Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy (USGS)
This treatment of varicose is for small to medium-sized veins. Medication injects into the vein under ultrasound guidance. The medication causes the vein to spasm and flatten into a fibrous cord. The blood flow stops through the vein, causing it to dissolve over a period of 3-6 months. This treatment is ideal for varicose veins that are near the surface of the skin. It is also ideal for veins that are not straight enough for Endovenous Laser Treatment. EVLT and USGS may be used in conjunction, treating some veins with lasers and others with injections.
Side Effects of Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy (USGS)
After treatment, some patients may experience side effects. When treating larger veins, they may become lumpy or hard. This will clear up several months after treatment. At the injection areas, the skin may become red, bruised, or raised, but this will go away in a few days. Tiny vessels can temporarily develop at the injection sites. Fortunately, this will go away in a few months and rarely requires further treatment. Patients sometimes have allergic reactions, but they are rarely life-threatening.
Severe Side Effects of USGS
Severe symptoms include swelling or red streaks close to the groin. Sudden swollen leg or ulcers forming near the injection site. If any of these rare complications occur, contact Vincent Vein Center immediately.
Visual Sclerotherapy
Visual Sclerotherapy treats spider veins. Spider veins are tiny broken capillaries on the surface of the legs or face. Since these veins can be seen on the skin’s surface, ultrasound is not necessary to treat them. Spider veins do not always cause pain, so some patients seek removal for cosmetic reasons.
Cosmetic Procedures and Insurance
This is purely a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance. This treatment is ideal after any varicose vein treatments. Spider vein treatment is more effective after any enlarged veins underneath are treated.
What Are Spider Veins?
Spider veins are small, dilated blood vessels that become visible through the skin, often appearing blue or purple. They typically show up on the legs or face but can develop anywhere on the body. Common risk factors include genetics, age, obesity, hormonal changes, prolonged sitting or standing, and sun damage. Left untreated, spider veins can progress into more serious venous issues, causing discomfort, irritation, or even blood clots.
Sclerotherapy: The Trusted Treatment
Vincent Vein Center offers sclerotherapy, a safe and effective treatment used for nearly 100 years. During the procedure, a fine needle injects a sclerosing solution—such as saline or polidocanol—directly into the affected vein. This irritates the vein’s lining, causing it to collapse, clot, and eventually fade from view as scar tissue forms.
Treatments typically take 15 to 60 minutes and involve 50 to 100 injections, depending on the severity. Afterward, patients wear compression bandages and are encouraged to remain active to reduce the risk of clotting. Most people see results within 3-6 weeks, though larger veins may take 3-4 months.
Ready to say goodbye to spider veins? Contact Vincent Vein Center today to schedule your consultation!