Compression Sclerotherapy

Compression sclerotherapy, commonly referred to as simply "sclerotherapy", is a procedure which involves the injection of a sclerosant (medication used to scar the vein walls) into the problem vein. Techniques will vary from physician to physician but all employ the use of a compressive dressing after the injections are completed to help the vein to "seal" off completely. At The Vein Center, a prescription support stocking is applied after the procedure and is not to be taken off for a varying period of time depending on the size of the vein, pressure in the vein, etc. In many cases, the varicose veins may be treated in one treatment session though more severe cases may require further treatment. Once sclerosed, the body will slowly shrink the vein until it is no longer visible. Following the procedure, it is possible to have a temporary "tannish" or brown discoloration of the skin along the course of the vein though this should be minimal in the hands of an experienced sclerotherapist.

Any underlying reflux (either in the groin or behind the knee) must be corrected prior to undergoing compression sclerotherapy. If this reflux remains untreated, either the injections will fail completely, the veins will re-open over time, or new veins will develop at a much faster rate.

Options for treatment of valvular reflux include EVLT, Closure, and high ligation. These procedures are described in more detail under their own headings and are used to treat only the reflux or leaking through the valves. While pressure will be considerably reduced in the remaining varicose veins following these methods of treatment, compression sclerotherapy will still be necessary to eliminate the veins completely.

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