What is Asclera and How Does it Treat Varicose Veins and Spider Veins?

Updated on: August 18, 2014

Varicose veins and spider veins are typically considered troubling for those in the Tom's River, New Jersey area as well as other parts of the nation. Both conditions may lead patients to feel embarrassed because of their unsightly appearances, while those who are experiencing varicose veins may also feel pain and heaviness as a result of the condition. Not surprisingly, many seek relief from these conditions at various vein clinics and facilities in their area. One treatment that is currently used in Europe and was approved by the FDA for use in the United States in 2010 is Asclera.

This is an injectable agent that is used to treat varicose veins that are one to three millimeters in diameter, or spider veins that are less than a millimeter in diameter. This treatment irritates the interior vein walls, which causes them to constrict and close so that blood flow is no longer possible. This effectively eliminates the swelling associated with these venous conditions, as well as the bulging, discomfort and discoloration. The treatment may be used to treat spider veins or small varicose veins in the lower extremities.

Asclera has anesthetic properties, which may actually mean the treatment is more comfortable for patients. Before receiving treatment, those interested should consult a Tom's River vein specialist to help determine their candidacy for the treatment. Most men or women experiencing small varicose veins or spider veins may be considered candidates for this procedure. Those with certain blood conditions or vascular problems, however, as well as those who are taking certain medications may not be considered candidates. What's more, pregnant women are not considered good candidates for treatment. This procedure should not be performed on patients with known allergies to polidocanol or any other ingredients of this treatment. Patients should reveal any medical conditions or medications before receiving treatment.

The treatment area is first cleaned before Asclera is administered. A topical anesthetic may also be applied to numb the injection site. The entire procedure takes about 30 to 45 minutes to perform depending on the size of the treatment area. An outpatient setting is typically used to perform this procedure. Most individuals are allowed to resume normal activities or return to work right after the procedure. Compression stockings may be prescribed when leg veins are treated to help aid in the healing process.

Most patients notice results after one to three treatments. Patients may be evaluated within a few days of treatment. Some may require more treatments to receive optimal results, although the number of treatments needed varies. Patients are encouraged to seek consultation with a trained vein specialist to determine the approximate number of sessions required.

As with any injection sclerotherapy treatment, there is a risk of scarring or skin breakdown present. There is also a small risk of infection involved with treatment using any sclerosing agent. It is important that patients discuss the possible risks and side effects of Asclera with a trained vein specialist before receiving treatment.

Learn more about Asclera in Tom's River, New Jersey.

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