What is ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy?
Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses ultrasound imaging to guide the injection of a sclerosing agent into the veins. The sclerosing agent irritates the walls of the vein, causing them to stick together and close off the vein.
Dr. Leandro Perez, a Board certified interventional cardiologist and endovascular specialists, demonstrates how the ultrasound guided sclerotherapy procedure is performed.
Why is it done?
Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy is done to treat varicose veins and spider veins. It can also be used to treat venous insufficiency, which is when the valves in the veins are not working properly and blood pools in the veins.
What happens during ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy?
During ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy, you will lie on your back with your legs elevated. The doctor will clean the treatment area and insert a small needle into the vein. The needle is connected to a tube that goes to an ultrasound machine. The doctor will use the ultrasound machine to guide the needle into the vein.
Once the needle is in the correct position, the doctor will inject the sclerosing agent into the vein. The sclerosing agent irritates the walls of the vein, causing them to stick together and close off the vein.
How to prepare for ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy?
You should wear loose-fitting clothing to your appointment. You may also need to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, before the procedure.
Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.
What happens after the treatment?
After the procedure, you will need to wear compression stockings for a few days to help with swelling and bruising. You may also need to take over-the-counter pain medication for a few days.
Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for your legs after the procedure.
If you are interested in learning more about ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy, or if you would like to schedule a consultation we would be happy to answer any questions you may have.
To request a consultation click below or call (239) 300–0586