The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting.
After marking (marking) the veins to be sclerosed, the skin is treated with an anesthetic cream, which reduces the feeling of pain from the injections.
The patient lies on his back, with his legs raised to 30 degrees. A sclerosant (a substance that scleroses varicose veins) is injected with a thin needle. In rare cases, after the injection, the patient may experience a slight burning sensation at the injection sites for a short period of time.
The sclerotherapy process is performed under ultrasound control and begins after the foam is injected into the vein. Within a few weeks, the vein shrinks and its walls completely adhere to each other. After a few months, the vein disappears from the body.
After the injections, rubber or cotton pads are fixed over the sclerosed veins and compression stockings are put on. After the procedure, it is recommended to walk 2-3 km at a brisk pace. Then the patient can return to his usual life, trying to walk periodically (or at least move his legs and feet) periodically.
The duration of the foam sclerotherapy procedure is from 30-45 minutes.
Depending on the diameter of the sclerosed veins, it is necessary to wear compression hosiery of the first or second degree of compression (without removing it!) around the clock for one to four weeks. In each specific case, the doctor informs the patient about the duration and degree of compression.
With very severe varicose veins, the main part of the treatment is carried out during the first session. Additional sclerotherapy of the remaining varicose veins is performed after 5-7 days.
Sometimes bruises or compactions are observed at the sites of foam injection, which gradually disappear on their own and without special treatment.