Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is used to treat small, isolated varicose veins and spider veins.

Cosmetic perfection is not realistically attainable but usually the appearance of the legs is significantly improved. The number of treatment sessions required can vary depending on the number and severity of veins to be treated.

Treatment of varicose veins & spider veins with sclerotherapy involves injecting the veins with a sclerosing solution; at this practice we use hypertonic saline (sterile salty water). The solution irritates the lining of the vein causing it to become “sticky” compression pushes the walls of the vein together so that it is sealed off. The treated veins then fade over a period of 6 weeks. The injections are not pain free but usually cause only minor discomfort.

Preparing for sclerotherapy

You should prepare for sclerotherapy as follows:

Do not use moisturizer for two days prior to treatment.
If you have TED stockings bring them with you. If not, you will be measured for a pair on the day.
Allow 45 minutes for the appointment and a further 30 minutes for a walk immediately following the appointment.

Procedure of sclerotherapy

Prior to commencing the injections, we will discuss which veins will be treated and the expected realistic outcome of the treatment. Usually only one leg is treated in the session.

Once the veins have been injected they are covered with a gauze dressing and tape. When the procedure is finished the leg is bandaged and a compression stocking (TED stocking) is put on.

Why only one leg is treated per session

Usually the full appointment (30 minutes is allowed for the injections) is needed to administer enough injections to adequately treat the veins in one leg. If both legs are treated in one session the results will not be as significant as only half the number of veins can be treated. This can result in a disappointing outcome if the desired results are not achieved.

Double appointments can be requested at the time of booking so that both legs may be treated. However, it is important to remember the procedure is not pain free and for this reason we recommend one session at a time.

Care after treatment

Walk after the treatment for 30 minutes and everyday (not including walking around the house) for 7 days.

Leave the stocking and dressings on for 3 days. After 3 days you can remove the stocking & dressings, and then wear only the stocking during the day for a further 4 days (7 days in total).

A review appointment with the practice nurse is made for two weeks.