Sclerotherapy:  An in-depth look


         First the strength of the solution is determined.  The different strengths of the
    solutions are used based on the size of the vessel.  Once selected the solution is
    injected with a tiny needle.  The injection affects the cells that line the vein wall,
    called the endothelium.  Then the endothelium will become irritated, inflamed
    and damaged.
         External compression is applied using cotton balls, tape and support hose.  
    The compression encourages the vein walls to seal together and the vein no
    longer can transport blood.  Your body will then break down and absorb the
    damaged vein.
         When healing is complete the vein is no longer visible.  The process is very
    similar to how your body heals a bad bruise.  This process can vary in time and
    some patients may require multiple treatments depending on the extent of the
    veins being treated.  Patients are required to walk for thirty (30) minutes
    following their procedure.  Long automobile trips are discouraged following
    procedures.
         Treatment sessions are carried out at 4-12 week intervals to allow enough
    time to evaluate the results of the prior treatment.  It is important to understand
    that disappearance of problematic veins can vary in time with small spider veins
    often disappearing in days and larger varicose veins taking many months to
    clear entirely.  Most patients will require several treatments to clear their legs of
    unwanted veins.
            The most common solution used is Sotradecol™ (Sodium Tetradecyl
    Sulfate), but Dr. MacMillan occasionally uses Glycerin or hypertonic saline.
  • HYPERPIGMENTATION- a light brown discoloration of the skin may develop
    along the vein in the area injected.  This reaction is lesser to the extent than
    many other sclerosin agents available.  The hyperpigmentation usually fades in
    a couple weeks, but may take several months to a year to totally resolve.
  • TELANGIECTATIC MATTING- the formation of new, fine "spider" veins in
    the area injected occurs in less that 1% of patients injected.  The exact reason
    for this occurring is unknown.  If untreated, the matting usually resolves in three
    to twelve months, but very rarely it can be permanent.
  • PAIN- it is common to have some itching or stinging at the injection site.  The
    discomfort is temporary, lasting one to at most seven days.  Acetaminophen
    (Tylenol™) can be used if needed, according to product directions.
  • BRUISING- may occur at the injection site.
  • SUPERFICIAL THROMBOPHLEITIS (STP)- characterized by swelling,
    heat, tenderness and a hard clot formation over the vein treated.  Inflammation
    and thrombus formation within the superficial veins, not the deep veins.  This
    develops shortly or a few weeks into treatment.  Compression, ambulation, and
    NSAIDS reduce discomfort and speed resolution.

  • ULCERATION AT INJECTION SITE- very rarely a small ulcer will occur at
    the site where the vein is injected.  An ulcer can take four to six weeks to
    completely heal.  A small scar may result.
  • POSSIBLE NERVE DAMAGE- can be temporary or permanent.
  • ALLERGIC REACTION- there is a very rare incidence of an allergic reaction
    to the solution injected.  You will be observed for such reaction and will be
    treated appropriately should it occur.  Please inform us of any allergic history.
  • PULMONARY EMBOLUS/DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS- a blood clot to the
    lungs/a blood clot in the deep vein.  In the medical literature there is an
    extraordinarily low incidence of this complication.
                 
    Sclerotherapy was developed over 75 years ago and today is one of the most
    common treatments for spider and varicose vein removal.
History
The Process
Rare Effects of Sotradecol™


  • FDA Approved
  • Detergent Solution - non-pyrogenic sclerosing agent
  • Minimal Pain on injection
Sotradecol™
Side Effects of Sotradecol™