What is sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to treat varicose veins and “spider veins”. Sclerotherapy involves an injection of a solution directly into the varicose vein. The solution irritates the lining of the vessel, causing it to swell and stick together, and the blood to clot. Over time, the vessel turns into scar tissue that fades from view. Sclerotherapy is a well-proven procedure has been in use since the 1930s to treat varicose veins.

How is sclerotherapy done?

Sclerotherapy is performed in a doctor's office. Scleroterhapy is injected into a very fine needle directly into the blood vessel, using a very fine needle. The number of varicose veins injected in one session is variable, depending on the size and location of the veins, and the patient's overall medical condition.

Mild discomfort may occur, and a cramping sensation may be felt for 1 to 2 minutes when larger varicose veins are injected. The sclerotherapy procedure itself takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

What happens after the treatment?

After the treatment you will be able to drive yourself home. You may resume your regular activities and are encouraged to walk. You will be instructed to wear support hosiery or compression wraps to "compress" the treated vessels. All support items can be purchased at drug stores around the area we have a List around the areas for you when you come in.

After the procedure, avoid aspirin, ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatory medications for at least 48 hours. Tylenol may be used if needed.

Do not take hot baths or sit in a whirlpool or sauna, nor apply hot compresses or any form of heat to the injected areas for 48 hours after treatment. In addition, avoid direct exposure to sunlight (sun bathing and tanning beds) jogging, high-impact aerobics and swimming for 7 to 10 days after the procedure.

Showers are permitted, but the water should be cooler than usual. The injection sites may be washed with a mild soap and lukewarm water.

How will I know if I am a candidate for sclerotherapy?

Prior to the procedure, you will have an initial consultation with Dr. Waibel and She will tell you if you are eligible for sclerotherapy. You are not eligible for sclerotherapy if you are pregnant, breast feeding, or are bedridden. You must wait at least three months after birth before you can be considered for this procedure. You can have sclerotherapy if you take birth control pills. If you have had a blood clot in the past, your eligibility will be decided on an individual basis, and will depend on the extremity and the reason for the clot.

Veins that are potentially usable for future surgical bypass procedures (such as the saphenous vein for coronary artery bypass graft surgery) will generally not be considered for injection, unless they are already deemed unusable for bypass procedures.

Will my insurance cover sclerotherapy?

Insurance does not cover sclerotherapy when performed for cosmetic reasons. Some insurance companies cover sclerotherapy for specific medical conditions. Your insurance company may request a letter from your physician concerning the nature of your treatment. You may want to contact your insurance provider to verify coverage before you consider the procedure.