Sclerotherapy can be used to treat both reticular veins as well as spider veins. This technique is very simple. A tiny needle is used to inject the veins with a medication that irritates the lining of the vein. In response to the irritation caused by the medication, the vein eventually seals and is then reabsorbed by the body. Subsequently, the blood from the closed vein is routed to the properly working veins, restoring correct venous circulation. The procedure usually takes no more than 30 minutes and can even be done during an office lunch break.

A different variety of solutions are used to perform sclerotherapy. The dosage is usually adjusted based on the size of the veins. Most patients find the discomfort of treatment to be minimal. No surgical incisions are made and anesthesia is not necessary. Sclerotherapy relieves symptoms due to varicose and spider veins in most patients. With this procedure, veins can be dealt with at an early stage, helping to prevent further complications and unsightliness. 		 
Patients usually wear a compression stocking for a short period after each treatment. Most individuals need several treatments (2-4 treatments) to obtain the best results. In patients with milder cases, 1-2 will suffice. The treatments are more when there are more veins or slightly larger veins. Although complications may occur with any medical treatment, sclerotherapy has a good safety record. A patient can resume most activities shortly after each session.

After several sclerotherapy treatments, most patients notice a 50-90% improvement in the appearance and symptoms. The full effect and benefit of treatment usually takes several weeks. For this reason, many physicians recommend waiting several weeks in between sclerotherapy treatments. Bruising and pigmentation may occur after the sclerotherapy. If bruising occurs, it usually disappears within one to two weeks. Although pigmentation almost always fades, it can last for several months.

Another technique of sclerotherapy that is utilized is Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy. It is a safe and highly effective procedure that eliminates diseased veins that have traditionally required surgical removal. Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy offers a less traumatic, less costly alternative to gain and maintain control. The key to the success of this procedure is proper utilization of the Duplex Ultrasound. The goal of the procedure is to locate the diseased vein(s) hidden from view that cause the bulging on the surface of the skin. We then use the Duplex Ultrasound to help us guide both the placement of and the number of injections required according to each individual patient. Follow-up examinations will confirm success, and guide additional treatment if necessary.
 
Unfortunately, varicose vein disease is not curable. Like many other chronic medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension, it requires ongoing care and surveillance after the initial course of treatment gains control. Treatment in the earlier stages helps avert unpleasant complications (leg ulcers, dermatitis, phlebitis, blood clots), and relieve bothersome symptoms.


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