Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is the "gold standard" treatment for varicose and spider veins. A special sclerosing agent is injected into the diseased vein, which then collapses and is gradually absorbed by the body. By the end of the treatment program, the veins are less visible on the skin surface. Sclerotherapy usually also relieves symptoms associated with enlarged veins and prevents further complications.
Foam Sclerotherapy
Foam sclerotherapy was used in the early 1940s and fell out of use until recently, when it reemerged as an area for scientific research. Clinical studies have resulted in the refinement of the technique, which has driven it to the forefront of varicose vein treatment.
With traditional sclerotherapy, a liquid agent is injected into the vein, where it pushes blood out and injures the lining of the vein wall. The liquid is quickly diluted by the refilling blood and is transported away from the vein before it has had sufficient time to treat the problem.
Foam sclerotherapy overcomes this problem because it remains in the vein longer. In its "foamed-up" and expanded state, and with more staying power, the foam can contain a more dilute sclerosant and achieve better results than a stronger, un-foamed sclerosing solution.
Ultrasound-guided Sclerotherapy
Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy allows doctors to treat problematic veins that aren't visible on the skin surface by monitoring veins on an ultrasound screen during the sclerotherapy procedure.
Microphlebectomy
Microphlebectomy, sometimes called ambulatory phlebectomy, is a minimally invasive method of treating small varicose veins. A special hook is used to remove the vein through multiple tiny incisions that do not usually require stitches and leave minimal scarring. Recent advances have made it possible to perform the procedure using only local anesthesia and light sedation in a doctor’s office as an outpatient. After the microphlebectomy you will be asked to wear compression garments temporarily. The incisions typically heal within two weeks.
Endolaser including Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT)
Endolaser is one of the newest vein treatment technologies that eliminates the need for surgery. During an endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) procedure, a tiny fiber is inserted into the vein via a needle. Pulses of laser light cause the vein to collapse and seal shut, effectively reducing visibility on the skin surface and eliminating pain and other complications. EVLT is approved by the FDA for treatment of the greater saphenous vein, the largest vein in the body which runs through the leg. After treatment, the treated area is temporarily put in a compression bandage to keep the collapsed vein in place.
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