Vein Treatment

Possible risks

As with any treatment, there are risks associated with it, though they are minimized in the hands of a qualified provider. These include:

• Bruising
• Raised red areas
• Small skin sores
• Darkened skin in the form of lines or spots
• Multiple tiny red blood vessels
• More severe complications rarely occur, but can include: inflammation, blood clots, allergic reaction to treatment solutions. Side effects caused by tiny air bubbles in the bloodstream may include nausea, headaches, coughing and visual disturbances.

What you should know about sclerotherapy for spider veins

The procedure is typically performed in the provider’s office. It does not require anesthesia and usually takes 15 minutes to an hour to complete depending on the extent of the veins.

Patients lie on their back with their legs slightly elevated. After the treatment area is cleansed with alcohol, the doctor or registered nurse uses a fine needle to slowly insert a solution or foam into the vein. Some patients experience minor stinging or cramps when the needle is inserted. The injection solution or foam irritates the lining of the vein, causing it to swell shut and block the flow of blood.

Once the needle is withdrawn, the doctor or registered nurse will apply compression and massage the area to keep blood out of the injected vessel and disperse the solution. For large veins, a compression pad may be taped onto the site to keep the area compressed while your doctor or registered nurse moves on to the next vein. The number of injections depends on the number and size of veins being treated.

Cost

The average cost for sclerotherapy varies by the size and number of veins treated. Since spider vein sclerotherapy is usually considered a cosmetic procedure, cost of treatment is not covered by most medical insurance companies.

Stoughton Health Costs

You will start with a 15-30 minute initial vein consult covered by insurance to determine if you are a candidate for sclerotherapy. A follow up visit will be scheduled for sclerotherapy.
Follow up visits:

• 1 vial: $125
• 2 vials: $250
• 3 vials: $375
• 4 vials: $500

What to expect after the procedure

• You can stand up and walk around immediately after the procedure. It’s important to move your legs to prevent the formation of blood clots and maximize treatment results.
• Graduated compression stockings and/or bandages are worn over the treatment area for one to three weeks to maintain pressure on the treated veins.
• Most people can return to normal activities immediately following the procedure.
• You should avoid sun exposure in the treatment area for two weeks following the procedure.

How to prepare for the procedure

Before the procedure, a certified physician or registered nurse will usually review the patient’s medical history and conduct a physical exam. This is the time for the doctor or registered nurse and patient to discuss expectations, potential risks and outcomes of the procedure. The doctor or registered nurse will examine the veins to be treated and check for any underlying blood vessel disorders. Be sure to let your doctor or registered nurse know:

• If you are pregnant. Most doctors or registered nurses recommend waiting until after your delivery to perform the procedure.
• If you have any medical conditions, such as heart disease or a pre-existing cancer or coagulation disorder.
• About any prescription or over-the-counter medicine you are taking as well as any supplements.
• If you smoke or take oral contraceptives, which can increase your risk of blood clots.
• If you have any allergies.

Contact Us

To learn more about sclerotherapy and if it’s the right option for you, please contact the Stoughton Health General Surgery Clinic at (608) 873-2266.

Sclerotherapy for Spider Veins and Varicose Source: American Society for Dermatologic Surgery