Sclerotherapy: Indications, Procedure and Recovery
Sclerotherapy is a non-surgical and minimally invasive medical procedure designed to treat varicose veins and spider veins. These unsightly and often uncomfortable veins, most commonly found in the legs, can cause pain, swelling, and aching sensations. Sclerotherapy offers an effective way to diminish their appearance and alleviate associated symptoms.
Types of Sclerotherapy
Traditional Sclerotherapy: Used for smaller veins (spider veins or small varicose veins). A sclerosant solution is injected into the vein, causing it to collapse and fade over time.
Foam Sclerotherapy: This treatment is more successful for more noticeable varicose veins and involves injecting a foam sclerosant. Better outcomes are ensured by the foam’s improved ability to make touch with the vein walls.
Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy: For deeper veins or veins that are not visible on the skin’s surface, ultrasound-guided sclerosing is used. In order to guarantee precise placement, ultrasound imaging aids in guiding the sclerosant injection.
Laser-Assisted Sclerotherapy: In more complicated circumstances, laser-assisted sclerotherapy is frequently utilized to target veins by combining sclerotherapy with laser energy, prior to the injection of sclerosant, the laser aids with vein closure.
Indications of Sclerotherapy
Varicose Veins: Treat large, twisted veins causing pain, heaviness, swelling, or aching in the legs.
Spider Veins: Addresses small, visible veins (red, blue, or purple) near the skin’s surface, often for cosmetic reasons.
Symptom Relief: Recommended for discomfort like aching, throbbing, or heaviness in the legs.
Cosmetic Improvement: Enhances skin appearance by reducing visible veins.
When Other Treatments Fail: Used when lifestyle changes, compression stockings, or creams are ineffective.
Medical Evaluation: A specialist determines suitability based on vein size, severity, and overall health.
Who will perform Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is typically performed by healthcare professionals specializing in vein conditions. Providers who may administer sclerotherapy include:
Phlebologist
Vascular Surgeon
Dermatologist
Interventional Radiologist
Vascular Medicine Specialist
General Surgeon
Medical Doctors with Specialization
Steps Involved in Sclerotherapy
Initial Assessment: A specialist reviews your medical history, examines veins, and discusses symptoms.
Preparation: Wear loose clothing; stand, sit, or lie down depending on vein location.
Cleansing: The treatment area is cleaned and sterilized.
Injection: A sclerosant solution is injected to irritate vein walls, causing them to close.
Compression/Massage: Pressure or massage helps disperse the solution and collapse veins.
Repeat Sessions: Multiple sclerotherapy injections or sessions may be needed for optimal results.
Compression Garments: Stockings or bandages are used to support treated veins.
Aftercare: Avoid sunlight and strenuous activities, and follow compression guidelines.
Follow-Up: Attend appointments to track progress and plan further treatments if needed.
Results: Veins gradually fade over weeks to months for improved appearance.
Preparing for Sclerotherapy
Preparing for sclerotherapy, a minimally invasive procedure to treat varicose veins and spider veins, involves several steps to ensure a successful and comfortable experience. Here’s how to prepare for your sclerotherapy appointment:
Consultation: Meet with a vein specialist to discuss symptoms, medical history, and expectations.
Medical Evaluation: You may need tests like an ultrasound to assess vein condition.
Medications: Inform your provider about any medicines, as some may need to be adjusted.
Skin Care: Avoid lotions or creams on the treatment area on the day of the procedure.
Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothes, possibly a gown, for the procedure.
Hydration and Diet: Stay hydrated and eat lightly before the procedure.
Avoid Sun Exposure: Minimize sun exposure to ensure accurate treatment.
Compression Stockings: You may need to wear them before and after the procedure.
Transportation: Arrange a ride if needed, as you may not drive post-treatment.
Questions & Consent: Discuss concerns and review and sign consent forms before the procedure. Follow any specific pre-procedure instructions provided.
Recovery after Sclerotherapy
Recovery after sclerotherapy, a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins and spider veins, is generally straightforward and requires minimal downtime. Here’s what you can expect during the recovery period and some tips to promote a smooth healing process:
Immediate Recovery: Resume normal activities but walk to improve circulation. Mild discomfort, bruising, or swelling may occur but should improve in a few days.
Compression Garments: Wear compression stockings or bandages as advised to reduce swelling and support vein healing.
Hydration: Stay hydrated to support healing and circulation.
Avoid Sun Exposure: Keep treated areas out of direct sunlight to prevent pigmentation issues.
Exercise: Engage in light walking, avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
Follow-Up: Attend follow-up appointments to track progress and determine if more treatments are needed.
Results: Treated veins will fade over time, with full results in weeks. Multiple sessions may be needed for optimal results.
Possible Side Effects: Bruising, discolouration, or mild itching are common and will fade. Contact your healthcare provider if severe pain or swelling occurs.
Lifestyle Changes After Sclerotherapy
After undergoing sclerotherapy to treat varicose veins or spider veins, adopting certain lifestyle changes can help optimize your results, maintain vein health, and prevent the recurrence of vein issues. Here are some lifestyle changes to consider:
Stay Active: To improve circulation, do regular exercises like swimming or walking.
Healthy Weight: To reduce the strain on your veins, maintain a healthy weight.
Elevate Legs: Raise your legs to improve blood flow and reduce swelling.
Take Breaks: Avoid long periods of sitting or standing; move around often.
Compression Garments: Wear compression stockings if prescribed to improve circulation.
Avoid Tight Clothing: Avoid clothing that restricts blood flow, especially around the waist and legs.
Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet to prevent swelling and promote vascular health.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support circulation.
Comfortable Shoes: Choose shoes with low heels to reduce leg strain.
Sun Protection: Use sunscreen lotion to protect your skin and prevent pigmentation issues.
Avoid Hot Baths: Avoid excessive heat that can strain veins.
Regular Check-ups: Stay on top of your vein health with regular doctor visits.
Limit Alcohol & Smoking: Reduce alcohol and quit smoking for better vascular health.
Travel Precautions: Take breaks and stay hydrated when travelling long distances.
Consult Healthcare Provider: Seek medical advice if you notice new symptoms or concerns.
It’s important to remember that adopting these lifestyle changes can contribute to your overall well-being and the long-term success of your sclerotherapy treatment.
While these changes can be beneficial, always consult your healthcare provider before making any significant modifications to your lifestyle. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific condition and needs.
Benefits of Sclerotherapy
Improves Appearance: Reduces the visibility of varicose and spider veins, leading to smoother, clearer skin.
Non-surgical: A procedure that is minimally invasive and does not require general anesthesia or incisions.
Quick Recovery: Most patients can resume normal activities immediately, with minimal downtime.
Long-Lasting Results: Effective for long-term vein removal, with veins often fading within weeks to months.
Minimal Discomfort: Only mild discomfort is typically felt during the procedure, and side effects like bruising are temporary.
No Hospital Stay: The procedure is done in a doctor’s office and does not require overnight hospitalization.
Improved Circulation: By increasing blood flow, this treatment can lessen varicose vein pain, edema, and discomfort.
Customizable Treatment: To get the best outcomes, this can be made to fit veins of different sizes and locations.
