Sclerotherapy is a non-invasive treatment that eliminates spider veins and varicose veins. During sclerotherapy, a sclerosing solution is injected into the affected veins. The sclerosing solution irritates the lining of the veins, eventually causing them to collapse and fade from view. Sclerotherapy is performed on an outpatient basis. At Premier Vein Care, we perform two types of sclerotherapy: liquid sclerotherapy and ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy. Only FDA approved products, Asclera and Sotradecol, are utilized.
Liquid Sclerotherapy
During the liquid sclerotherapy procedure, a sclerosing solution is injected into the affected vein. The solution mixes with the blood in the vessel and causes an inflammatory response. This results in the vein collapsing and disappearing. Liquid sclerotherapy is an appropriate treatment for small varicose veins and spider veins.
Ultrasound Guided Foam Sclerotherapy
During ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy, venous duplex ultrasound is used to guide the safe and accurate placement of a small needle or catheter. Once the needle or catheter is in place, scleroscent foam is injected directly into the affected vein. Ultrasound monitoring is used to ensure that the foam preferentially enters the problematic vein and not the normal veins. The foam forces the blood out of the varicose vein, makes the walls of the vein sticky, and causes it to close off. Eventually, as in liquid sclerotherapy, the vein shrivels up and disappears. Foam sclerotherapy is used to treat larger caliber veins or longer, tortuous segments not amenable to other techniques.
After undergoing sclerotherapy treatment, you will be instructed to wear compression stockings for 72 hours and encouraged to walk. You may resume your normal daily activities immediately. Final results are reviewed over the subsequent several weeks. Please refer to the post procedure instruction page for further details as well.