Sclerotherapy
What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is the gold standard of treatment for uncomplicated spider veins. Spider veins are the small superficial telangiectasia that effect the cosmetic appearance of our legs. A solution called Asclera (Polidocanol) is injected into these vessels traumatizing the lining. The lumen (opening) of the vessel closes off over time to the venous circulation and therefore their appearance fades.
Am I a candidate for Sclerotherapy?
- If you are suffering from leg pain, swelling, bulging varicose veins, restless legs, leg fatigue, exercise intolerance and/or skin changes to the legs, then you may NOT be a candidate for sclerotherapy at this time. Sclerotherapy will not improve these signs and symptoms of venous insufficiency. Our ultrasound technician can provide a vein mapping of your legs and consult with our physician, Dr. Wrobel, for treatment of these larger diseased veins. We accept most insurances to cover these procedures.
- Most patients experience 20-80% improvement in spider vein appearance per treatment. Individual results vary depending on severity, disease progression, skin tone and number of treatments. There is no guarantee that Sclerotherapy will be effective in every case. Approximately 10% of patients have fair to poor results. Poor results indicates that the vein remains 12 weeks after injection. In very rare instances, the veins may look worse after treatment. Several sclerotherapy sessions may be necessary to achieve optimal results.
- If you have an allergy to Polidocanol, you are NOT a candidate for sclerotherapy at our office.
- If you are pregnant or breast feeding, you are NOT a candidate for sclerotherapy with Asclera.
Planning for my Sclerotherapy Treatment:
- To optimize treatment, we recommend wearing 20-30 mm Hg thigh high or full panty compression stockings for two weeks after treatment. Our office provides measurements to ensure correct sizing and quality stockings for purchase.
- Plan to avoid ultraviolet light (sun and tanning booth) to treated areas for two weeks. UV expose can cause hyperpigmentation (skin darkening) in treated areas.
- Plan to avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours.
- Wear or bring a pair of shorts to your appointment.
- Avoid blood thinning products including aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories for one week prior to treatment to reduce risk of bleeding and bruising.
- Asclera injections may cause discomfort and pain. Other adverse reactions include injection site irritation and/or itching, bruising, hematoma/thrombosis, skin discoloration or neovascularization.
- Final result takes 10-12 weeks from injection. We recommend waiting this long between treatments to ensure complete healing time.