Sclerotherapy

Every year, 2.4 million Americans develop varicose veins -- a potentially painful and unsightly condition; many other suffer from smaller clusters of spider veins. Varicose veins occur when valves in the vessels of the legs stop working and allow the blood to flow backwards. Spider veins are smaller red or purple clusters of veins that do not pose the same health problems and pain as varicose veins but are often still unattractive. Sclerotherapy is one of the treatments most commonly used to treat leg veins in patients who wish or need to have them removed.

The Procedure

Sclerotherapy is usually performed in a cosmetic surgeon's office as an outpatient procedure. After the area that will be treated is cleansed, the patient's veins are marked. This may be done while the patient is standing, but new technologies provide more accurate means of locating the veins while the patient is lying down. Ultrasound and special transilluminated lights provide the physician with a better view of the veins' location. Once the veins have been marked, a sclerosing solution is injected into the vessels from the largest problem vein to the smallest. Each injection treats only a small portion of the vein, so the patient may need to undergo a large number of injections in one appointment. Inside the vein, the solution causes the vessel to scar, collapse, and eventually disappear. Many patients will require 2-3 visits, each a month apart, to complete treatment.

After the Procedure

Recovery from sclerotherapy is relatively quick -- most patients return to their normal activities immediately following the procedure. There may be minor irritation at the injection site, and a protective stocking is usually worn to provide support. Walking is generally recommended the day following surgery, because it helps to promote blood flow and healing. Most patients can return to work the same day, although vigorous activity should be limited.

Health Concerns

Sclerotherapy has a high success rate, but like any procedure, there is some risk of complication. Ulceration or scarring may occur at the injection site. Changes in pigmentation may also occur. Occasionally, small clots may occur at the site of injection. Finally, new varicose veins or spider veins may still appear. In some cases, varicose veins may need a more aggressive procedure to be successfully treated. A cosmetic surgeon can help patients determine whether sclerotherapy is their best option or not.