SCLEROTHERAPY

Sclerotherapy is a well-proven procedure that has been in use since the 1930s to treat varicose veins. It involves injecting a solution, generally sodium chloride, directly into the problematic veins, which cause them to collapse. Ultrasound guidance is used for precision and accuracy.

Sclerotherapy is a safe and relatively pain-free procedure, although a minor burning or cramping sensation is sometimes experienced for a minute or two after the procedure. It is considered the 'gold standard' vein treatment and is preferred over laser treatments for eliminating large spider veins and smaller varicose leg veins. Unlike a laser, the sclerosing solution additionally closes the feeder veins under the skin that are causing the spider veins to form, thereby making a recurrence of the spider veins in the treated area less likely.

Treatments can last between 20 and 45 minutes depending on the severity of the condition. Several treatments are usually required.