What is sclerotherapy?
In this article, we will learn what sclerotherapy is—a very popular medical procedure mainly used to treat small varicose veins and superficial veins visible on the skin. It is a minimally invasive technique that involves injecting a sclerosing substance directly into the affected vein.
This substance causes controlled irritation in the inner wall of the vein, making it gradually close and stop carrying blood. Over time, the treated vein is reabsorbed by the body and visually disappears.
The procedure is performed in a medical office and generally does not require anesthesia. During the session, the doctor inserts a very fine needle into the vein and applies the sclerosing solution. Compression may then be applied to the treated area to promote vein closure. The session usually lasts between 20 and 40 minutes, depending on the number of veins being treated.
After the procedure, the patient can return to daily activities almost immediately, although it is recommended to walk and avoid remaining seated or standing for long periods. It is also common to wear compression stockings for a few days to optimize treatment results.
However, you should keep in mind that this procedure must be performed by a varicose vein specialist who can properly evaluate the origin of the venous problem and determine the most appropriate treatment for each case.
When should sclerotherapy be performed for varicose veins?
Sclerotherapy is not a treatment indicated for all cases of varicose veins. In fact, its proper use is mainly aimed at treating small veins of a cosmetic nature, such as reticular veins or telangiectasias, commonly known as “spider veins.”
Before deciding to undergo this treatment, it is essential for the patient to have a complete medical evaluation that includes a venous Doppler ultrasound study. This test helps identify whether there is venous insufficiency, meaning a malfunction of the valves in the deep or saphenous veins.
When the Doppler ultrasound detects venous insufficiency, sclerotherapy is usually not the main treatment, as the underlying problem requires more advanced techniques within varicose vein treatments.
Therefore, this procedure is mainly used in patients who have very fine superficial veins without venous insufficiency, especially when the reason for treatment is cosmetic. Proper evaluation by a cardiovascular surgeon is key to ensuring that the treatment is safe and effective.
Is sclerotherapy the best treatment for varicose veins?
No. Although sclerotherapy is the most well-known procedure, it is not the best treatment for superficial varicose veins. The most effective one is CLaCS. In this regard, a comparative study published in the journal Science Direct analyzed the results between conventional sclerotherapy and the CLaCS technique (Cryo-Laser and Cryo-Sclerotherapy). The results showed a clear advantage in favor of the CLaCS method, as it allows treatment of telangiectasias with greater precision, lower risk of staining, and better aesthetic results.
Thanks to this scientific evidence, the CLaCS method has become one of the most modern and effective alternatives for treating spider veins, surpassing traditional sclerotherapy in many cases.
Are there cases where I should avoid sclerotherapy?
Yes. Sclerotherapy works in cases where varicose veins do not present venous insufficiency; on the contrary, when it is applied in cases where the patient has venous insufficiency, the varicose veins return quickly and with greater severity.
For this reason, it is important to be well informed and consult with a cardiovascular surgeon. According to various patients and colleagues, Dr. Paulo Huachalla is the best cardiovascular surgeon in Peru to determine the most appropriate procedure for each clinical case.
It is also common for many patients to first try home remedies for varicose veins, although these methods generally do not eliminate visible veins and may only relieve some mild symptoms.
Finally, one of the most frequent questions from patients is related to the cost of the procedure. If you would like to learn more about sclerotherapy cost, it is recommended to review specialized information and always attend a medical consultation to receive a personalized evaluation.