Many people are plagued with small yet unsightly clusters of red, blue or purple veins, called spider veins. They appear most commonly on the thighs, calves and ankles. In fact, it's estimated that at least half of the adult female population is plagued with this common cosmetic problem.

Today, many physicians are treating spider veins with sclerotherapy. In this rather simple procedure, veins are injected with a sclerosing solution, which causes them to collapse and fade from view. The procedure may also remedy the bothersome symptoms associated with spider veins, including aching, burning, swelling and night cramps.

Spider Veins and Varicose Veins

Spider veins - known in the medical world as telangiectasias or sunburst varicosities - are small, thin veins that lie close to the surface of the skin. Although these super-fine veins are connected with the larger venous system, they are not an essential part of it.

A number of factors contribute to the development of spider veins, including heredity, pregnancy events that cause hormonal shifts, weight gain, activities that require prolonged sitting or standing, and the use of certain medications.

Varicose veins differ from spider veins in a number of ways. Varicose veins are larger - usually more than a quarter-inch in diameter, darker in color and tend to bulge. Varicose veins are also more likely to cause pain and be related to more serious vein disorders. For some patients, sclerotherapy can be used to treat varicose veins. However, often surgical treatment is necessary for this condition.

Sclerotherapy works by irritating the lining of the vein such that the vein seals shut. It takes about 15-20 minutes and can be used to treat spider veins and varicose veins. Patients usually wear a compression stocking for a short period after treatment. Most people need a few treatments to obtain the best results. Treatments are generally done in monthly intervals.

Sclerotherapy Ultrasound-Guided

Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy is a procedure used to treat underlying incompetent veins. The ultrasound is utilized to visualize the underlying vein so the physician can deliver and monitor the injection. Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy is an alternative to vein stripping and endovenous techniques such as endovenous laser treatment and radiofrequency occlusion. It can be used to complement these other procedures.

» FIND a Sclerotherapy Physician

How successful is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy can enhance your appearance and your self confidence, but it's unrealistic to believe that every affected vein will disappear completely as a result of treatment. After each sclerotherapy session, the veins will appear lighter. Most patients notice a 50-90% improvement in the appearance and symptoms. The full effect and benefit of treatment usually takes several weeks. Two or more sessions are generally required to achieve optimal results.

You should also be aware that the procedure treats only those veins that are currently visable; it does nothing to permanently alter the venous system or prevent new veins from surfacing in the future. More Facts...

What are Sclerotherapy treatments like?

Sclerotherapy is done in an office using small needles. A variety of solutions may be used. The dosage is usually adjusted based on the size of the veins. Most patients find the discomfort of treatment to be minimal. No surgical incisions are made and anesthesia is not necessary. When a problem vein is closed off via sclerotherapy, the blood will re-route through the normal veins and flow much more efficiently.

Are there any possible side effects to Sclerotherapy?

Serious medical complications from sclerotherapy are extremely rare when the procedure is performed by a qualified practitioner. However, they may occur. Most common side effects include but are not limited to:

1. Burning/stinging/itching at the injection sites; and or muscle cramps, which usually go away within 15-30 minutes. Swelling of the injection sites or of the feet or ankles may occur. This generally resolves in a few days.
   
   
2. Areas of increased pigmentation (brown staining) may occur as a treated vein dissolves. This is usually due to iron depositing into the skin. Fortunately, pigmentation usually fades over a period of several months. However, this discoloration may remain permanent in a small percentage of cases.
   
   
3. "Matting" is an overgrowth of fine caliber red veins near the areas of injection. This may occur in up to 30% of patients, however, most go away with time or with further sclerotherapy.
   
   
4. Formation of small "burns" or ulcers, usually due to leakage of the chemical solution into the skin. These are more common when hyptertonic saline is used for the injection. They heal in time, but often leave a scar.
   
   
5. Bruising is common and usually fades away within a week or two.
   
   
6. Allergic reactions (e.g. rashes). These are very uncommon and usually self-limited. Rarely they can cause serious reactions.
   
   
7. Inflamed vein (phlebitis). This may be treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication like Ibuprofen (Advil), walking and compression stockings or bandages.
   
   
8. Tender, firm bump(s) - "trapped blood." These are areas of treated veins that have closed like a "chain of pearls." Draining the contents helps to seal the vein shut and may reduce the chance for brown discoloration. More Facts...

Does insurance pay for Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy for varicose vein and spider vein treatment are considered cosmetic by most insurance companies. Many insurance plans cover medically necessary vein treatment. Consult with your vein doctor to find out more regarding your specific case. More Facts...

Disclaimer:
This information is intended only as an introduction to this procedure. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor does it guarantee results of your elective surgery. Further details regarding surgical standards and procedures should be discussed with your physician.