Sclerotherapy
Center for Varicose Veins
Board Certified Vascular and Interventional Radiologist & Diagnostic Radiologist located in Wilton, CT & Fairfield, CT
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins and spider veins that permanently destroys these unhealthy and unattractive blood vessels. If you have problem veins, Board-Certified Vascular and Interventional Radiologist Vinay Madan, MD, and his team at Center for Varicose Veins in Wilton, and Fairfield, Connecticut, can help. They have considerable experience in using foam sclerotherapy to treat varicose veins and spider veins to restore the health of your legs and improve their appearance. Call Center for Varicose Veins today to find out more or use the online booking form to schedule an appointment.
Sclerotherapy Q & A
What is sclerotherapy?
​Sclerotherapy is an injectable method of treating varicose veins, spider veins, and venous malformations. Dr. Madan uses ultrasound imaging to see the underlying veins so he can deliver and monitor the injection.
Dr. Madan often performs sclerotherapy aided by ultrasound guidance after diagnosing venous abnormalities and varicose veins using duplex ultrasound.
Why might I need sclerotherapy?
You might need sclerotherapy if you have varicose veins or spider veins, which are typically caused by a circulatory problem called chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). CVI develops when the valves that enforce a one-way system around your veins don't function as they should.
Instead of all the blood traveling to your heart from your feet and legs, some seeps back through the faulty valves and pools in your veins. The result is unsightly veins and symptoms such as:
- Itching
- Fatigue
- Burning
- Leg pain
- Tingling
- Heaviness
- Soreness
- Throbbing
- Cramping
- Night cramps
- Restless legs
- Swollen legs
- Discoloration of the skin around the veins
You're more at risk of getting varicose veins if you're overweight or obese, or pregnant. Standing for extended periods on a regular basis, not exercising enough, and traveling long distances can also increase your risk of vein disease.
CVI is a chronic condition and can be progressive, so early detection and treatment are important. An ultrasound scan is the only certain way to diagnose vein disease and ensure you get the right treatment.
What happens during a sclerotherapy session?
​During ultrasound sclerotherapy, Dr. Madan injects a sclerosant liquid or foam into the diseased veins. The sclerosant irritates the inside of your vein, making it collapse. Your body then absorbs the treated vein, and it eventually fades away.
Dr. Madan can deliver multiple injections during your treatment, but if you have a lot of spider or varicose veins, you might need more than one sclerotherapy session.
Sclerotherapy is an outpatient procedure at Center for Varicose Veins. It requires minimal downtime and most patients return to their regular activities straight away, although you should avoid strenuous exercise, hot baths, and alcohol for a few days.
Dr. Madan can advise you when you can resume your usual exercise program.
If you have varicose veins or spider veins, call Center for Varicose Veins today to find out more about sclerotherapy, or book an appointment online.