What to Know About Sclerotherapy

Is Sclerotherapy Safe?

Allergic reactions to sclerotherapy cannot occur and it does not cause permanent staining of the skin at the injection sight. This is because we use hypertonic saline, which is 23.4% sodium chloride, containing no preservatives and no heparin. Hypertonic saline does cause stinging and short-term (minutes) discomfort in some persons, but it is very safe and very effective.

Are There Side Effects?

Sclerotherapy is considered to be a safe procedure, but side effects are possible. They include brown spots or small crusts or ulcerations at the injection sights. These typically fade but permanent discoloration and scarring is possible.

Thrombophlebitis of the treated vessel occasionally occurs, but it is superficial and responds well to aspirin (or other similar anti-inflammatory drugs), heat, and antibiotics (infrequently needed). Infrequently, tiny new vessels develop at treatment sights. They are treated the same way the original vessels were. Rarely, an ulcer may need to be excised in order to speed-up healing. It is also possible to have an allergic reaction to the medication.

Generally, patients go directly back to work. No work should be missed.

How Many Treatments Will Be Needed?

The number of treatments varies and is determined by the severity of the problem, the goals of the patient and the individual response to treatment. Many patients experience a 50% improvement or better with each treatment, but responses cannot be guaranteed. Treatments are usually done at four to six-week intervals, until patients are satisfied with the results.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are caused by blockages that prevent the blood from flowing freely through the veins. As the blood continues to back up, the veins begin to twist, becoming gnarled and engorged. Varicose veins normally appear as a result of standing or walking for long periods of time. For many people, the look of the veins is the biggest problem. For others, it can signify more serious health conditions that involve the heart and circulatory system. Regular exercise and elevating the legs while sitting down may help to prevent varicose and spider veins. A thorough examination will be able to determine what caused the condition in each individual case.

What Is The Difference Between Varicose Veins And Spider Veins?

Varicose veins are larger than spider veins and often appear on the legs. Spider veins, on the other hand, are much smaller and can appear almost anywhere on the body. Both occur due to backups and blockages within the veins. While varicose veins are thick, unsightly and normally appear to be a dark blue or purple, spider veins are much smaller and can be red, purple, or blue in color. Both types of veins are caused by the twisting and turning of the vessels as the blood begins to flow backward and become trapped within the small crevices that have been created. The more the blood continues to build, the larger the veins become.

How Is Laser Technology Beneficial In Treating Varicose Veins?

Laser technology has proven to have many benefits when used to treat varicose veins and the smaller, spider veins. Laser therapy can be used to seal the vein, allowing it to decay naturally. Laser procedures for varicose veins are non-invasive and have very few side effects other than mild irritation at the site of the treatment. The risk of infection is minimal and the patient can return to their normal, day to day routine as soon as they leave the doctor’s office. The results of the treatment are long lasting and will be visible within a few weeks of the procedure. Laser technology is safer and more effective than the stripping techniques that were used in the past.