Sclerotherapy

Kathleen Behr, M.D.

 

What is Sclerotherapy?

It is a technique in which a sclerosing solution is injected into small vessels of the skin.  A very fine needle is used resulting in minimal discomfort.  A variety of sclerosing solutions are available.  These include 23.4% hypertonic saline and chromated glycerin.

 

Sunburst veins of the lower extremities are unattractive and embarrassing to many people.  The treatment and eradication by sclerotherapy is simple, safe and effective.  Thousands of people are delighted with the results they are getting from this treatment.  Please feel free to discuss any aspect of this treatment with us.

 

Are there side effects?

Small blisters may occur if tiny amounts of fluid leak out of blood vessels.  These blisters heal quickly, but a small brown freckle like area of pigmentation may remain.   A small permanent scar rarely occurs at the site of the injection.

Bruises can result when the wall of blood vessels are weak and can last from 2 weeks to 3 months.

Swelling can occur around the treated blood vessels.  Pigmentation, which is iron (hemoglobin) from the dissolved blood gradually fades, but a small amount may remain permanent.

A slight stinging and sensation of warmth can be felt as the sclerosing solution is injected and some patients may feel a sensation of faintness or dizziness.

A clot may develop at the injection site, particularly when large blue veins are injected; healing is quicker if this small clot is removed within a week of the procedure.

 

How does Sclerotherapy work?

The sclerosing solution dries out the small cells which line the inner walls of blood vessels. A large number of veins within a given area may improve with a single injection.

 

When do the blood vessels disappear?

Fading of the blood vessels continues for 1-6 months.  It is important to recognize that Sclerotherapy does not prevent new sunburst veins, and recurrences can occur over 1-5 years.

 

How do the veins form?

No one is certain, but they tend to be more common in some families.  Mechanical trauma to the skin and long periods of standing may also play a role.

 

Can they be prevented?

There are no proven preventative measures.  Some physicians feel that support hose or graduated pressure stockings may be helpful.  Weight reduction and exercise are also reported to be helpful.

 

How often can I be treated?

Some areas can be retreated in 30 days.  New sites can be injected every week.  The number of times Sclerotherapy has to be performed varies with the number of areas that have to be injected and their response to each injection.  The number of injections required also depends on how much improvement is desired by you.

 

How should I dress for the procedure?

Wear brief shorts under comfortable clothing.

 

How much does it cost?

Cost is related to the number of vessels injected and the amount of time required.  Longer sessions and larger problem areas will cost more.

 

Are there any special instructions after the procedure?

Pressure dressing can be recommended for the first 24 hours.

Support stockings are recommended for 12 hours a day for 2-3 weeks.

Strenuous activity and standing for long periods of time should be avoided for the first 24 hours.

You should purchase dressings and stockings before your procedure.  At your consultation a prescription for stockings will be given to you.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions