How Ultrasound Guided Sclerofoam Relieves Spider Veins

Ultrasound guided sclerofoam is a procedure that has helped many patients throughout the Meridian, Idaho community find relief from spider veins and small varicose veins. Patients who believe they may be suffering from these conditions are encouraged to discuss their condition with a vein specialist in their area to determine if they are suffering from spider veins or varicose veins. While small varicose veins may be treated using ultrasound guided sclerofoam, those with large varicose veins may be encouraged to seek other treatment options such as VNUS or endovenous laser ablation, for example.

Ultrasound guided sclerofoam utilizing a foam sclerosing agent that irritates the vessel wall of spider veins. This causes the veins to collapse, shrink and seal shut so that blood can no longer flow through the veins, thus eliminating the embarrassing appearance of the condition. The vessel will eventually fade away entirely.

To begin this procedure, a topical numbing agent is applied to the treatment area. Ultrasound technology is used to ensure that injections are properly made along the vein. In most cases, one injection is required for every inch of vein being treated. When all injections have been administered, the specialist will bandage the area using a compression bandage. Most ultrasound guided sclerofoam procedures take between 30 and 45 minutes to perform.

Many sclerotherapy procedures utilize a liquid chemical sclerant instead of the foam consistency used in ultrasound guided sclerofoam. The foam consistency is more effective at displacing blood in the vein, allowing the sclerosing agent to come into direct contact with the vein wall. The foam formulation is also easier to identify and track using ultrasound technology. Interested patients are encouraged to discuss the benefits of the foam consistency with a vein specialist in the Meridian area to learn more.

For the most part, anybody with spider veins or small varicose veins is considered a candidate for ultrasound guided sclerofoam, although patients should disclose their medical history and any medications they are taking to a vein specialist before treatment, as certain conditions may exclude some patients from undergoing the procedure. Pregnant women should not undergo this procedure, either.

As ultrasound guided sclerofoam is a minimally invasive procedure, recovery is usually very brief and is not difficult. Most patients are able to resume their normal activities or return to work immediately following treatment. Bruising, redness and itching are common side effects, but usually resolve on their own. Compression stockings may be required to aid in the healing process and to promote healthy circulation. Patients should follow their doctor's recovery instructions to ensure proper healing. A risk of microembolisms, or tiny blood clots, may be present when using a foam sclerosing agent. Patients should discuss this possible complication with a vein specialist for more information.

Results may begin to become noticeable shortly after the procedure, although it usually takes a few days before the blood vessels completely close. One treatment is sufficient to reach optimal results for many patients, although in some cases, multiple treatments may be necessary.

Those who would like to know more about spider veins, varicose veins or ultrasound guided sclerofoam are encouraged to consult a vein specialist in the Meridian area. This is often the best resource for further information about vein related topics.

Learn more about ultrasound guided sclerofoam in Meridian, Idaho.