LEG VEIN REMOVAL
Treatment of Leg Blood Vessels - Sclerotherapy
Commonly Asked Questions
1. What is sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a technique involving the injection of a fluid into veins to
eliminate unwanted blood vessel of the legs. Occasionally the injection is combined
with laser therapy. The LYRA Laser is
the latest advance in this area.
2. What fluid is used?
Hypertonic saline, a concentrated salt solution for superficial veins, and/or aethoxy-sklerol for deeper veins.
3. How does this work?
The fluid is introduced into the blood vessel with a very fine needle. The fluid
irritates the blood vessel wall causing it to contract. Gradually over the next
three to four weeks the blood vessel is re-absorbed and disappears.
4. How successful is sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy of fine veins is usually very successful with most vessels disappearing completely. Sometimes a laser is used in conjunction with this treatment.
Multiple
treatments are often required.
If deep varicose veins are present then the patient may require a doppler ultrasound
study and perhaps surgical intervention.
5. Where is the procedure performed?
Treatment usually only takes 15 to 20 minutes and is done in Dr Lanzers rooms
as an out-patient. There is no down-time and patients can resume normal activities
afterwards.
6. What risks are involved with the procedure?
Risks are minimal and may include bruising, rusting, infection, or swelling
of the ankles. Pigmentation or inflammation of the veins may occur but usually
settles within a few weeks. Sometimes a network of tiny pink blood vessels develops. This can also be treated as well. Very rarely ulcers have been reported that
heal with a flat scar. A deep vein thrombosis after injection of the deep veins
has also been reported, especially if patients sit for long periods after aethoxy-sklerol
injection. Most people however, are able to return to work immediately, although
one would expect redness and inflammation to last one or two days.
7. What happens after the procedure?
If deep veins have been injected, you will need to wear compression stockings
(eg.. Leg support stockings, any brand with lycra support can be used although
Grade 1 or Grade 2 graduated compression would be best), keep mobile and make
sure you do not sit for more than 30 minutes at a time for the rest of the day.
8. What is the cost of the procedure?
Each session of sclerotherapy costs $300 and depending on the veins to be injected
you may be able to claim about $70 from Medicare. If the laser is used in conjunction,
then the session will cost $350.
9. Who performs the treatment?
Dr Lanzer or one of his associates performs treatment in the consulting rooms.