Sclerotherapy is a simple and effective technique utilizing a safe chemical to encourage the body to make varicose and spider veins disappear over time.
Endovenous ablation handles the problematic underlying larger “trunks”. However, the laser is unable to deal with very twisty or tiny veins. For this reason, the next course of action is sclerotherapy: the injection of such veins with a chemical to cause permanent vein closure. Veins below the surface that are large but too tortuous for laser treatment can be treated with ultrasound guided injection. Small, very superficial veins are often treated with the aid of specialized lighting and magnifying lenses.
The chemical Dr Rosen uses in sclerotherapy sessions is called sodium tetradecyl sulfate (STS). STS has been in use since the 1940’s and is extremely popular world-wide. Its popularity among treating physicians is due to its safety and effectiveness. It is in a class of medications called “detergent sclerosants” and it is exactly what the name suggests: a mild soapy detergent substance. As with all treatments and medications, side effects are possible, but with STS they are fortunately very rare. Dr. Rosen has a detailed discussion with each patient prior to their procedure informing them of the benefits and risks involved. Questions are encouraged!
Sclerotherapy sessions typically take 30 minutes. Dr. Rosen uses very tiny needles to access the problematic veins and gently deliver STS. The number of injections and number of sessions needed varies based on the amount of veins requiring treatment.
All treatments at Rosen Vein Care, including sclerotherapy, are performed solely by Dr. Rosen. Unlike many vein clinics in the area where your sclerotherapy may be provided by a nurse or physician’s assistant, at our clinic Dr. Rosen (certified by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine) will use his expertise and state-of-the-art equipment to provide you with safe, effective and comfortable care.
The injections are very well tolerated and anesthetics are not needed. Once the treatment session is completed, compression stockings are placed and are worn on the treated extremity until the next treatment session. It’s important to realize that optimal results are achieved often after a period of MONTHS. The sooner you see Dr. Rosen in consultation, the sooner the treatment process can begin.
