How does Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy work?

Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy is a non-invasive, non-surgical option for treating varicose veins hidden underneath the skin. These varicose veins are known to be a chronic condition and are often painful, appearing in the legs. Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy is an extremely safe and effective treatment for improving the symptoms and appearance of small varicose vein conditions. Sclerotherapy is not a rapid miracle cure, but a gradual process, which may realistically obliterate 75% to 80% of objectionable veins.

As with any of the vein treatment options offered by AVLC, a patient has an initial consultation with our vein specialists where the doctor will help the patient decide on the best treatment plan for his/her vein health.

During the Procedure

A detailed ultrasound is performed prior to the Sclerotherapy procedure, allowing the doctor to map out all of the abnormal veins. After the ultrasound examination, the patient lies comfortably on the treatment table with the affected leg exposed. Performed under the guidance of ultrasound, the doctor injects the abnormal vein(s) with a foaming solution. This solution causes the vein walls to collapse and the vein to seal off. Patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure.

After the Procedure

After the treatment, you will remain lying on the treatment table for approximately 20 to 30 minutes. After this time, we will apply a compression stocking to the treated leg. This stocking should be worn for 24 straight hours following your procedure. Showering or bathing is permitted 24 hours after your treatment. The stockings should then be worn for 7 to 10 days following your treatment, but it is only necessary to wear them during the day. They are easily worn under pants/slacks of all types.

An AVLC specialist will review your post-treatment instructions with you, and will have you walk for 30 minutes prior to leaving our office. We will also schedule a follow-up appointment for you where another ultrasound will be performed to assess the results of the treatment.

What type of results can I expect from Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is not a rapid miracle cure, but a gradual process, which may realistically obliterate 75% to 80% of objectionable veins. Most veins will lighten and/or disappear. Upon the first treatment 60%-70% will disappear, 25%-30% will fade; 10%-15% will not change. Sclerotherapy DOES NOTyield perfect results. Improvement usually occurs, but perfection is rarely achieved. As long as you expect improvement and not perfection, you should be satisfied. Full results will not been seen for 4-12 weeks.

What are the side effects from Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy?

Certain side effects may be experienced after an Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy treatment. These include:

• Mild discomfort. Some patients experience mild discomfort in the leg that was treated. This may occur on the day of and up to 6 weeks following the treatment. Mild discomfort is caused by the hardening and absorption of the treated veins. Warm compresses may be applied to easy any discomfort.
• A common side effect, bruising disappears 2-4 weeks following the procedure and should not alarm you. This bruising represents destruction of the targeted abnormal vein(s).
• Sensitivity to sunlight. The treated area(s) may be sensitive to sunlight. You should remain sun free for 4-6 weeks to help minimize the risk of hyperpigmentation. Use a SPF 45 or higher if the treated area is going to be exposed to sunlight.

Advantages of Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy

• Many patients experience quick relief from varicose vein symptoms
• Minimally invasive
• No scarring
• Minimal pain and discomfort
• Minimal recovery period and side effects
• Results are longer lasting