Varicose veins are large, swollen veins that appear on your legs. These veins are not only unsightly, but may also be painful. Varicose veins are caused by venous reflux, a condition that causes improper blood flow from your extremities back to your heart. Valves that normally keep the blood from flowing back into your lower veins do not close properly. As a result, the blood pools in lower veins, which then swell. Sclerotherapy works by using a special chemical to destroy the damaged veins. Once the veins are destroyed, your body re-routes the blood through healthier veins.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE SCLEROTHERAPY PROCEDURE?
Sclerotherapy for varicose veins is performed at Woodlands North Houston Heart and Vein Center on an outpatient basis. Your cardiologist may administer a local or topical anesthesia to help you remain comfortable during the sclerotherapy procedure. A special solution is injected into your varicose veins using a very fine needle. The location and number of injections is determined by your treatment plan. In most cases, the sclerotherapy procedure is completed within 15 to 30 minutes.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER THE SCLEROTHERAPY PROCEDURE?
During your consultation appointment, your cardiologist discusses any limitations to your activities after undergoing the sclerotherapy procedure. You may experience mild itching and swelling at the site of the injections. These symptoms typically resolve within three days. You may also experience bruising, which may take up to two weeks to resolve.