What is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a method of treating enlarged and twisted veins called spider varicose veins. Spider varicose veins, which are usually seen on the legs, can be destroyed by the sclerotherapy method. During sclerotherapy, a solution is placed into the vein with a needle. The solution, which provides scarring of the vein, thus enables the blood to use the surrounding healthier veins.

Why Is Sclerotherapy Performed?

Sclerotherapy can be performed not only to create a better image of the area concerned, but also to improve many symptoms. These symptoms may include burning, aching, swelling, and cramping at night.

Sclerotherapy Risks

Like all other surgical operations, sclerotherapy involves certain risks. While risks are generally less common, they can include:

• air bubbles
• blood clot
• inflammation
• deep vein thrombosis
• allergic reaction

There may also be side effects that will disappear in the future, such as a series of small red blood vessels where the needle enters the skin, small skin sores, bruising, raised red areas called hives, and darkened skin during the operation.

Sclerotherapy Procedure

Sclerotherapy is a surgical operation that usually takes less than an hour to complete. During the operation, you will lie on your back and raise your legs slightly. Your surgeon injects the solution into the vein with a needle. The liquid solution, which irritates the inner surface of the vein, causes the vein to swell and block the flow of blood through that vein.

You may experience cramping or a slight pins-and-needles sensation when the needle enters your vein. If you feel pain, it's probably because the solution has leaked into the tissue around the vein. After your surgeon removes the needle, surgeon massages the operation area to spread the solution. If there is another vein that needs to be treated, a pad is taped on this vein and the treatment of the other vein is started.

Recovery After Sclerotherapy

You will need to walk and move around immediately after the operation to prevent blood clots from forming. You may need to wear bandages and compression stockings for the first two weeks. You should not apply any lotion or shave your leg until the area is completely healed.

You can return to normal activities the same day after the operation. You should follow your surgeon's instructions and not do heavy exercises for at least two weeks. You should protect the area treated with sclerotherapy from the sun. The sun can cause permanent dark spots in the treatment area.

The results of sclerotherapy for spider veins or small varicose veins appear within 3 to 7 weeks. If the vessel size is too large, it may take up to 4 months to see the final results. Your surgeon will schedule a follow-up exam for you.