Foam Sclerotherapy of Varicose veins
Foam sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to treat spider veins and varicose veins. Varicose veins result from weakened valves which keep the veins from functioning properly and allow blood to pool in the legs. Varicose veins may be not only unattractive but medically problematic. During foam sclerotherapy of varicose veins, a sclerosant solution is injected into the affected veins under the guidance of ultrasound, causing their eventual collapse. These damaged veins will be absorbed by the body, and blood flow will naturally be rerouted through other healthy veins.
Recovery from Foam Sclerotherapy
After foam sclerotherapy, most patients can immediately return work and regular activities the same day. Compression stockings need to be worn for 2 weeks after the procedure. Some patients may experience mild bruising and discoloration following sclerotherapy, but these side effects usually subside within a few weeks. The results of foam sclerotherapy are usually fully visible after 3 months. To preserve the results of sclerotherapy, patients should maintain an active, healthy lifestyle after the procedure.
Risks of Foam Sclerotherapy
While sclerotherapy is a safe procedure, there are certain risks associated with any procedure of this type. Rare complications may include the following: phlebitis, deep vein thrombosis, infection, or failure of the procedure. Most patients are very satisfied with the results of this treatment.
Foam Sclerotherapy of Spider Veins
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to treat varicose and spider veins, most commonly found on the legs. Sclerotherapy has been used on patients since the 1930s with great success, producing increasingly effective medical, as well as cosmetic, results.
Reasons for Sclerotherapy
Some of the reasons a patient may desire, or a physician may recommend, sclerotherapy may include one or more of the following symptoms:
- Pain, aching or burning sensations in the legs or feet
- Swelling or redness at the site
- Unsightly appearance
- Discomfort after sitting or standing for long periods
Individuals troubled by spider veins may choose, in consultation with their physician, to undergo sclerotherapy either because they find them unattractive or because the diseased veins are causing unpleasant symptoms.
The Sclerotherapy Procedure
During sclerotherapy, a foam sclerosant is injected into the veins. This will cause irritation in the affected veins and produce their eventual collapse. When the weakened veins collapse, they will be reabsorbed into the body and other healthier veins will take their place in the circulatory system.
Patients do not require an anesthetic and usually report little or no discomfort during the procedure. In some instances, several sclerotherapy treatments may be necessary.
Recovery from Sclerotherapy
Patients may go about their normal routine after sclerotherapy. Patients can return to work and resume normal activities, although exercise and strenuous activities are to be avoided for two days. Compression stockings usually need to be worn for two weeks after the procedure. While it may take up to three months for the patient to see full results, some improvement is usually visible within 6-8 weeks.
To promote vascular health and to preserve the positive effects of the sclerotherapy, it is recommended that patients maintain a healthy weight and make exercise part of their daily routine.
