VARICOSE VEINS

Ultrasounds are a non-invasive test, no needles are involved. Ultrasound imaging involves applying high frequency sound waves via a transducer to produce pictures of the inside of the body. Vascular ultrasound provides real time images of blood flowing through veins and arteries.

This is is a method whereby an irritating solution is injected into the vein.

Sclerotherapy using a solution used in this practice to inject into spider veins. It has been used widely throughout the world and providing that it is used properly, it is very safe. Sclerosant is fully registered in Australia.

Nevertheless, as with any other solution injected, there are possible side effects. These include the following:

Allergic reactions including anaphylaxis.
Pigmentation (brown staining) of the overlying skin. In most cases, this disappears within a year. In order to minimise this side effect we advise you not to take any iron supplements before, during and for 3 months after the course of treatment.
Ulcers. These are rare and tend to be small and heal within weeks. More rarely, these can be larger and may heal with pigmentation.
Phlebitis. Inflammation of the veins that may present as tender red lumps along the line of the treated vein.
Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT) +/- Pulmonary embolus (PE). This is when a clot develops in the veins. It is a very rare occurrence particularly when sclerotherapy is accompanied by compression and regular walking. It may be an underlying sign of prothrombotic tendency, therefore initial ultrasound mapping and medical history taking appointment is booked to avoid complications to procedure.
New Vessel formation. This is the development of fine red blood vessels near the sites of injection. It occurs especially on the thighs. It is reported to occur in approximately 10% of patients. Future sclerotherapy may not be suitable for you if this occurs.
Following the sclerotherapy, you will be required to wear your compression stocking immediately. Please remember to BRING YOUR COMPRESSION STOCKING for any consultation.

You should prepare for sclerotherapy as follows:

Do not use moisturiser for two days prior to treatment.
If you have TED stockings bring them with you. If not, you will be measured for a pair on the day.
Allow 45 minutes for the appointment and a further 30 minutes for a walk immediately following the appointment.

Prior to commencing the injections, we will discuss which veins will be treated and the expected realistic outcome of the treatment. Usually only one leg is treated in the session.

Once the veins have been injected they are covered with a gauze dressing and tape. When the procedure is finished the leg is bandaged and a compression stocking (TED stocking) is put on.

Usually the full appointment (30-40 minutes is allowed for the injections) is needed to administer enough injections to adequately treat the veins in one leg. If both legs are treated in one session the results will not be as significant as only half the number of veins can be treated. And amount of medication/sclerosant used for the procedure.

Walk after the treatment for 30 minutes and everyday (not including walking around the house) for 7 days.

Leave the stocking and dressings on for 3 days. After 3 days you can remove the stocking & dressings, and then wear only the stocking during the day for a further 4 -7 days.

A review appointment is made for two weeks.

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Please call to book an appointment for consultation and ultrasound mapping and treatment options discussion. No referral needed. Private billing’s only. Please call the centre for more information. Procedures performed on certain days of the week only.