Sclerotherapy

Purpose of the Procedure

Sclerotherapy is a procedure to treat varicose veins. A provider injects small amounts of hardening solution into the vein using a thin needle. The solution irritates the vein lining, which causes it to harden and then collapse and seal shut.

Before Your Procedure

• Bring your prescription compression stockings to your appointment.
• You may eat and drink as normal.
• Certain medications cannot be taken prior to this procedure; your doctor will provide instructions if you need to adjust your medication.
• Consider showering before your appointment as you cannot shower for 24 hours after the procedure.
• Do not bring children with you to your appointment. For their safety children are not allowed to accompany you in the exam room. Staff are unable to monitor children.

During Your Procedure

A team of imaging technologists and provider (doctor, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner) will explain and perform the procedure.

• The veins may be located with ultrasound and marked on the skin prior to procedure.
• The treatment area is cleaned with an alcohol-based solution.
• Provider guides a small needle into the vein using ultrasound guidance.
• The hardening solution is injected into the vein through this small needle.
• The number of injections depends on the size and location of your veins.

After Your Procedure

• A team member will assist in placing on the compression stockings you brought to your appointment.

Care Following Your Procedure

• Wear the compression stockings day and night for 3 days after the procedure. Removing only to shower.
• After 3 days, you will wear the stocking for another 7 days. Removing only to shower and at bedtime.
• You may shower 24 hours after the procedure.
• No baths for 3 days. Avoid pools, lakes and hot tubs for 1 week.
• Maintain a normal level of activity. Walk at least 30 minutes today. Continue to do this daily for the next 7 days to promote healing. Avoid weight training or running for 10 days.
• Do not sit or stand for long periods of time for the first week.
• Elevate your legs at least 3 times a day for 5-10 minutes for the first week.
• Some discomfort and/or bruising are normal.
• You may apply warm packs for 30 minutes, 3 times a day to help with pain and aid healing.
• Follow-up care is a key part of your health. Be sure to make and go to all appointments and call your primary care provider if you have questions.
• Please call The Vein Center office if you have any questions
  • From Tuesday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., call 320-257-8346
  • Outside of those hours, call 320-534-5339 to message our on-call provider