Foam Sclerotherapy
What is Foam Sclerotherapy?
Foam sclerotherapy is a method of injecting solution to ultimately reduce and remove varicose veins. Varicose veins are enlarged, sometimes twisted veins that most often develop in the leg. They can be hereditary, tending to run in families. They can be worse during or after pregnancy, or if you are overweight.
Usually only takes about 30-45 minutes
Little to no recovery time required
Usually doesn't cause pain
Results in minor discomfort during treatment and only minimal bruising compared with surgery
Procedure & Recovery:
Foam sclerotherapy is usually carried out under local anaesthetic and as a day case procedure meaning you will go home the day of the procedure. A solution is mixed with air creating a foam. Your surgeon will inject this foam into the affected vein. If your vein is very deep, your surgeon may use ultrasound to guide the injection into the correct area.
The foam begins to react immediately with the vein wall. It causes inflammation within the vein and pushes out any blood in the area. The walls of the vein become sticky and eventually close off the vein. Over several weeks or months, your varicose vein will shrink and disappear.
Your leg may be sore for a few days following foam sclerotherapy. You should remain mobile during your recovery - walking each day. Try to avoid long periods of standing, kneeling, squatting, bending or strenuous exercise for 4-6 weeks.
