Sclerotherapy is a popular and effective treatment for both varicose veins and spider veins. It involves injecting a special solution into the affected vein. The solution irritates the vein wall and causes it to collapse. The blood flows through other veins and the collapsed vein is gradually absorbed by the surrounding tissue and disappears.
Traditionally, vascular surgeons determined the right place to make the injection by carefully observing the affected vein. This works well for veins that are easy to see on the surface of the leg. However, for varicose veins that are deeper under the skin, ultrasound guided sclerotherapy is the best option. With ultrasound imaging, the medical professional can identify the varicose vein.
Some of the main benefits of ultrasound guided sclerotherapy over other treatments are:
• It is very precise. The injection can be given at exactly the right spot because the ultrasound imaging shows the vein clearly. The solution is injected into the proper location for the best effect. This may not always be the case with traditional sclerotherapy.
• It provides quick relief. Since the procedure is done on an outpatient basis, patients can drive themselves home after treatment. Spider veins disappear almost immediately, and many of the uncomfortable symptoms of varicose veins such as swelling, heaviness, itching and aching become significantly less and disappear.
• It gives long-lasting results. The affected veins will not return. It is possible for other veins to swell, but there are things that can be done to prevent varicose veins from developing in other veins.
After the treatment, you may be encouraged to walk every day to help the muscles keep the blood flowing in your legs. We may ask you to wear compression stockings for a set amount of time after the treatment to compress the treated vein and help it disappear quicker.
Ultrasound guided sclerotherapy makes it easier to remove the large varicose veins that used to require surgery. This is because the ultrasound imaging allows the medical expert to locate the damaged vein deep inside the leg. Once the vein is located, the ultrasound helps the specialist find the exact spot for the injection.
Sclerotherapy is a safe, time-tested procedure that may help you have smooth legs again. To see if this procedure can benefit you, make an appointment at Premier Vein Institute in Tampa, Riverview or Lakeland. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for ultrasound guided sclerotherapy!
