Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a commonly used treatment for varicose veins and spider veins of the legs. This technique involves injection of a small amount of solution with a tiny needle along the course of the vein. This solution irritates the lining of the vein causing inflammation, and damage to the inside wall of the vein. This process leads to the vein closing down. This may require a number of repeat treatments. With large varicose veins a fibrous cord often forms which can be felt and may be mildly tender to touch after treatment. Circulation is improved since blood no longer stagnates in the varicose veins, but flows through healthy veins.

Sclerotherapy is done in a step-wise manner. Larger veins are treated before smaller ones, and treatment proceeds from the top of the legs downwards. Treatments are given in the office and take about ten to fifteen minutes. Patients can resume normal activities immediately afterwards.

Sclerotherapy has a success rate of about 80 to 90 percent. The veins that are injected generally do not reopen. However, new veins develop over time and so maintenance treatments are recommended.

All medical treatments have side effects and complications. With Sclerotherapy side effects are usually minor and complications extremely rare.

Laser

Despite widespread marketing of leg vein lasers, the treatment of choice for spider veins is still Sclerotherapy. Laser treatment of leg veins is best reserved for veins that are unresponsive to injection therapy. Although some spider veins do respond to laser, sclerotherapy is still considered the most effective treatment with the fewest side effects.

Surgery (Varicose Veins)

For some individuals, surgery is needed to treat varicose veins. If this is an option for you, the Doctor will let you know.

Endovenous Laser (Varicose Veins)

This is a procedure used to treat the long saphenous vein when it becomes varicose. It is an alternative treatment to surgery for some individuals. Endovenous laser is not covered by OHIP. The advantages of this procedure are: no time off from work, minimal discomfort and only one small incision.

Sclerotherapy Before and After Treatment Care

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If you would like more information, please contact Dr. Deborah Seib at
VEIN COSMETICS
(905) 712-4094