Varicose Vein Treatments:

Foam Sclerotherapy.

This is an effective new treatment for varicose veins performed under local anaesthetic as a day case. It is particularly useful for varicose veins occurring in clumps or for varicose veins that have recurred after previous treatments. After anaesthetising the skin, a needle is inserted into the varicose vein under ultrasound control, and a foam is injected which causes the vein to become sticky and shrivel up over one or two weeks.

Following the procedure, your leg will be bandaged for 7 days, and then you will wear a support stocking for a further 7 days. You will be encouraged to take short daily walks, but otherwise continue with normal activities. At around 2 weeks you will be reviewed by your consultant vascular surgeon to assess your progress. Some treated veins may become lumpy in the early stages, particularly in patients with very slim legs; this is caused by localised blood clot which can be drained through a needle in the clinic. Some varicose veins, particularly those in large clumps, may require a second session of foam sclerotherapy. There is a very small reported incidence of DVT and of transient blurred vision following this procedure. Patients with very large legs may not be suitable for foam sclerotherapy due to difficulty in needle insertion and ultrasound visualisation.

Your Consultant will be able to explain the procedure of foam sclerotherapy in detail at your consultation.