Are You a Good Candidate for Foam Sclerotherapy?

Spider veins may not cause pain, but patients in Ocala, Florida and throughout the country can attest to the embarrassment and self-consciousness often associated with this condition. Spider veins appear as thinner than varicose veins and may not cause bulging on the skin like many varicose veins. They may appear in several different patterns on the skin, including one in which the veins jut out from a central point, resembling a spider. Whatever their pattern and wherever they appear on the body, they may be considered very burdensome and treatment is often important to individuals suffering from them.

One treatment for patients with spider veins or small varicose veins is foam sclerotherapy. Before choosing this treatment, however, individuals should consult with a trained vein specialist in the Ocala area to determine if their condition is spider veins or varicose veins. Depending on the diagnosis as well as the size of the problem veins, various treatment options may be recommended. If spider veins or small varicose veins are diagnosed, foam sclerotherapy may prove to be an effective choice for treatment.

This procedure works by injecting a chemical sclerant that irritates the vessel wall, causing it to collapse and shrink. The vein eventually disappears entirely. The procedure is performed in a clinic or doctor's office in most cases. A topical anesthetic is used to numb the area being treated. The sclerosing foam is then injected into the treatment area where it will do its thing. Ultrasound is used to ensure that the chemical sclerant spreads effectively throughout the treatment area. Multiple injections may be necessary depending on the size of the area being treated. Most treatments take between 30 and 45 minutes, although this varies.

Most individuals with spider veins or small varicose veins may be considered a candidate for this procedure. Patients with certain blood or cardiovascular problems, as well as women who are pregnant are not considered candidates for this treatment. Also keep in mind that the procedure costs between $200 and $500 per session, although this may vary depending on the area being treated.

Foam sclerotherapy is often a popular treatment because recovery and downtime are usually not associated with this procedure. Patients are usually able to return to work or other normal daily activities right after treatment. If the legs are treated, compression stockings may be worn for a couple of days to help aid in the healing process.

Foam sclerotherapy differs from other sclerotherapy procedures in that instead of a liquid sclerant, a foam sclerant is used with this procedure. This allows for greater displacement of blood in the vein, as well as greater contact with the vein wall. The foam formulation is also easier to view on ultrasound than the liquid formulation. Individuals with questions about foam sclerotherapy versus other forms of sclerotherapy should seek the consultation of a vein specialist in the Ocala area for more information.

Learn more about foam sclerotherapy in Ocala, Florida..