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Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical office procedure that can be used to treat most varicose veins. At The Vein Clinic, sclerotherapy is most often used to treat unwanted varicose veins, spider veins, and telangiectasia in the legs. Sclerotherapy is done by injecting a solution into the vein using a very fine needle. The medicated solution makes the vein walls sticky and causes the vein to collapse and close down. The blood flow is redirected to deeper veins. The damaged vein is then reabsorbed by the body, thus getting rid of the undesirable vein.

Sclerotherapy can be a very effective way to eliminate or reduce the unwanted veins. Ridding the body of these damaged veins leads to better circulation in the legs and can also get rid of symptoms that you might experience.

For larger veins we may suggest ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy. This treatment is effective for treating larger varicose veins in the legs very successfully. With the many options available for leg varicose veins – from sclerotherapy to endovenous treatments, we rarely send anyone for surgical stripping anymore.

At your consult, we will review the treatment options for your vein treatments. You will need compression stockings for post-care and also for prevention. We do carry the full line of Sigvaris and MEDI compression stockings for your convenience and all our staff are certified fitters to ensure you get the best fit for your legs. Medical compression stockings are often covered by medical insurance plans.

Preparing for Sclerotherapy Treatment

  • Wear loose-fitting pants (to pull over the cotton rolls).
  • Bring shorts to wear during the treatment.
  • Do not shave your legs on the day of treatment.
  • Do not apply lotion or cream on the day of treatment or the night before.
  • Ensure you eat adequately and stay hydrated on the day of treatment.
  • Limit sun exposure or tanning beds for 2 weeks prior to treatment.


Important:

  • You need to have appropriate compression stockings prior to the day of treatment – we recommend 20-30 mmHg compression.


Beware:

  • Alcohol, aspirin, and NSAIDs (eg. ibuprofen, Advil, naproxen, Aleve) can cause more bruising.
  • Sclerotherapy is not recommended if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or for 3 months after delivery.


Don’t forget:

  • If you are having FOAM sclerotherapy, bring your compression stockings with you.
  • Plan enough time. Your treatment can take 45-60 minutes. We also recommend you walk 30 minutes after your treatment.


Do you need new compression stockings?

  • If your stockings are more than 2 years old, if they slide down during the day when you are walking, or if they have runs or tears in them – you may need new compressions stockings.
  • Call us now. It’s best to be prepared with your stockings ahead of time.
  • Our stocking fitting experts can fit you and ensure you have your stockings in house prior to treatment.

After Your Sclerotherapy Treatment

Following Liquid Sclerotherapy

  • Walk for 30 minutes within half an hour of treatment.
  • Then remove cotton rolls and tape and put on compression stockings.
  • Wear compression stockings during waking hours for 2 weeks or longer.
  • Avoid vigorous activity such as heavy lifting (more than 10 lbs), gym workouts, long runs, or long bike rides for 2 weeks.
  • Keep your legs cool for 2 weeks. No hot tubs, saunas or hot yoga.
  • Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 2 weeks.
  • Avoid air travel for 2 weeks.
  • Avoid car rides longer than 2 hours for 2 weeks.
  • Wear compression stockings for any long-distance travel.

Following Foam Sclerotherapy

  • The nurse will apply your compression stockings at end of treatment.
  • Walk for 30 minutes within half an hour of treatment.
  • Keep cotton rolls and compressions stockings on overnight for the first night only.
  • Continue to wear stockings during waking hours for 2 weeks or longer.
  • Avoid vigorous activity such as heavy lifting (more than 10 lbs), gym workouts, long runs, or long bike rides for 2 weeks.
  • Keep your legs cool for 2 weeks. No hot tubs, saunas or hot yoga.
  • Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 2 weeks.
  • Avoid air travel for 2 weeks.
  • Avoid car rides longer than 2 hours for 2 weeks.
  • Wear compression stockings for any long-distance travel.
  • Expect to experience hard, ropey veins and possibly red tender areas along the treated vein. These can occur anytime in the first few weeks after treatment. Don’t panic. This is a normal response.

Possible Side Effects

Common

  • A stinging or burning sensation in the injected vein – this lasts seconds and improves.
  • Bruising- usually resolves in 2-3 weeks.
  • Brown staining/discolouration over the vein area – this occurs as a natural part of healing for some people. It can take many months to fade if it occurs. People with darker skin tones or those with an active tan may be at a higher risk to develop staining.


Less Common

  • Matting – a small area of new tiny veins that appears after treatment. This may fade on its own or can be treated at a later time.
  • Ulcer (small open sore) – can occur at some injection sites. It heals naturally over several weeks but may leave a small scar. Treat initially by applying Polysporin and a bandage. Contact the clinic for advice.
  • Superficial thrombosis (clots) – this is not life threatening and is a natural part of the veins healing. Feels like a lump or rope under the skin. Apply warm compresses and use NSAIDs (such as Aleve or Advil) or Voltaren gel topically. Persistent lumps/clots can be drained by us.
  • Phlebitis (inflamed vein wall) – this is not life threatening. It can be a red, hot, or tender swelling or streak of redness along the treated vein(s). Apply warm compresses and use NSAIDs (such as Aleve or Advil) or Voltaren gel topically to alleviate symptoms.


Rare

  • Allergic reactions
  • Deep vein clots (also called deep venous thrombosis/ DVT)
    Arterial injections
  • Visual disturbances (blurred vision, flashing lights, temporary vision loss)
  • Migraine headaches (in those with a history of migraines)

Anytime you are unsure about a side effect, call us. (204) 956-7709