Visual Sclerotherapy
What is Visual Sclerotherapy?
This treatment is most often used to treat spider veins visible to the naked eye and small varicose veins near the surface of the skin.
A solution is injected to irritate the malfunctioning or dilated vein. The damaged vein shrinks and closes off, turning into scar tissue which is slowly absorbed by the body. Dr Stafford only uses FDA approved medication to inject into the vessels. There currently only two FDA approved medication, Sodium Tetradecyl and Polidocanol, and Dr Stafford only gets the medication from the approved pharmaceutical manufacturer.
The goal of this therapeutic session is to close off the vein(s) that are causing your discomfort from the refluxing or pooling of blood. These conditions are either caused from problems with the valves or distension within the wall of the vein.
Why Visual Sclerotherapy?
This 2-5 treatment therapy is effective in smaller diameter veins and the results are long lasting. This minimally invasive procedure requires no incisions, and no down time. Patients return to full activity right after the procedure. No anesthesia is needed.
Will it hurt?
Discomfort is minimal. There is no downtime and patients can resume normal activity after the procedure. Compression stockings are recommended for one week.
What are the risks involved with this procedure?
Complications are rare and side effects are minor and temporary. They include slight bruising, red patches, and or spots around the injection site. Rarely some persistent bruising can occur. Dr. Stafford will discuss his recommendations and potential risks with you in detail during your consultation.
