A foam version of sclerotherapy solution is used to treat varicose veins because this covers more surface area than the liquid solution used with spider veins. It is combined with gas to create a shaving foam-like texture that is injected into the vein, using ultrasound is used to guide the needle.
The foam spreads along the vein, causing it to scar and close. Several injections of foam may be needed: approximately 50-80% of injected veins can be destroyed in a session.
Treatment is performed in a clinical environment, following a detailed consultation and physical examination to assess your suitability for treatment and to check for venous insufficiency. Details of the procedure, recovery, potential outcomes and cost will be explained in full.
It can depend on the size and number of varicose veins, together with your general medical condition. Some patients only need one treatment session; others may need follow-up sessions for additional injections to treat any veins that the foam did not reach first time. Each session lasts around one hour.
It can take up to three to six weeks to see results with small varicose veins, and three to four months with larger ones.
You may require several treatments before the vein fades, and there's a chance the vein may reappear. Please bear in mind that new varicose veins can develop, for instance due to hormonal changes, pregnancy, weight gain or if you are on your feet all day at work.
Foam sclerotherapy treatment is carried out under local anesthesia. You may feel a little discomfort when the veins are injected. Some patients say they feel a brief cramping sensation when larger veins are injected.
You can walk around after treatment – in fact, moving your legs is encouraged to prevent blood clots forming. (For this reason, you need to wear compression stockings for about two weeks.) You can resume regular activities right away but should avoid vigorous exercise for a fortnight, as well as sun exposure.
Foam sclerotherapy treatment may not be advisable if you have ever had deep vein thrombosis.
When treating varicose veins, it is vital to ensure that there are no underlying health problems.
At Vein MD, we take a holistic approach to ensure the correct treatment through the highest standards of technology and clinical care.
You will receive a detailed consultation by a vascular surgeon to assess the appropriate treatment regime in a tailored plan. This may include having ultrasound to check for venous insufficiency.
At veinMD, we provide both in-person and virtual consultations by our highly qualified vascular surgeons, while treatments and procedures take place at a veinMD center.
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