Sclerotherapy Treatment in Delhi, India

Sclerotherapy aims at treating varicose veins and spider veins. This procedure may be carried out for cosmetic reasons. People may consider sclerotherapy when other methods have failed to provide the desired results. Sclerotherapy may be considered when the veins are too twisted or uncomfortable.

Sclerotherapy help improve symptoms such as:

1. Itching
2. Aching
3. Burning
4. Swelling
5. Night cramps
6. The legs feel very heavy or tired

Doctors record the patient's medical history and family history and perform a physical examination before the sclerotherapy procedure.

1. Physical Examination

   The doctor evaluates:

   1. The involved veins
   2. Assess any pre-existing blood vessel disorder

2. Medical history

   The doctor enquires in detail about the patient's medical history and records questions such as:

   1. Existing medical conditions or any recent ailments, such as a heart condition or blood clots
   2. Medications or supplements are taken, such as aspirin, iron supplements, herbal supplements, ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, or blood thinners.
   3. Allergic to any substances
   4. History of treatment of varicose veins and its results

   Doctors may advise certain tests before the procedure. These may include:

3. Ultrasound

   Depending on the veins involved, an ultrasound imaging of the veins can be taken.

• Sclerotherapy is an outpatient procedure and typically requires about 45 to 60 minutes to complete.
• The patient lies on the table with legs slightly elevated. The area of interest is cleansed with spirit, and a fine needle is used to slowly insert the solution into the appropriate vein. The injected solution irritates the vein lining. As a result, the vein swells and obstructs the flow of blood. Some solutions may also contain lidocaine, a local anaesthetic agent.
• With time, the vein tissue scars and disappears. When a larger vein is targeted, a foamy solution may be used to cover more surface area.
• People may experience minor stinging or cramps when the needle is being inserted into the vein. The pain usually occurs when the solution leaks into the adjacent tissue from the vein. After withdrawing the needle, the area of insertion is compressed and massaged to keep the blood and injected solution from dispersing. A compression pad is sometimes taped onto the site of injection to work on other veins.

Before sclerotherapy, initial consultation with a dermatologist or vascular medicine specialist is scheduled to discuss details of the procedure. Eligible candidates are those with:

1. Healthy patients who can tolerate the treatment
2. Have cosmetic concerns about the presence of spider veins or varicosities

People who should not consider sclerotherapy procedure are:

1. Bedridde
2. Breastfeedin
3. Pregnant or have given birth in the last three months

Follow the instructions given by the doctor prior to the sclerotherapy. Some of which include:

• At the consultation visit for the surgery, the doctor shares details of the procedure and answers queries. The doctor gives the post-operative instructions to follow. A consent form for the surgery is signed at this appointment.
• The doctor reviews the medical history and enquires about any allergies or pre-existing medical conditions. The doctor may advise some blood tests before the procedure.
• Inform the doctor about any medications, supplements, and treatment being taken.
• The doctor may stop certain medications such as blood thinners and NSAIDs before the operation.
• Avoid smoking and drinking since they interfere with the procedure.
• Jewellery, metallic objects, or any other objects that may interfere with the procedure are removed.
• Empty the bladder before the procedure.
• Avoid applying any lotion or shaving your legs.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing to the scheduled appointment.
• Carry a pair of shorts for the procedure.
• Wearing compression hosiery after the procedure will provide support.

A few complications associated with sclerotherapy includes:

1. An infection which may require antibiotics to treat
2. Severe inflammation
3. Skin injury that may lead to small, permanent scar
4. An allergic reaction to the injected solution
5. Formation of blood clots

After the sclerotherapy, patients can get up and walk around. Follow the instructions given by the doctors. These may include:

1. Walk and move the legs to prevent the formation of blood clots. Constant movement improved blood circulation to the legs.
2. Wear compression stockings or bandages for approx two weeks. This helps maintain compression on the treated veins.
3. The majority of people can return to routine activities immediately after the procedure.
4. One can resume driving for a few days.
5. Avoid strenuous activities for at least two weeks.
6. Avoid sun exposure to the treated areas. The inflamed areas may interact with sunlight causing dark spots on the skin.
7. Avoid anti-inflammatory medicines for at least 48 hours after the procedure.
8. Avoid the following things for 48 hours after treatment:
• Hot compresses
• Hot baths
• Direct exposure to sunlight
9. You can take a shower, but the water should be cooler than usual. The injection sites may be washed with a bar of mild soap and tepid water.

What is sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a procedure to treat varicose veins and spider veins by injecting a solution directly into the affected veins.

How does sclerotherapy work?
The solution injected into the affected veins causes the veins to collapse and eventually disappear as the body reabsorbs them.

Is sclerotherapy painful?
Most people experience mild discomfort during sclerotherapy, but it is generally well-tolerated.

How long does a sclerotherapy treatment take?
A typical sclerotherapy session takes about 30-60 minutes.

What are the side effects of sclerotherapy?
Common side effects of sclerotherapy include swelling, brusiing and redness at the injection site. Rarely, more serious side effects such as blood clots or allergic reactions may occur.

How long does it take to see results from sclerotherapy?
It can take several weeks or even months to see the full results of sclerotherapy.

Can sclerotherapy be used to treat all types of varicose veins and spider veins?
Sclerotherapy is effective in treating most types of varicose veins and spider veins, but it may not be suitable for all cases.

Are there any restrictions after sclerotherapy?
It is generally recommended to avoid prolonged sitting or standing and to wear compression stockings for a period of time after sclerotherapy.

How long do the results of sclerotherapy last?
It can last several years, but new varicose veins or spider veins may develop over time.

What is the success rate of sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy has a high success rate, with most people experiencing significant improvement in the appearance of their varicose veins or spider veins.

Can sclerotherapy be used during pregnancy?
Sclerotherapy is generally not recommended during pregnancy, as the safety of the procedure for the fetus has not been established.

Are there any alternatives to sclerotherapy?
Alternative treatments for varicose veins and spider veins include laser therapy and surgery.

What should I expect during my first sclerotherapy appointment?
During your first sclerotherapy appointment, your doctor will examine your varicose veins or spider veins and discuss the treatment options with you.

What should I do to prepare for sclerotherapy?
Before your sclerotherapy appointment, you should avoid taking aspirin or other blood-thinning medications and wear loose, comfortable clothing.

How much does sclerotherapy cost?
The cost of sclerotherapy varies depending on the number of treatments needed and the geographic location of the doctor's office, but it typically ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per session.

FAQs reviewed by Dr. Achintya Sharma-Consultant & In-charge Vascular Surgery