In ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy, ultrasound technology is used to reflect a visual image of the underlying unhealthy vein so our Washington DC varicose vein doctor can precisely deliver and monitor the injection of a chemical solution that works to close off diseased veins. This type of sclerotherapy pinpoints the damaged deeper veins and allows for a great amount of accuracy and effectiveness when treating veins that are not clearly visible from the surface of the skin.
The ultrasound guided sclerotherapy procedure begins with the patient lying down on the office examination table. Next, a gel is applied to the area on the legs that will be observed. The ultrasound “transducer” is then moved back and forth across the area to allow the most visualization possible. This is a usually a painless process, however, sometimes the physician must add pressure to the transducer in order to get a clear picture, which can cause some people some temporary mild discomfort.
After our spider vein doctor in the Washington DC metro area identifies the treatment site by ultrasound, the unhealthy affected veins are injected with a sclerosing solution, which causes the vein to collapse. The sealed off vein is unable to accept blood flow, and the body eventually absorbs the treated vein or veins. This minimally invasive procedure is performed in the doctor’s office and typically takes less than 45 minutes.
After the treatment, the patient wears compression stockings and is able to walk right out of the office and can continue normal activity. Any bruising following this type of procedure is minimal and short-lived. The effects of reduced discomfort due to the side effects and the unsightly appearance of bothersome spider and varicose veins are long lasting. Contact us today to see if ultrasound guided sclerotherapy is right for you.
