Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to treat varicose veins and “spider veins.” Sclerotherapy involves an injection of a solution (generally sodium chloride) directly into the varicose vein. The solution irritates the lining of the vessel, causing it to collapse on itself. Over time, the vessel fades from view. Sclerotherapy is a well-proven procedure that has been in use since the 1930s to treat varicose veins.

Sclerotherapy works well for most clients with varicose veins. It is estimated that as many as 50 percent to 80 percent of injected varicose veins may be eliminated with each injection session. 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.

Less than 10% of clients who have sclerotherapy on their varicose veins do not respond to the injections at all. In these instances, different solutions or a different method, such as laser therapy, may be tried.  In general, spider veins respond to sclerotherapy in 3 to 6 weeks, and larger veins respond in 3 to 4 months. If the veins respond to the treatment, they will not reappear. However, new veins may appear over time. If necessary, you may return for injections.