Sclerotherapy - How Does It Work?
Sclerotherapy is the injection of telengiactasia, venulectasias or reticular veins with a solution that is a sclerosing agent that causes irritation and collapse of the unsightly vessels.
During treatment, very small needles are used to inject the veins. The patient feels a tiny pinch much like that of an ant bite. It is well tollerated and gives very satisfactory results blanching the smaller spider veins away.
The majority of patients are satisfied with two to five sessions according to the extent of the area to be treated. Each session can last up to 30 minutes. A yearly touch up is recommended because there is a tendency to develop new ones.
Side Effects of Sclerotherapy
| Common Side Effects | Patients may feel tenderness, discomfort, or itchiness at the area of treatment which may last a few days. Bruising can also occur lasting approximately one week. Bruising and discomfort may go away sooner with Arnica, a homeopathic herb that lessens post-operative pain and discomfort and promotes healing. |
| Less Common Side Effects | Hyperpigmentation: can last from 4 months to one year. Allergic Reaction could occur with any type of sclerosing agent. |
| Uncommon Side Effects | Skin Ulcerations: less likely to occur with the use of polidocanol. Can take several month to heal and can leave a small scar with discoloration. |
Sclerosant Solutions
Several different sclerosant solutions can be used. It is important that the doctor knows what strength to use for each vessel and apply the appropriate technique.
The most commonly used are: Sodium Tetradecyl Sulphate (STD), and Polidocanol.
Hypertonic saline seems to be falling out of favor because of
the increased chance of ulcerations if injected out of the vessel.
