VARICOSE VEIN SCLEROTHERAPY

General Information

DEFINITION--Use of a special injected chemical solution to collapse veins so that they no longer carry blood.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Veins in the legs, usually on the backs of the calves or on the insides of the leg. Spider veins (superficial, small veins in skin) usually form a linear, discrete or grouped pattern.

REASONS FOR SURGERY

• To relieve symptoms of varicose veins (swelling, distortion or twisting of a vein) such as pain, aching, fatigue or swelling of feet and ankles.
• As a follow up treatment following varicose vein removal (see in Surgery section).
• As an early treatment to prevent the development of larger veins.
• To improve cosmetic appearance of the legs.

SURGICAL RISK INCREASES WITH

• Obesity.
• Smoking.
• Excess alcohol consumption.
• Adults over 60.
• History of thrombophlebitis, deep-vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.

What To Expect

WHO OPERATES--General surgeon, family doctor, dermatologist.

WHERE PERFORMED--Outpatient surgical facility, doctor's office.

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

• Before surgery: Normally a physical examination is sufficient, but your doctor may perform a tourniquet test to evaluate the problem or special x-rays (venography).
• After surgery: None expected.

ANESTHESIA--None required.

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• A special solution (called a sclerosant) is injected into the vein or veins. This causes inflammation in the lining of the vein, and eventual fibrosis (scar tissue formation), which leads to the vein's obliteration. The blood is forced to reroute itself through healthier veins. Complete treatment may take several injections.
• After injection, firm pressure is applied so that the walls of the vein are pressed together.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Varicose veins may recur.
• Infection or skin reaction at the injection site.
• A brown discoloration of the skin may occur that usually fades but in some cases may be permanent.
• Tenderness along the course of the treated vein.
• Dilated capillaries may develop adjacent to the treatment site.

AVERAGE HOSPITAL STAY--Usually none.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Expect complete healing without complications. Allow several weeks for recovery, although it may take one or more months in some cases. Recovery is dependent on the size of the vein and post-treatment compression.

Postoperative Care

GENERAL MEASURES

• Keep your leg elevated whenever possible. Use a foot rest when sitting.
• Bathe or shower as usual.

MEDICATION--Usually none required. You may use non--prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, for minor pain.

ACTIVITY

• Most activities can be resumed immediately.
• Walk as often as you can to help circulation in the legs.

DIET---No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

† Pain, swelling or redness occurs in the treated area.

• Your foot becomes cold, numb or discolored.
• You develop signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness, general ill feeling and fever.