Many shy away from receiving treatment for varicose veins because they believe they have to choose an invasive, surgical option such as vein stripping. But modern vein treatments are minimally invasive! They’re quick enough to be done during your lunch break, and you can get right back on your feet to your daily life. Learn more about ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy, one of our treatment options.
About the Treatment
Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy is a simple and unique procedure that removes unsightly or unhealthy veins without stripping them. First, a specialist uses ultrasound to identify and target the affected vein, and a needle is then used to directly inject a sclerosing agent. As this is done, the needle’s position is meticulously monitored with ultrasound imaging to ensure that it’s in exactly the right place. The vein collapses, leaving it for the body to absorb with minimal discomfort. Veins generally respond after two or three treatments! Patients can enjoy long-term, cosmetically-appealing results.
The Science Behind the Foam
The sclerosing agent is mixed with a gas, which creates a mousse or foam full of small air bubbles. When an agent is injected into a vein by itself, it’s immediately diluted by blood and loses some potency. However, foam is not diluted by blood. When injected, the foam pushes the blood out of the way and displaces it in the vein. The air in the air bubbles is quickly absorbed from the veins, leaving the agent to attend to the damaged vein. The agent causes a chemical reaction, and the vein shrinks and collapses.
How to Prepare Before Treatment
There isn’t much preparation required for this procedure, but if you’re taking any medications, make sure your doctor is aware; they will talk to you about any of your over-the-counter drugs, prescriptions, vitamins, or supplements. On the day of the procedure, don’t put on any lotion or sunscreen before coming into the office. Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, or other anti-inflammatory drugs for two to three days beforehand.
Is This The Treatment For Me?
Ultimately, the only way that you’ll know if you’re eligible for this treatment is by scheduling a consultation with a specialist. They can address your concerns and assess your vein health, and they walk with you every step of the way to ensure you’re comfortable and knowledgeable. However, if you are pregnant, it will be best to choose another procedure. If you’ve had a blood clot in the past, or if the affected vein is potentially usable for a future heart bypass surgery, you may not be a good candidate as well.
All of our procedures are minimally invasive — you’ll find no painful vein stripping here! If you have questions about ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy or one of the other procedures we offer, we’d be happy to see you at the Central Florida Vein & Vascular Center. As the best vascular physicians in Orlando, we provide patients of all ages with the most advanced, minimally invasive treatments. Contact us today at 407-545-3385 or 352-658-5547 to find out how we can help you.
