Sclerotherapy

Used primarily in the treatment of spider veins and small varicose veins, sclerotherapy involves injecting a “sclerosing” agent into the vein using a very fine needle. This chemical solution irritates the vein tissue, causing the lining of the vein to swell, harden and eventually seal off. Sclerotherapy can reduce or eliminate both the appearance and any discomfort caused by spider veins.

Discomfort

You may experience some mild discomfort during the procedure. This should subside when the procedure is completed. You may resume normal activity with some exceptions immediately following treatment.

Expectations

You will wear compression stockings for 1 week after the procedure. You may have redness and/or bruising after the procedure. It may take up to 6 weeks for the spider veins to resolve. We will evaluate results at that time.

Generally, you can expect a 50-90% improvement of treated spider veins.

Pre-Procedure Instructions

Pre-Procedure Instructions

Please consider and follow these pre-procedural instructions prior to your procedure at MercyOne Iowa Heart Vein Center.

What to Wear

Wear comfortable clothing. You may want to bring a pair of loose fitting shorts with you to wear
during the treatment.

Shaving, etc.

Legs should not be shaved the morning of procedure. Shaving can leave streaks, which can make spider veins difficult to see.

Avoid the use of lotions or moisturizers, as the tape used during the procedure may not stick as needed.

Bring compression stockings to the appointment or you will need to purchase them here (available at the West Des Moines office only). They must be worn after the procedure to ensure optimal results. We recommend 20-30 mmHg compression stockings be worn for 1 week after treatment.

Medication

If you are taking any type of blood thinner, please notify us prior to your appointment.

Post-Procedure Instructions

Post-Procedure Instructions

Now that your procedure is complete, you may resume normal activities with the following exceptions and suggestions.

Following Treatment

Immediately following the procedure, walk at a normal pace for 20-30 minutes to circulate the injected solution through the treated vessels.

The morning following treatment, remove stockings and any cotton balls. You may shower, then put compression stockings back on; they should be worn during the day for 1 week.

Activity

No heavy lifting, running, heavy aerobics, tub baths, hot tubs or swimming for 1 week following your sclerotherapy procedure. UV and/or sun exposure should be avoided for one month after treatment. Air travel is not advised for 48 hours after treatment.

Pain Management

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories are recommended for any discomfort associated with treatment.

It is not unusual to experience sensitivity or bruising in the treated area.

Questions or Concerns?

Contact MercyOne Iowa Heart Vein Center office at 515-633-3666 or 877-413-VEIN.

West Des Moines Office Hours 8:00 am – 4:30 pm, Monday – Friday

As a courtesy to our staff and other patients, if you need to cancel or reschedule your procedure for any reason, please do so at least one week prior to your scheduled appointment.

Am I a Candidate?

Determine if you are at risk for developing or already have symptoms for venous disease.