Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy

Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy is suitable for the treatment of small to medium varicose veins. It is usually used together with Endovenous Laser Ablation.  

The larger blue veins in the picture are an example of varicose veins suitable for treatment with Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy. It is suitable for the treatment of small to medium sized varicose veins. It is usually used together with Endovenous Laser Ablation or Radiofrequency Ablation but sometimes is the only treatment necessary. The procedure is performed by our Vein Physician and one of our Sonographers. Under ultrasound guidance the doctor then guides a fine needle into the centre of the vein and injects a precise amount of solution causing the vein to close off. The procedure involves minimal discomfort. Usually 6-8 injections are required and it takes 15-30 minutes. You will need to wear a compression stocking for 2-3 weeks after the treatment and walk for 45 mins each day while wearing the stocking.

This is an outpatient procedure and you will be able to return to work the same day. Heavy exercise should be avoided for 4 weeks. One week after the initial treatment you will have another ultrasound assessment and you may need more Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy treatment. There will be a further two more of these ultrasound reassessments, one after 4 months and the final assessment one year after the initial treatment. See FAQS.

How does it work?

The solutions used in Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy are called Sclerosants. The inside lining of the vein is made up of protein and fat. The Sclerosants used in Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy are a special detergent that breaks down the lining of the vein wall, causing the vein to collapse and trapping some blood in the vein. Over time the trapped blood and the fragments of the treated vein are absorbed into the tissues. This takes a few weeks for small veins to many months for larger veins.

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