If you have embarrassing spider or varicose veins in Ottawa, you have several options for completely eliminating them without surgery. Sclerotherapy is a treatment that involves injecting a special solution called a sclerosant directly into the affected vein. The chemical is usually saline solution, but there are other chemicals that may be used. The solution basically damages the vein wall to make it collapse. It is gradually absorbed by the surrounding tissue and leaves behind smooth skin again. Sclerotherapy has been used successfully on more than 90 percent of patients for decades to give relief from varicose and spider veins.
Liquid sclerotherapy is the most common type. It is considered the standard treatment for spider veins, small to moderate varicose veins that are close to the surface of the skin and reticular or blue veins. Once the sclerosant is injected, it inflames the inside of the vein. Once it closes up, it becomes scar tissue and gradually disappears. The blood that was flowing through that vein will go through healthy veins in the surrounding area.
Ultrasound imaging is beneficial for people who have varicose veins deep inside their legs. These damaged veins may not even be visible on the surface of the skin. In the past, major surgery would have been the preferred treatment. This may leave scars and have a long recovery time. With the use of ultrasound imaging, an image is projected to a monitor and the practitioner can see the affected veins. Through the image, we can pinpoint the exact spot on the vein to give the injection of the sclerosant. The blood will clot and the vein will collapse and disappear just as the smaller veins did on the surface of the skin.
After the treatment at our office in Ottawa, the vein may need to be compressed. You may be asked to wear compression stockings for a set amount of time to make sure the treated vein disappears. You can continue your daily activities and will be encouraged to walk every day to strengthen the muscles that help the veins push the blood back to the heart.
When you consult with our expert at Canada Vein Clinics in Ottawa, if sclerotherapy is your best option to have smooth legs again. We have offices located in Halifax, Ottawa, Richmond Hill, Orleans, Moncton, Vaughan, Kawartha Lakes, Kanata, Dartmouth and Toronto. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
