Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy, or 'injection therapy', is the most common method of treatment for varicose and spider veins on the legs.
During treatment, a mild sclerosing solution is injected into the varicosity, dilated vein or network of spider veins. The sclerosing agent irritates the walls of the vein, causing it to go to spasm and shrink in size. The vein walls stick together and the vein eventually disappears. A transilluminating device is utilized to better visualize the full extent of the varicosities as well as to locate its deeper origins.
A single sclerotherapy treatment session involves multiple injections. The number of treatment sessions needed will vary, depending on the number and size of veins treated, the necessary healing time, and the level of cosmetic expectation desired.
Following each treatment session, the leg is wrapped with an elastic bandage for several hours to 1 day followed by the use of compression stockings for another 2-3 days, depending on the size of the veins treated. Resumption of normal daily activities is encouraged immediately after treatment except for vigorous leg exercises.
Sclerotherapy is a very safe and effective procedure, requires no down time and produces excellent results in the elimination of varicose veins.
Veins in the hands, chest and breast areas as well as in the face may also be treated effectively with sclerotherapy.