I've heard a lot about sclerotherapy and how effective it is in treating cosmetic vein problems. What is the benefit of adding ultrasound technology to sclerotherapy? Is it worth the additional cost?
The only reason to use ultrasound guidance is to identify a vein that cannot otherwise be visualized without ultrasound guidance. If the vein(s) can be visualized, there is no need for ultrasound guidance, especially if there is an additional fee.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Adding Ultrasound guidance to sclerotherapy does allow the physician to see what veins are feeding the small spider veins and concentrate treatment where it is most therapeutic, limiting side effects as well.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Yes. One has to image the underlying truncal veins to ensure they are not insufficient...if underlying veins are treated then the cosmetic results will be better in the long term.
Also..ultrasound guidance is helpful in treating smaller reticular veins feeding the spider veins. This way there is less chance of matting or recurrence when treating cosmetic surface veins.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
It is only helpful for larger not readily visible veins. Otherwise you don't need it
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Spider vein sclerotherapy as well as reticulars do not require ultrasound assistance. There are light sources such as the Vein Lite and the Syrus System that aid in treating these veins without the need for ultrasound. Larger, deeper veins that cannot be seen on the surface would benefit from ulrasound. Also, if varicose or larger reticulars or perforators are the problem then ultrasound guidance would be helpful.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
For spider veins that wouldn't be necessary (nor feasible). Ultrasound guidance is used for bigger abnormal veins beneath the skin that are not visible. Ultrasound is also useful before treatment to uncover an underlying cause such as saphenous vein reflux. This is especially important if you have any symptoms of venous insufficiency: pain, swelling, aching, heaviness +/- varicose veins. One leading cause for treatment failure of spider veins is that there is an underlying leaking vein (which would be seen with ultrasound).
For larger veins it is often necessary to use ultrasound guidance to confirm the placement of the sclerosant and to help prevent complication.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
For spider veins that wouldn't be necessary (nor feasible). Ultrasound guidance is used for bigger abnormal veins beneath the skin that are not visible. Ultrasound is however useful before treatment if you have any symptoms of venous insufficiency: pain, swelling, aching, heaviness +/- varicose veins. One leading cause for treatment failure of spider veins is that there is an underlying leaking vein (which would be seen with ultrasound).
Published on Jul 11, 2012