Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is the primary treatment for spider veins and small superficial varicose veins that usually appear on the legs. They less commonly appear in other parts of the body. Sclerotherapy involves the injection of a chemical solution into the spider or reticular veins through a very fine needle, typically (30 or 32 gauge). The chemical scars and collapses the blood vessel within a few seconds and takes effect immediately. The natural healing process of the body then re-routes the blood flow to other veins, and the spider vein can fade from view for several weeks. The procedure is performed using the smallest needle possible, and at Vein Specialists use Asclera to minimize the pain of injection. Patients are pleasantly surprised when they experience how painless modern sclerotherapy is.

Typically it takes 2-3 treatment sessions for gradual fading of the treated veins. Graduated compression stockings are recommended after treatment for up to a week. Dr. Magnant uses Asclera in concentrations of .5% 0.75% and 1%. Patients prefer Asclera (polidocanol) over both STS and traditional saline.** Besides noticeable cosmetic benefits, sclerotherapy may not always improve bothersome symptoms associated with spider veins, including itching, aching, burning, and nighttime cramps. Unsuccessful sclerotherapy in the past could indicate that other larger veins may need to be treated first.

Sclerotherapy is an in-office treatment used to eliminate "spider veins" - tiny purple and red veins on the surface of the skin. Using a small needle, Asclera is injected into the unsightly vessels causing them to close and ultimately fade and disappear. There is minimal to no discomfort with this treatment and no downtime.

How are treatments for spider veins performed?

Since spider veins are more superficial and smaller in diameter, the treatments are less invasive. Sclerotherapy is performed with a tiny 32 gauge needle used to inject a safe solution into the spider veins that will cause them to collapse, shrink, and disappear.

Sclerotherapy is the most effective treatment option for spider veins.