For those experiencing spider veins or small varicose veins in the Deerfield, Illinois area, foam sclerotherapy may be a good option to find relief. The treatment is similar to traditional sclerotherapy in that it uses a chemical sclerant to irritate the vessel lining, causing the vein to shrink and collapse. However, there are key differences, mainly in the consistency of the formulation of the sclerant. The foam sclerotherapy sclerant uses a foam formulation, while the traditional sclerotherapy treatment uses a liquid formulation. The foam formulation allows for greater contact with the vessel lining, as it is more effective in displacing blood in the vein. What's more, the foam formulation is easier to view on ultrasound.
Patients should first discuss the treatment with a vein specialist to help them determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure. Most patients who have spider veins or small varicose veins are considered candidates for the procedure. However, those with certain blood disorders or cardiovascular problems may not be considered candidates. Women who are pregnant are not candidates for this treatment, either. Patients should speak with a Deerfield specialist before treatment for more information and should share their medical history with the doctor.
The first step in the treatment process is to apply the topical anesthetic to numb the treatment area. Once this has been done, the specialist injects the treatment area using the sclerosing foam and ultrasound technology is used to ensure that it spreads effectively in the treatment area. More than one injection may be required depending on the size of the treatment area. Most treatment sessions of foam sclerotherapy take about 30 to 45 minutes to perform, although this varies. After treatment, patients may be allowed to return to work or resume other normal activities. Compression stockings should be worn for a couple of days when veins in the legs are treated. Patients should follow any recovery guidelines given to them by their Deerfield vein specialist.
Most patients are satisfied with their results after only one treatment session, although some may require subsequent treatments to reach optimal results. The FDA recently reported that foam sclerotherapy may involve a higher risk of microembolisms, which are tiny blood clots that may form in the treatment area. Other possible side effects may include itching, redness and bruising, but these should subside over the next couple of days after the procedure.
Insurance typically will not cover the treatment because spider veins are generally considered a cosmetic nuisance instead of a medical concern. If varicose veins are involved, though, insurance may cover the cost of treatment. Patients should speak with the vein specialist and their insurance company for more specific information pertaining to their plan. Each session may range in price from $200 to $500.
Learn more about foam sclerotherapy in Deerfield, Illinois.
