Sclerotherapy is a treatment for venous insufficiency. It can be used to remove superficial spider veins. The procedure involves a special solution that is injected into the affected vein. The solution irritates the vein walls, causing them to collapse. The vein is gradually absorbed into the surrounding tissue and disappears. The blood automatically travels to other healthy veins.
The main benefits of sclerotherapy are:
• A high success rate
• The treatment is quick and is usually done as an outpatient procedure
• There is no overnight stay in the hospital
• There is very little discomfort and it only lasts for a few minutes
• The appearance of the leg is improved
• Blood flow is improved and swelling is reduced
There are two types of sclerosants that are approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). One is a detergent and the other is ASCLERA. Research shows that they are both equally effective. However, Dr. Mimi Lee uses ASCLERA to ensure patient comfort.
Venous insufficiency is a disease in which the veins do not push blood from the feet back to the heart. This happens mainly because the valves inside the affected vein become weak and do not help to push the blood along the vein. When the blood does not move, it starts to pool in the vein, causing it to bulge and twist. It swells and becomes a blue or purplish color.
If you believe that you are developing spider veins or if they are already apparent on your legs, you can benefit from a consultation with Dr. Mimi Lee. She can examine your veins and tell you the different options for treatment. While the veins may not yet be apparent, you may be experiencing symptoms of venous insufficiency.
Heredity is the most common cause of spider veins, but other causes include:
• Hormonal changes, such as menopause, pregnancy and birth control pills
• Obesity that puts excess pressure on your legs
• A sedentary lifestyle where sitting is the main activity
• A job where long periods of standing is mandatory
After the sclerotherapy procedure, it is important to keep the treated area out of direct sunlight for a few weeks. You may also be asked to wear compression stockings for some time. It may take a few weeks until the affected vein is completely absorbed by the surrounding tissue and you achieve the effect you want.
Sclerotherapy is becoming the most popular treatment for spider veins because it is a short procedure, usually just taking 15 to 20 minutes, and is very safe. Patients have also reported only minimal discomfort during the treatment.
To learn more about the benefits of sclerotherapy, make an appointment to speak with Dr. Mimi Lee at her office in the Pavilion Centre in Little Rock. She will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have about this treatment. Contact her office today to schedule your consultation.