Sclerotherapy

Those who suffer from painful, unsightly veins may find relief through sclerotherapy, a non-invasive procedure that prompts the troubled vein to collapse and disappear. During treatment, a sclerosing solution composed of saline and other detergents is injected into the varicose or spider vein. Sclerotherapy is a fairly common procedure; in 2010 in the US alone, 365,744 sclerotherapy procedures were performed.

When Is Sclerotherapy The Right Choice?

Sclerotherapy may be an approach to consider if your varicose or spider veins have become painful or if their appearance bothers you. A number of factors can influence the development or worsening of spider and varicose veins. Among these are the following:

Pregnancy
Hormonal shifts
Weight gain
Prolonged sitting or standing

Both men and women can develop varicose and spider veins. Varicose veins are detectable by their darker color, larger size and tendency to bulge. Spider veins, on the other hand, are smaller than varicose veins, and appear in a spider-web design closer to the surface of the skin.

How Sclerotherapy Treats Varicose and Spider Veins

During examination of the problematic veins, Dr. Ward will check for symptoms such as swelling, sores, or skin changes. He will also check for venous reflux disease, an abnormal recirculation of the blood.

Sclerotherapy is conducted in an outpatient facility, and no anesthesia is needed. After the skin is cleansed with antiseptic, the sclerosing agent is injected into the problematic vein with a fine needle. Approximately one injection is required for every inch of vein, so a procedure may require anywhere from between 5 and 40 injections. You should expect to schedule two or more sclerotherapy sessions in order to achieve maximum results.

Post-Operative Steps: What to Expect

Immediately after the procedure, compression tape and cotton balls are applied to protect the area and reduce swelling. In addition, tight-fitting support hose should be worn for 72 hours or more for added support. Though you should limit your activities at this time, it is advantageous if you can begin walking to promote circulation.

Please contact our plastic surgery practice in Arlington with any questions about sclerotheraphy. You can reach us at 817-861-0505 or with the online email form. Because we are located in the USMD Hospital in Arlington, we are able to extend to our patients legitimate safety and convenience. The USMD Hospital is conveniently located for residents in Mansfield, Ft. Worth proper, Grand Prairie, and Duncanville.