Treating Spider Veins with Foam Sclerotherapy

Updated on: August 18, 2014

Individuals in the Greer, South Carolina area have found relief from spider veins through foam sclerotherapy. This procedure is used by many specialists to help patients overcome spider veins and smaller varicose veins. These conditions may be embarrassing to many due to the unsightly appearance of the veins. Individuals who are suffering from varicose veins may even complain of pain and heaviness in the legs. Fortunately, many have been able to overcome these conditions through foam sclerotherapy and other treatments available at many vein clinic.

Foam sclerotherapy is an injectable treatment that's performed on an outpatient basis in a doctor's office or vein treatment clinic. It is very minimally-invasive, yet it's been successful for many patients. Before undergoing treatment those who are interested should speak with a Greer vein specialist to go over their candidacy for the procedure. Most men and women with varicose veins or spider veins are considered good candidates for treatment. Patients with certain blood or cardiovascular problems may not be considered candidates, however. What's more, women who are pregnant should not receive foam sclerotherapy.

This treatment is performed by first applying a topical anesthetic to numb the treatment area. Once the treatment area has been numbed, the specialist injects the sclerosing foam. This irritates the vessel lining, which causes the vein to shrink and collapse. Ultrasound guidance is used to make sure the treatment spreads effectively in the treatment area. More than one injection may be required depending on the size of the treatment area. Most treatment sessions with foam sclerotherapy last only about 30 to 45 minutes. 

Following the procedure patients often experience a short recovery time and can return to work or other activities immediately following treatment. If veins in the legs are treated, however, patients may be asked to wear compression stockings to help the healing process. Patients often notice satisfactory results after just one session with foam sclerotherapy, although some may require multiple sessions to reach their goals. It differs from patient to patient and those interested should seek consultation to learn more.

The FDA has reported that foam sclerotherapy is associated with a higher risk of microembolisms. These are tiny blood clots in the treatment area. Itching, redness and bruising are also possible after treatment and occur around the treatment area, although these typically resolve on their own after a couple of days.

Learn more about foam sclerotherapy in Greer, South Carolina.

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