Benefits of Foam Sclerotherapy vs. Sclerotherapy

For those suffering from spider veins and small varicose veins in Shawnee Mission, Kansas and around the country, treatment may be an urgent goal. There are several non-invasive and minimally-invasive treatments available at vein clinics and doctor's offices, but which is right for you? It's important to consult a vein specialist in the area to determine which treatments and procedures may and may not be right for you, but going into consultation with a bit of background knowledge on certain procedures may be helpful in achieving a more helpful discussion.

Sclerotherapy is among the most common treatments for the removal of spider veins. The procedure involves the injection of a chemical sclerant, which irritates the vessel lining, causing the vein to collapse, shrink and eventually disappear entirely. Patients are typically allowed to return to work immediately after treatment, although compression stockings may be recommended for a couple of days after treatment to aid in the healing process and help promote healthy blood flow.

A liquid formulation may be used in some sclerotherapy treatments, but in foam sclerotherapy, a foam formulation is used. The foam formulation has a few advantages over the liquid formulation, although patients should seek consultation with a medical professional in the Shawnee Mission area who is familiar with the treatments to help determine which treatment or procedure is right for them. For one, the foam formulation is more easily viewed on ultrasound, and is thus easier to track and evaluate. The foam formulation is also more effective in displacing blood in the vein and allows for greater direct contact with the vessel lining.

Individuals with certain blood or cardiovascular problems may not be considered candidates for foam sclerotherapy, as well as women who are pregnant. Otherwise, men and women who have spider veins or small varicose veins who wish to find relief may be considered a candidate. It is very important to discuss one's candidacy for this or other treatments before undergoing the procedure. Patients may be satisfied with their results after just one treatment, although some may require additional sessions of the treatment to achieve desired results.

There are certain risks and complications that have been associated with foam sclerotherapy including a higher risk of microembolisms, which are tiny blood clots that may form in the treatment area. Itching, redness and bruising may also be present following the treatment, although these should resolve within a day or two of the treatment.

Learn more about foam sclerotherapy in Shawnee Mission, Kansas.