Sclerotherapy for Leg Veins
Many people, both men and women, suffer from unsightly and cosmetically disfiguring blood vessels called spider and varicose veins. A simple method to treat these is called Sclerotherapy, which has been used since the 1930’s. Performed by Kathleen Katipunan, dermatology assistant, a small needle is inserted and a solution is carefully injected into the veins, irritating the inner vein walls causing them to shrink and eventually fade.
What are spider veins?
Spider veins are clusters of thin, red or purple surface veins that look like tree branches or spiderwebs with their short, jagged lines. Caused by weak vascular walls and inefficient circulation, spider veins cause no health problems but many people feel they look unappealing and sometimes may cause physical discomfort. They can be found on the thighs, calves and ankle. Spider veins are considered a cosmetic problem and can be addressed with a variety of non-invasive, techniques such as sclerotherapy.
What are the causes of spider veins?
The actual cause of spider veins has not been determined though there are several factors that play a role in the development. These include, heredity, pregnancy, hormonal factors, weight gain, occupations or activities that require prolonged sitting or standing, and trauma.
What is the treatment of sclerotherapy like?
Sclerotherapy remains the primary treatment for small-vessel varicose disease of the lower extremities. The treatment area will be sterilized, and then a fine needle is used to employ a solution to the unwanted veins. For every inch of vein treated, one injection will likely be administered. Since the injection needle is so small, patients often feel little pain and do not need any anesthesia. The injection process typically takes approximately 30 minutes. A minor stinging or burning sensation is common during and right after the injections are made, but is short lived. After the treatment is finished, a bandage will be applied and the use of compression or support hose is recommended for at least a few days. The number of injection done and areas treated is variable depending on the size, number and location of veins.
What are the possible side effects?
- Temporary redness or bruising at the injection site.
- Itching and stinging that normally lasts for 1 to 2 hours.
- The veins may be tender to the touch after treatment, and an uncomfortable sensation may run along the vein route.
- Transient Hyperpigmentation or light brown streak. In rare instances this darkening may persist for 4 to 12 months.
- Sloughing or small ulceration at the injection site that heals slowly over 1 to 2 months. This occurs in less than 1% of patients who undergo sclerotherapy.
- Allergic Reactions
- Telangiectatic Matting which are tiny new blood vessels in the treated area
- Ankle swelling that usually resolves in a few days and is lessened by wearing the prescribed support stockings.
- Inflammation of the treated vessels or phlebitis.
Can sclerotherapy be used to treat large varicose veins?
Because they require more sclerosant injected than is safe, large varicose veins are not treated with sclerotherapy. Small to medium sized veins respond best to sclerotherapy procedures. There are many other techniques available for the effective treatment of larger vein problems, which will be discussed with you on the day of consultation.
How do I prepare for the treatment?
Medicines that thin the blood such as Aspirin should be avoided 2 days before and after your treatment to minimize bruising. Shower and wash your legs thoroughly on the day of your treatment. Do not apply any cream or lotion to your legs, including tanning cream. Bring loose fitting shorts to wear during the treatment. Eat a light meal or snack before your appointment. Likewise, bring the compression stockings prescribed to you to be worn after the treatment.
What should be done for after care?
Walking for at least 30 minutes after the treatment is encouraged. Normal daily activities can commence immediately after treatment, although patients are not allowed to exercise vigorously or get into a sauna or hot tub. Following sclerotherapy, patients wear a compression stocking when you leave the office. We ask that you wear your stocking for the first 24 hours after your procedure and then each day when you are awake for two to four weeks.