Sclerotherapy
for Varicose and Spider Veins
Before .................................After
.

Before...................................After
Today thousands of people who have
felt self conscious or embarrassed by unsightly spider veins of the legs
are delighted with the results they are getting from
sclerotherapy treatment.
What is sclerotherapy
?
Is the process painful ?
Are there any side effects following treatment?
What causes Spider Veins ?
Can spider veins be prevented ?
How costly is Sclerotherapy and will insurance pay for
the procedure ?
What
is sclerotherapy?
It is a procedure in which a physician using a syringe with a tiny needle,
injects a small amount of a solution directly into a spider vein. The
solution displaces the blood within the veins thus causing it to blanch
or turn white. The solution then causes the vessel to become irritated
and swell shut prohibiting the blood from re-entering the vein. Following
the injection a compression stocking is usually applied to the sight to
prevent post injection bleeding and to promote healing. Each spider vein
may require several injections and most will disappear within 3-8 weeks
after the treatment. Back to top
Is
the procedure painful?
Patients who have had sclerotherapy have reported little discomfort. Some
experience a slight to moderate burning sensation immediately after the
injection, but this disappears. Back to top
Are
there any side effects following treatment?
Most patients experience no side effects. However, some minor side effects
have been reported. These include slight blistering which occurs when
small amounts of the solution seeps into the surrounding skin areas. These
blisters tend to heal rapidly. Occasionally, a small dark area of pigmentation
resembling a freckle may remain. These spots, however, usually resolve
in time or respond to treatment with bleaching agents.
Bruising around the treated area, which eventually disappears can result
if the veins are unusually weak. Clots sometimes develop at the sight
of the injection. Although never a major cause of concern these clots
may be removed within 2 weeks. Swelling occasionally occurs particularly
in those patients whose jobs require standing or sitting for long periods
of time. Back to top
What
causes Spider Veins?
No one has determined for certain why some people are affected by spider
veins and some are not. However, some families seem predisposed to the
condition. Trauma to the leg in the form of blows or falls may contribute
to the formation of these veins. More women than men seem to develop this
condition perhaps, at the result of pregnancy or because of hormones.
Back to top
Can
spider veins be prevented ?
Scientists have not discovered any clear cut methods to prevent the onset
of these telangiectasias. However, some authorities have discovered that
use of support hose, weight control and exercise may be beneficial. Back
to top
How
costly is Sclerotherapy and will insurance pay for the procedure ?
The cost of sclerotherapy treatment varies and is directly related to
the amount of time the physician must spend at each session. Although,
this procedure is covered by many insurance plans, patients should check
with their insurance companies to determine if Sclerotherapy is included
in their coverage. Back to top
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