Sclerotherapy is the technique
of injecting the unwanted varicose veins with a solution
that causes a chemical irritation to the vein wall.
This causes the vein wall to form a scar, which eventually
blocks the flow of blood, redirecting the blood to
healthy veins.
What
are varicose and spider veins?
These are veins that are often seen
on the thighs, around the knees, on the calves and
around the ankles. They can be bluish and/or purplish-red
in color. They do not serve a purpose, in terms of
tissue oxygenation, and are the result of increased
pressure in the deeper veins.
How
long does the sclerotherapy procedure take?
After your initial consultation
and evaluation, a treatment plan will be suggested.
We will discuss with you the estimated number of treatments.
Treatment will depend upon the type and extent of the
varicose or spider veins to be treated. It is important
to remember that the number of sessions can only be
estimated, since every one responds differently to
sclerotherapy. A treatment session for spider veins
can last up to 1 (one) hour and involves multiple injection
sites.
Is
the procedure painful?
In general the only pain associated
with the procedure is that which is caused by the needle
sticks. However, this is minimal since very small,
fine needles are used. The solutions rarely, if ever,
cause pain when injected. However, when larger veins
are treated, there is often an inflammatory reaction
along the vein that can cause some redness and soreness
for several days. This is normal and often a sign of
a good response. Any discomfort is usually relieved
by compression and the need for taking even mild painkillers
is rare.
Where
is the procedure performed?
Sclerotherapy is performed as an
outpatient procedure at Munroe Regional Medical Center
by one of our Center for Vascular Health's Interventional
Radiologist. For more information or to schedule an
appointment, please call Radiology Associates of Ocala's
Center for Vascular Health at (352) 671-4252.
