How Does Foam Sclerotherapy Differ from Other Forms?

Foam sclerotherapy is a procedure that has helped patients in Towson, Maryland and around the country overcome varicose veins and spider veins. These are often very troubling conditions for patients due to the aesthetically unappealing appearance of these venous conditions. Those interested in foam sclerotherapy are encouraged to discuss the treatment in greater detail with a vein specialist in their area, but a basic understanding of the condition is usually helpful going into a consultation.

Like other sclerotherapy treatments, foam sclerotherapy utilizes a chemical sclerant that is injected into the problem veins. A topical anesthetic is first applied for patient comfort, and ultrasound technology is used to monitor the treatment's progress. The sclerant irritates the vessel walls, causing them to collapse, shrink and eventually disappear entirely.

The difference between foam sclerotherapy and other sclerotherapy treatments is in the consistency of the chemical sclerant. Other sclerotherapy treatments utilize a liquid sclerant, while foam sclerotherapy utilizes a foam formulation. This is more effective in displacing blood in the vein, allowing for contact with a greater surface area of the vein wall. The foam formulation is also easier to track using ultrasound technology than other sclerant formulations. Those interested are encouraged to discuss the different types of sclerotherapy with a trained vein specialist in the Towson area.

Foam sclerotherapy has been associated with a higher risk of microembolisms, which are tiny blood clots. Individuals who are interested in foam sclerotherapy should discuss this risk with a medical professional prior to treatment. Like other procedures, this treatment may cause itching, redness and bruising. These should resolve within a couple of days, however.

Candidacy for foam sclerotherapy may depend on the condition that the patient is suffering from. Small to medium varicose veins may be treated with this procedure, although patients with large varicose veins may be encouraged to seek other treatment options. Spider veins are commonly treated with foam sclerotherapy. Those with cardiovascular or blood problems and women who are pregnant may not be considered candidates for this procedure.

Recovery from this procedure is very brief and most patients are able to return to work immediately following treatment. Compression stockings may be worn for a couple of days following treatment to aid in recovery and to promote healthy blood flow. Recovery instructions may vary on a case by case basis however, and patients are encouraged to follow the instructions of their physician.

Results are usually obtainable after just one treatment, although some patients may require multiple sessions of foam sclerotherapy to reach optimal results. For more information, patients should contact a medical professional at a reputable clinic in the Towson area.
This procedure is most often used for cosmetic purposes for those suffering from spider veins. In these cases, it will not be covered by insurance. In cases where foam sclerotherapy is used to treat a patient experiencing symptoms of varicose veins, insurance plans may cover the treatment. For more information, speak with your doctor and insurance company.

Learn more about foam sclerotherapy in Towson, Maryland.