Sclerotherapy, or injection therapy, is a non-surgical procedure in which a solution is injected into the problem varicose veins or spider veins in order to cause its disappearance. Sclerotherapy is an office procedure using small needles. A variety of solutions are used to do sclerotherapy. The dosage is usually adjusted based on the size of the veins. Most patients find the discomfort of treatment to be minimal. No surgical incisions are made and anesthesia is not necessary. When a problem vein is closed off via sclerotherapy, the blood will re-route through the normal veins and flow much more efficiently. Resolution usually occurs within 3-8 weeks.
Sclerotherapy works by irritating the lining of the vein such that the vein seals shut.
It takes about 15-20 minutes and can be used to treat spider veins and varicoseveins.
Patients usually wear a compression stocking for a short period after treatment.
Most people need a few treatments to obtain the best results.
Treatments are generally done in monthly intervals. Although complications may occur with any medical treatment, sclerotherapy has an good safety record. You should always discuss the risks and treatment alternatives with our physician.