Sclerotherapy

They appear commonly on the thighs, calves, ankles and are considered a plague by the majority of America’s female population.

Sclerotherapy is chosen every year - by millions of women who are bothered by spider veins.  Sclerotherapy is an injection treatment that involves treating those unwanted, visible small thin veins (telangiectasias or sunburst varicosities) that lie close to the surface of the skin. They show up in several colors – red, blue and purple.  Caused by heredity, pregnancy, hormonal shifts, weight gain, occupations or activities that require prolonged sitting or standing and/or the use of certain medications, this condition usually causes aching and burning. We also have found that Sclerotherapy reduces the fragility of  leg skin which is a normal aging process.  CCI recommends Sclerotherapy in conjunction with laser vein removal to treat larger vessels.

CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING FACTS ABOUT SCLEROTHERAPY:

• Sclerotherapy is a safe, effective injection treatment for small veins
• Sclerotherapy has been safely in use since the early 1930’s
• Sclerotherapy injections are 30 minute, in-office, out-patient treatments
• Sclerotherapy treatments are tailored to your needs
• Sclerotherapy reduces age-related leg skin fragility
• Sclerotherapy in conjunction with laser is effective for larger vessels

Sclerotherapy diminishes unsightly veins. It is a proven - safe and effective treatment that’s been used in America since the 1930’s.  The sclerosing agents are mild enough to be used in small veins with excellent predictability and minimum discomfort. 

SCLEROTHERAPY PROCEDURE:
This procedure usually takes approximately 30 minutes – depending upon the number of veins being treated and individual patient preferences. It is done in our office usually in 1 or 2 sessions. A fine thin needle is used to inject the sclerosing agent into the veins.  Several injections can be done during one treatment session.  Some swelling, bruising and minimal discomfort is normal.  This resolves in a few days.  It normally takes between 10-14 days for the veins to be absorbed and disappear following your treatment.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT SCLEROTHERAPY:

What is sclerotherapy?
It is a microinjection procedure to treat spider veins.  A sclerosing agent is injected into the small veins using a very fine, thin needle.  This causes the veins to undergo fibrosis and eventually disappear.

What are spider veins?
They are the most common veins among women ages 30-50.  Spider veins are light purple and look like a circular network pattern.

Where is the sclerotherapy treatment done?
It is done in-office as an out-patient procedure since it does not require anesthesia.

Are the injections painful?
There is minimal pain – patients tell us there is a little sting after each injection. This burning sensation lasts only a few minutes. A topical local anesthetic can be used if you need it.

What is a sclerosing agent?
This is a sterile solution of hypertonic saline or sodium tetradecyl sulphate. The chemical irritates the small vein and causes it to undergo fibrosis and disappear.

How many injection treatments are required?
This varies patient by patient but typically 2-4 treatments are needed for best results.  In milder cases 1-2 treatments usually work effectively.

Will sclerotherapy effectively treat large varicose veins?
No.  However, if it is used in combination with laser treatment – sclerotherapy can be used to treat large varicose vessels. 

Is activity limited following a treatment?
Walking is strongly recommended after a treatment but high impact, strenuous activities such as sports must be avoided for several days.

Who is a good candidate for sclerotherapy?
Almost anyone who is in good health and who is concerned about spider veins can be treated – except for women who are pregnant or nursing. 

How will I feel after a treatment?
Some swelling, bruising and mild discomfort is normal and to be expected with each treatment.  Any discomfort you experience can be easily managed with oral pain medication such as Tylenol. You will be required to wear support hose or wraps to minimize swelling and discomfort.  Walking is not a problem after treatment and the other side effects resolve over a few days.

Will insurance pay for my sclerotherapy treatments?