Sclerotherapy
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In sclerotherapy, a sclerosing agent is injected into the veins using fine disposable needles. The procedure has been refined in more recent years for injecting tiny superficial veins (microsclerotherapy). The solution destroys the layer of cells that line the vein wall causing the vein to close, preventing any blood flow. Small veins fade over a period of 6 weeks or so, large varicose veins take longer.
Prominent veins frequently have to be injected more than once. In any one treatment sessions many veins may be injected. This can involve 6-10 injections for large varicose veins and some 50 or more injections for smaller spider veins. The largest and deepest veins need to be treated first. The treatment required is determined by an ultrasound examination which gives a precise diagnosis of any significant vein abnormalities. Endovenous laser ablation and ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy (UGS) can be used to treat larger varicose veins - which avoids the necessity for any surgery.