What Are Spider Veins Injected With?
What Are Spider Veins Injected With in Sclerotherapy?
Spider veins are those thin, reddish web-like patterns that develop on the surface of the skin of your legs. These veins can cause self-consciousness and embarrassment, but they are not a symptom of a serious vein condition. At The Kimmel Institute in Boca Raton, FL, we offer a number of treatment options for your vein problems.
Understanding Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a procedure that closes down damaged veins, shifting the work of blood flow to other adjacent veins. It does this by injecting a solution into the vein, to make it collapse, shifting the normal flow of blood to nearby veins in the area. A number of different types of compounds can be used to collapse the vein.
Hypertonic Saline Solution
In the past, hypertonic saline solutions (salt solution) was used, and this is still used today for some small vein problems. However, gentler, more effective compounds are now used for many sclerotherapy procedures.
Sodium Tetradecyl Sulfate
This is an FDA approved sclerosant compound that is a surfactant, much like soap. It is available in 1% and 3% solutions. Your doctor will determine the appropriate strength for your needs. STS is considered safe, reliable and effective for these procedures.
Polidocanol
Polidocanol is a non-ester compound that is approved by the FDA. It is painless on administration and has a low rate of allergic reaction. The compound is available in 0.5% and 1% strengths. Your doctor will determine the right strength for your individual needs.
Foam Sclerosants
In some cases, a gas is mixed with a sclerosant compound to make a foam consistency. This form is believed to adhere more effectively to vein walls. It is generally used for larger veins, such as varicose veins.
Recovery After Sclerotherapy
You will be able to be on your feed and walking around immediately. In fact, walking around facilitates the new avenues of blood flow. However, your doctor may advise limiting strenuous activities for up to 2 weeks after the procedure and avoid sun exposure on the treated area. You also may be advised to wear compression stockings for a period of time. After your follow-up visit in about a month, you can resume your normal activities.
Make The Kimmel Institute Your Choice For Treatment of Spider Veins
Dr. Richard D. Kimmel and the staff at The Kimmel Institute use their extensive training and years of experience to help their patients in Boca Raton and surrounding communities achieve a better appearance and greater comfort. We offer care for spider vein problems, varicose vein treatment, prominent veins on the hands, breast vein treatment and a number of aesthetic procedures. Call The Kimmel Institute today at 561-948-5560 for an appointment to learn more about effective treatments for spider veins and varicose veins.