Procedures & Innovations
Sclerotherapy for Varicose Veins
Minimally Invasive Procedures
Sclerotherapy for Varicose Veins
Sclerotherapy is a very simple, effective, and commonly used intervention for removing varicose veins that are not too large. This procedure involves the injection of a concentrated saline or specially-developed solution into the varicose vein. The solution then hardens, causing the vein to close up or collapse. Healthier blood vessels located nearby absorb the blood flow of the collapsed vein. Sclerotherapy reduces symptoms of varicose veins and improves appearance of the skin in approximately 85% of people who undergo the procedure.
Sclerotherapy can be done without an overnight stay in the hospital and does not require any anaesthesia. The leg is elevated to drain the blood out of it, and the sclerosant (the solution used) is injected into the affected area of the vein. After the injection, pressure is applied to the area, and compression stockings or elastic bandages are worn for several days. In some cases, the procedure might require several injections during the same appointment, or at another appointment.
The entire procedure should take approximately 15 to 45 minutes.
