Sclerotherapy Chicago

When you have painful, unsightly spider or varicose veins, sclerotherapy may be the treatment you need. Sclerotherapy involves an injection of a sodium chloride solution directly into the affected veins. As a result, veins become irritated, clot and eventually collapse. This treatment has been utilized since the 1930s and is still one of the most effective treatment options for spider and varicose veins.

Our experienced staff uses ultrasound imaging for the most precise and effective results possible. Sclerotherapy will get rid of your painful symptoms and eliminate the appearance of spider and varicose veins. Once the solution is injected, these veins will collapse and become scar tissue, which will eventually fade and be reabsorbed into the blood stream. This procedure can safely be completed in the doctor’s office in less than an hour.

At Veins without Surgery, we use the latest VeinViewer technology by Luminetx™. This device uses near-infrared light to replicate the vascular structures in image form. Our doctor can then easily identify the damaged veins into which the solution must be injected, allowing him to see the veins that aren’t visible from the surface of the skin to ensure the best results from your sclerotherapy

The Procedure

Your sclerotherapy procedure will take about 15 to 45 minute and will be done right in our office. There is no need for anesthesia and the entire procedure is fast and easy. Most of our patients report minimal pain, along with a minor burning sensation at the injection site. We first clean the skin with an antiseptic solution and then inject the sclerosant into the damaged veins using an ultra-fine needle. We use ultrasound images to monitor the injection and guide it into the damaged veins.

The exact number of injections necessary will depend on how many veins we are treating and how long they are. In general, one sclerotherapy injection is needed for every inch of damaged vein. After each injection, the area is covered with a cotton ball and compression tape.

Your Recovery and Results

Most of our patients are allowed to leave our office shortly after completion of the treatment. Many of them even return to work or other normal activities the same day. However, you should avoid strenuous activity and exercise for seven to 10 days. The support bandages and compression should be kept in place for several days, and pigmentation and mild bruising are common in some patients. These effects typically only last for two to three days.

If you experience bruising, it may take several weeks before you can visibly see the results of the sclerotherapy. The final results should be seen in three to six weeks.

Reports show up to 80 percent of spider and varicose veins will be eliminated after each session.

Many of our patients report satisfaction with their results. We recommend patients maintain an active lifestyle to keep the damaged veins from returning

Risks

Sclerotherapy is a harmless procedure with a long track record of success. However, there are risks and side effects patients may experience. Some of these effects include:

• Raised red areas
• Lumpy, hard veins
• Swelling
• Brown lines or spots
• Infection
• Allergic reactions

Our medical staff will discuss these potential side effects before the procedure and answer any questions you may have.

Most patients who have spider or varicose veins qualify for this procedure. However, those who are pregnant or who have experienced blood clots should not use sclerotherapy.