Varicose veins treatment
Varicose vein treatment or sclerotherapy
Varicose veins treatment is called sclerotherapy. The procedure consists of injecting a sclerosant solution directly into the vein. As a result, the vein dry up and disappear while leaving no trace. The blood simply flows to other functional veins which is beneficial.
At our clinic, larger veins will require injections guided by fibre optic light or ultrasound. This is called Echosclerosis.
Why should I treat my varicose veins?
Treatment improves circulation as well as reducing symptoms associated with varicose veins like the heaviness, cramping, tiggling and inflammation.
In addition to aesthetic improvement, it will prevent long-term complications.
What are the side effects and complications associated with varicose veins treatment?
The standard procedure is administered with an ultra-fine needle thus making it practically pain-free. There will be bruising for 1-2 weeks. Brown patches may also appear, but they will fade over time. Unfortunately, 1 to 2% of patients will stay with a light brown skin coloration. That will looks less then the varicose itself.
Extreme complications are rare like deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and injection in a artery.
Can I promptly resume my activities (or usual routine) after the injections?
You can return to your regular activities immediately after treatment. You must, however, avoid intense exercise on that day. Don’t expose your legs to sunlight during 10 days to avoid unsightly sunspots. It is also recommended to wear compression or support stockings for a week following treatment to improve results.
What about surgery or stripping?
Stripping is a more invasive surgical technique. It consists of pulling the varicose vein out from under the skin using incisions. Previously, this surgery was routine for the treatment of severe varicose veins. General anaesthesia and a work stoppage of 2 months is required. Now it is considered a last resort.
Gladly, new technologies like the echosclerosis allow us to avoid stripping in most cases. This procedure use ultrasound to secure a foam injection of sclerosant agent that will close that non-fonctional varicose vein. Endoveinous laser is also a good option but it is expensive.
Other practical information
Most private insurances reimburse a part of the cost.The number of sessions depends on the extent of your condition. One treatment is enough for some patients, while 15 are required for others. Dr. Lafond and Dr. Mandeville will inform you at your first consultation.For severe case, echosclerosis ( procedure done at our clinic ) or laser will be the best options. We try to avoid surgery.The injections are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or patients with a history of recent deep-vein thrombosis.