2-3 treatments separated by 4-6 weeks are usually needed for desired result