GVMH Offers New Treatment for Spider Veins

Golden Valley Memorial Healthcare is pleased to offer  Sclerotherapy, a treatment for spider veins. The newly developed, clinically tested procedure is available at GVMH in an outpatient setting as part of the new Comprehensive Vein Treatment Program.

WHAT IS SCLEROTHERAPY?
Sclerotherapy is an injection treatment used to eliminate “spider” veins.  Spider veins are superficial telangiectasias, tiny vessels that are red, blue or purple in color.  The majority of these veins present as a cosmetic problem.  Insurance companies consider this a pure cosmetic treatment and generally do not cover sclerotherapy. 

HOW DOES SCLEROTHERAPY WORK?
A very small needle specially designed for sclerotherapy is used to inject a sclerosing solution into a spider vein.  Different solutions or solution strengths may be used depending on the type and size of the vessel.  Once injected the cells that line the vein wall (endothelium) will become irritated.  External compression is applied with prescription compression hose which causes the vein walls to seal together.  Your body will then break down and absorb the vein over several weeks.  When healing is complete, the vein is no longer visible.  The process is very similar to how your body heals a bruise.  Spider veins do not have any useful function and eliminating them will not affect your circulation.

HOW MANY TREATMENTS ARE NEEDED?
The number of treatments needed varies from patient to patient depending on the type, size and quantity of veins to be treated.  Spider veins may require multiple injection sessions. Subsequent treatments are usually scheduled to allow time for the body to respond to the treatment; your doctor will recommend timing for your treatments.  It is important to realize that the best results require patience.  It takes time for your body to respond to the injections.  It is important to follow the post-treatment instructions to optimize your results.  Your body will continue to heal and fade injection sites for weeks or months after treatment.

After your initial screening exam, your doctor will give you an estimate as to the number of treatments that may be required.  This is based on the doctor’s assessment, as well as your history and expectations.  You may end up needing fewer or more treatments than the surgeon estimated.  It is important to discuss your expected outcomes with your doctor and to keep them realistic.  Your doctor will do everything possible to meet or exceed your expectations.  It is very important not to use lotion on your legs prior to the treatment for three days.

Follow-up – Your doctor will advise you when you may return for more treatments. It is important for the physician to assess the results

WHAT CAN BE EXPECTED?
Your legs will look worse before they look better.  After the vein is treated, the body needs time to heal.  Most people will notice a dramatic improvement approximately four weeks after their initial treatment.  Maximal improvement often takes several months and several treatments.  There is no guarantee that sclerotherapy will be effective in every case.  Some veins and areas will need to be retreated.  Recurrence of the same vein treated rarely occurs with proper injection technique and compliance with post-treatment instructions.  New spider veins may form requiring subsequent treatment.  Periodic re-evaluations are encouraged so that any new veins that develop can be injected before they become too large or numerous.

WHAT ARE THE PAYMENT OPTIONS?
Cash, Credit Card or CareCredit (apply online at www.carecredit.com)

WHAT ABOUT A FREE CONSULT?

You can schedule your free sclerotherapy consult by calling 660-890-8471.