Sclerotherapy

Spider veins occur when a capillary, the smallest of blood vessels, becomes swollen due to venous insufficiency and appears under the surface of the skin. While spider veins do not require medical attention, they can sometimes itch or burn and can make a person self-conscious about their appearance.

Sclerotherapy treatment involves injecting the problem veins with a solution that causes them to close, forming scar tissue. Eventually, the remaining scar tissue is absorbed and dissolves naturally by the body. 

Sclerotherapy has a high success rate in improving overall appearance. The treated veins may initially appear bruised or darker, but this should go away over time. Treatment sessions last 30 minutes, and the number of treatments required will depend on the severity of the problem.

Risks and complications from sclerotherapy are rare, but may include:

• Allergic reaction

• Blood clot in treated vein

• Discoloration along treated vessel (usually temporary)

• Formation of new blood vessels around the treated area

• Scabbing or scarring

Compression stockings are worn continuously for 24 hours starting right after sclerotherapy treatment. This helps reduce any swelling that may occur, keeps the sclerosing solution in the veins, and aids the healing process. It is also recommended that compression stockings be worn during daytime hours for at least one week after the initial 24-hour period. 

Other recommendations include keeping treated areas out of direct sunlight to avoid hyperpigmentation (brown staining) of the skin and to walk as much as possible after treatment.

If you experience any of the following, contact Vascular Tyler:

• Blood in the urine or inability to urinate

• Changes in color or temperature of your legs or feet

• Fever

• Problems at the incision site such as swelling, increasing pain, redness, or warmth