Sclerotherapy as a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins

Varicose veins are a common problem. Both men and women can feel self-conscious about these swollen blood vessels, which can cause pain, discomfort or itching. While older vein stripping methods were invasive and often painful, with long recovery times, today’s treatments have improved greatly. As technology advances, techniques such as sclerotherapy have become fast, highly effective and much more comfortable.

What is sclerotherapy?

About 20% of American adults suffer from varicose veins, and many consider sclerotherapy as a possible solution. During this quick procedure – usually less than an hour – a doctor injects medications directly into the affected vein.

After the injection, the vein forms scar tissue and collapses. The blood flows through healthy veins when the treated vein breaks down. Over time, the body will reabsorb it, causing it to disappear. Some veins may require two or three treatments, but each treatment is minimally invasive.

Advanced sclerotherapy with ultrasound-guided foam

Sclerotherapy techniques continue to evolve, and some clinics, such as Central Florida Vein and Vascular Centernow offer ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy.

With this technique, doctors use real-time ultrasound to find and inject deep veins, usually in the legs. A foam mixture pushes blood to healthier blood vessels so that the drug can treat the vein wall more effectively.

Sclerosants, the type of drug used to close veins, are also becoming more sophisticated. New medications such as Varithena reduce the risk of side effects, such as headaches or visual disturbances.

Is sclerotherapy effective and safe?

Because it is a minimally invasive procedure, most people with spider veins or varicose veins can benefit from sclerotherapy. It has a success rate of between 80% and 90%making it a very effective treatment. It is considered a safe procedure for most people, although it is not recommended during pregnancy.

Consulting a specialist is the only sure way to know if you are a good candidate for sclerotherapy. You will normally be given a venous reflex test to aid in initial diagnosis. This is a quick and painless ultrasound examination, which determines the extent of the venous insufficiency causing the varicose veins. Your doctor will use this to determine which treatment is best.

What to expect before, during and after the procedure

For two to three days before treatment, avoid ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory medicationsas well as antibiotics and nutritional or herbal supplements. Do not shave or apply lotion to the affected area.

During your treatment appointment, doctors will disinfect the affected part of the body and the doctor will inject the solution into the vein. For deeper veins, specialists can use ultrasound to guide them. For surface veins, visual inspection is often sufficient. The entire procedure usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. Most patients feel only a mild needle scratch.

After the procedure, avoid hot baths or showers, strenuous exercise, and applying lotion for 48 hours. Do not use anti-inflammatory medications during that period. Your doctor may recommend compression stockings for a few weeks to help prevent swelling.

After the procedure, patients may experience mild pain, itching, or swelling at the injection site, which usually subsides quickly. Some bruising or spots on the skin may occur, and the latter may last for some time. Some people experience headaches or visual disturbances. Serious complications are rare, but always seek medical advice if you are concerned.

What is the best treatment for varicose veins in Orlando?

Treatment options in Orlando depend on your individual diagnosis and the techniques available at the chosen clinic. As with any medical procedure, the doctor’s experience and expertise are important. Check the details carefully when selecting a venous treatment center.

Dr. Horowitz, the founder of the Central Florida Vein and Vascular Center, is one of only a few hundred physicians nationwide to hold Diplomate status with the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine, marking him as a leading specialist in the field.

This center offers a wide range of treatment options, including:

• Sclerotherapy
• Ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy
• Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT)
• Venaseal therapy
• Microphlebectomy

Your doctor will determine the best treatment after an initial consultation and diagnostic ultrasound examination.

With four convenient locations and a reputation for excellent patient care and follow-up, Central Florida Vein and Vascular Center stands out as a leader in vein care.

Frequently asked questions about sclerotherapy

It is normal to have many questions about a medical procedure. Here are some of the most common questions people ask.

How many treatments do I need?

This depends on the number and size of the veins to be treated. Some may disappear after just one treatment, especially with ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy. However, others may require two to three sessions, spaced several weeks apart.

Are the results of sclerotherapy permanent?

The treated vein usually does not return. However, this does not prevent new varicose veins from developing in the future. If signs of venous insufficiency persists, your doctor may advise you on lifestyle adjustments to minimize the risk of recurrence.

What is the difference between sclerotherapy and EVLT?

Both treat varicose veins, but in different ways. While sclerotherapy uses a chemical to close the vein, EVLT uses laser heat to do this. Specialists like those at Central Florida Vein and Vascular Center often use both, sometimes followed by EVLT with sclerotherapy to ensure comprehensive treatment.

Is varicose vein treatment covered by my insurance?

Insurance coverage varies, so check your plan for more information. However, venous insufficiency – the leading cause of varicose veins – is a progressive medical condition. The diagnostic examination for this is almost always reimbursed by insurance and after diagnosis many private healthcare providers will reimburse the treatment. However, your provider may require you to try conservative treatments first, such as compression stockings.

A clear path to vein health

Modern treatments for varicose veins have gone far beyond the invasive treatments of the past. Options such as sclerotherapy and ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy offer a minimally invasive, usually painless treatment with very high success rates. If you want to undergo treatment, choosing a dedicated specialist is the most crucial factor. Book a consultation with a certified doctor in a specialized vein center and take the next step towards healthier legs.