Foam sclerotherapy is a procedure used by vein specialists to help patients in Jacksonville, Florida?and across the country find relief from their varicose veins and spider veins. Sclerotherapy is a procedure that uses an injectable chemical to irritate the vessel lining, causing it to harden and eventually collapse and disappear. There are several forms of the procedure including those that utilize ultrasound technology to locate the veins and guide treatment. These treatments are most effective when used to combat spider veins and smaller varicose veins. Patients with large varicose veins may be advised to seek other treatments.
Unlike some sclerotherapy methods, foam sclerotherapy uses a foam sclerosing agent. Its consistency is similar to that of shaving cream. Other forms of the treatment may use a liquid chemical instead. Being in foam form, the chemical is able to displace blood in the veins and obtain more direct contact with the vessel wall, and for a longer period of time. The foam form of the chemical is also easier to see on ultrasound, making guiding and tracking it more effective.
In performing this procedure, the physician will first apply a topical anesthetic to numb the area being treated. The physician then injects the area with the sclerosing foam. Ultrasound technology is then used to ensure the effective spread of the foam. For larger treatment areas, more than one injection may be required.
Patients interested in receiving the foam sclerotherapy treatment should speak with a medical professional at a reputable clinic to determine their candidacy for this procedure. Most patients who are suffering from spider veins or small varicose veins are considered candidates for this treatment. However, those with cardiovascular or blood problems may not be considered ideal candidates. Women who are pregnant are also not be considered candidates.
This treatment typically lasts between 30 and 45 minutes. Recovery from this procedure is very brief. Most patients have been able to return to work immediately following this procedure. If veins in the legs are treated, patients may be required to wear compression stockings for a day or two after treatment to help aid in healing. Many patients have noticed results immediately following the procedure, while in some cases repeat treatments may be required to obtain optimal results.
Possible risks associated with this procedure include a higher risk of embolisms, which are tiny blood clots that may form in the treatment area. Patients may also experience itching, bruising or redness in the treatment area, but these should go away within a couple of days. Patients should, however, speak with a medical professional at a reputable clinic regarding possible risks and side effects for any treatment.
In Jacksonville and around the nation, patients have found success through the use of foam sclerotherapy. Varicose veins and spider veins may be extremely embarrassing for those suffering from these venous conditions due to their unappealing appearance. Using procedures such as this has allowed many patients to make these problems a thing of the past.
Learn more about foam sclerotherapy in Jacksonville, Florida.
