How varicose veins are treated by sclerotherapy?
A needle is first inserted into the vein to be sclerosed. The sclerosing substance is slowly injected into the vein through a cannula. Once the needle has been withdrawn, the treated segment of the vein is immediately compressed. If the varicose veins are very long, the doctor repeats the process at several places along the affected vein. After completion of the procedure, a compression bandage is applied tightly to the leg being treated and a compression stocking is worn for added compression.
Over the last few years, foam sclerosis has become established as a more advanced form of treatment for larger varicose veins such as the large saphenous veins. The sclerosing substance is turned into foam immediately before being injected into the vein. Due to the large surface area of the foam, the substance reaches all parts of the vein, especially in the larger vessels.
What to expect after vein treatment with sclerotherapy?
As a rule, sclerotherapy is performed as an outpatient procedure. However, in order to achieve the optimum outcome, it might be necessary to repeat the sclerotherapy procedure a second or third time in some areas. The patients must wear compression bandaging and compression garments for a few days or even weeks depending on the diameter of the veins treated. During the first few days after sclerosis, patients should not take part in any athletic activities and should avoid hot baths, saunas and tanning salons.
Sclerotherapy is considered very gentle and safe. There are only a few side effects and complications are rare.