What is Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a popular method of eliminating varicose and superficial spider veins by injecting a solution called a sclerosing agent into the unwanted veins.

Does Sclerotherapy Work for Everyone?
The majority of persons who undergo sclerotherapy will experience a reduction or complete elimination of the unwanted varicose and spider veins. Unfortunately, however, there is no guarantee that sclerotherapy will be effective for everyone.

How many Treatments Will I Need?
The number of treatments needed to clear or improve your condition differs from patient to patient, depending on the extent of the varicose and spider veins present. One to six or more treatments may be needed; the average is four. Individual veins usually require two to three months before the full effect of the treatment is complete.

What are the Most Common Side Effects?
The most common side effects experienced with sclerotherapy are mild itching and a transient discoloration of red then light to dark-brown streaks along the course of the vein. This is usually temporary and will resolve in six to twelve months. This occurs in about 30% of patients and is called hyperpigmentation. A few patients may experience some pain and bruising, usually at the site of the injection. Less than 3% of patients experience sloughing, consisting of a small ulceration at the injection site that heals very slowly. Very rarely, a patient may have an allergic reaction to the sclerosing agent. The risk of an allergic reaction is greater in patients who have a history of allergies. Lastly, phlebitis is a very rare complication, seen in approximately 1 out of every 1000 patients treated for varicose veins greater than 3-4mm in diameter.

Are there other types of Procedures that can Treat Varicose Veins and Telangiectasias? What are their Side Effects?
Vein stripping may also be used to treat large varicose veins. This generally is performed in a hospital under general anesthesia. Risks of vein stripping include: permanent or transient nerve paralysis in up to 30% of patients, possible pulmonary embolism, infection, and permanent scarring. General anesthesia also has some associated serious risks. Because of these risks, a less serious outpatient procedure to remove varicose veins has been developed, called ambulatory phlebectomy. Ask your doctor about the pros and cons of this procedure and whether or not you are a candidate.