Treating Spider Veins Through Foam Sclerotherapy

Individuals in the Bend, Oregon area and other parts of the country have found relief from spider veins and small varicose veins through foam sclerotherapy. This is a procedure that involves injections of a chemical sclerant into the affected area to destroy problem veins. It is considered safe, effective and rather inexpensive compared to other procedures. Patients should consult their vein specialist before making a decision as to which procedure or treatment to receive, but are encouraged to explore foam sclerotherapy with their doctor.

This is a non-invasive procedure that may be performed in a doctor's office or outpatient clinic. The procedure begins with the application of the topical anesthetic so the treatment area may be numb for the procedure. With the area numb, the vein specialist will inject the sclerosing foam used in this procedure into the treatment area where it will irritate the vessel lining, causing it to shrink, collapse and eventually disappear entirely. Ultrasound technology is used to verify that the foam spreads effectively throughout the treatment area.

Most treatments take around 30 to 45 minutes and patients may require only one session of foam sclerotherapy, although some may require multiple sessions. Similarly, some patients may require just one injection, but depending on the size of the treatment area, more than one injection of the sclerosing foam may be required with each session to reach optimal results. Following treatment, patients may be allowed to return to work or resume other normal activities immediately. A brief recovery period may be required, however. If the legs are treated, compression stockings may be worn for a few days to aid in the healing process and promote healthy blood flow.

As with just about any medical procedure, there are certain risks that have been associated with foam sclerotherapy. This includes a higher risk of microembolisms, which are tiny blood clots that may form in the treatment area. Itching, redness and bruising are also associated with foam sclerotherapy, although these should resolve within a couple of days on their own. Patients who are interested in this procedure are encouraged to first discuss the possible risks and complications with a trained vein specialist in the Bend community.

As spider veins are typically considered a cosmetic concern, insurance may not cover the cost of this procedure. However, if larger veins are involved, the procedure may be covered. Patients are encouraged to consult a vein specialist and their insurance company to determine if the procedure will be covered. The price of foam sclerotherapy may range from $200 to $500 per session, although this may vary depending on geographic location as well as the extent of the area requiring treatment.

Learn more about foam sclerotherapy in Bend, Oregon.