SCLEROTHERAPY: MEDICAL TREATMENT

Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses specialized medications to seal problematic veins. While traditionally known as a cosmetic treatment for spider veins, sclerotherapy also serves an important medical purpose in treating symptomatic veins and preventing venous disease progression. The technique can effectively address both cosmetic concerns and medical conditions, depending on the specific approach and treatment plan.

Medical sclerotherapy focuses on treating veins that cause symptoms or pose health risks, while cosmetic sclerotherapy addresses visible veins that are primarily an aesthetic concern. Key differences include:

Medical Sclerotherapy:

• Treats symptomatic veins causing pain, swelling, or other medical issues
• Often covered by insurance when medically necessary
• May use ultrasound guidance for precise treatment
• Focuses on preventing disease progression
• Addresses underlying venous health issues

Cosmetic Sclerotherapy:

• Focuses on improving appearance
• Not covered by insurance
• Treats visible surface veins
• Primarily addresses aesthetic concerns
• Optional treatment for visual enhancement

This treatment effectively addresses:

• Painful or aching veins
• Veins causing leg swelling
• Early skin changes from venous disease
• Reticular veins feeding symptomatic areas
• Prevention of ulcer recurrence

Medical sclerotherapy uses specialized medications to treat problematic veins:

• Precise injections target diseased veins
• Treated veins are sealed and absorbed
• Improves circulation and symptoms
• Addresses underlying venous issues

Expert Insight: When used as a medical treatment, sclerotherapy not only improves symptoms but helps prevent the progression of venous disease by addressing problematic veins early.

Our board-certified specialists perform medical sclerotherapy with precision:

• 30-45 minute office procedure
• Walk-in, walk-out treatment
• Ultrasound guidance when needed
• Customized medication selection

Expert Insight: Medical sclerotherapy treatments are tailored to address specific venous conditions, often focusing on veins that contribute to symptoms like pain, swelling, or skin changes.

Many patients experience symptom relief within weeks of treatment. While the visible appearance of veins may take time to improve, the reduction in pain, heaviness, and swelling often occurs more quickly. Complete improvement may continue for several months as your body heals.

Most patients return to normal activities immediately after treatment. We may recommend compression stockings to optimize results and provide specific post-procedure guidelines based on your condition. Follow-up appointments allow us to monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed.

At Vascular Solutions, we understand that procedures can cause anxiety. During your initial consultation, you can discuss the option of using Pro-Nox (“laughing gas”) with your provider. Pro-Nox is a patient-controlled nitrous oxide system that helps reduce anxiety and discomfort during procedures. This quick-acting option allows most patients to drive themselves home after a brief 15-minute recovery period.

Key points to discuss with your provider:

• Your specific anxiety concerns
• Previous experiences with medical procedures
• Current medications, including anti-anxiety medications
• Medical history that might affect Pro-Nox use

Cost ($150 per treatment, self-pay)

Contact our office if you have immediate questions about anxiety management options.