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Injection Sclerotherapy
This technique is the main treatment option for spider veins. Occasionally, it is used for treating certain varicose veins. The technique involves injecting a diseased vein with a chemical called a sclerosant. This chemical causes the blood vessel to close up and eventually disappear. This treatment is performed in a short office visit and is often painless.
Before the Procedure
You should not use cream or lotion on your legs on the day of treatment. No other special preparation is needed.
The Procedure
Using a very fine needle, the "sclerosing" chemical is injected into the diseased vein. In many cases the sclerosant can be more effectively administered using ultrasound guidance so as to visualize the vein. Whether or not ultrasound is required is a decision that is made on a case-by-case basis at the time of your visit. The chemical causes inflammation in the walls of the vein, causing them to swell shut and stick together. Each vein can require several injections and veins generally disappear in weeks to months. Results may continue to improve for up to one year.
The vein shrivels and is eventually reabsorbed by the body. When the needle is withdrawn, pressure is immediately applied to the area and the area is often massaged to distribute the solution. The procedure is usually painless, though you may experience a slight burning or tingling sensation. Each vein can require several injections and veins generally disappear in two weeks to two months. Most patients require multiple sessions in order to fully treat their spider veins.
