Sclerotherapy for treatment of spider and varicose veins

Treatment of spider veins (telangectasia):

Spider veins appear as small clusters of red, blue or purple veins on the thighs, calves and ankles. Sclerotherapy is the most effective treatment for spider veins and is virtually painless. The veins are injected with a sclerosing solution that causes them to collapse and disappear, usually within 4-8 weeks.

Several vascular lesion lasers have been developed for the treatment of leg veins; however, none are as effective as sclerotherapy.

For optimum results after treatment, compression stockings should be worn for 24 hours a day (taking them off only to bathe or to wash them) for two weeks following treatment. Normal activity may be resumed; however, hot tubs, saunas, and long, hot showers should be avoided for at least one month following sclerotherapy.

Sun exposure should be kept to a minimum during the healing phase in order to avoid/minimize any chance of hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin over the treated veins). Sunscreens with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or higher containing Mexoryl™ or Helioplex™ for UVA protection should be used during sun exposure.

A one month follow-up appointment is recommended. This will allow enough time to adequately evaluate the results of treatment and to determine if more treatment is needed. Some patients achieve 90% clearance with a single treatment.

 

Treatment of varicose veins:

Varicose veins are larger and more tortuous than spider veins and may cause significant discomfort such as tired, aching, swollen legs. Most varicose veins can be treated with sclerotherapy and there is a 90% clearing rate in all but the largest veins. Varicose veins are usually injected with a concentrated salt water solution. After the injection there will be a stinging or burning sensation, which generally subsides in 5-10 minutes with the help of an ice pack.

For optimum results, compression stockings should be worn for 24 hours a day (taking them off only to bathe or to wash them) for two weeks following treatment. Strenuous activity and air travel should be avoided for two weeks. Hot tubs, saunas, and long, hot showers should be avoided for at least one month following sclerotherapy.

Sun exposure should be kept to a minimum during the healing phase in order to avoid/minimize any chance of hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin over the treated veins). Sunscreens with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or higher containing Mexoryl™ or Helioplex™ for UVA protection should be used if your legs are exposed to sunlight.

A one month follow-up appointment is recommended after treatment. This will allow enough time to adequately evaluate the treatment and determine if more treatment is needed. Most patients achieve 90% clearance of the treated veins with a single treatment.