Spider & Varicose Veins

What are they?

Spider veins are formed by the dilation of a small group of blood vessels located close to the surface of the skin. Although they can appear anywhere on the body, spider veins are most commonly found on the face and legs. They usually pose no health hazard but may produce a dull aching in the legs after prolonged standing.

Varicose veins are abnormally swollen or enlarged blood vessels caused by a weakening in the vein's wall. They can be harmful to a patient's health because they may be associated with the development of one or more of the following conditions: Phlebitis (inflamed tender vein); Thrombosis (a clot in the vein); and Venous Stasis Ulcers (open sores from inadequate tissue oxygen and fluid retention).

Who Develops Spider and Varicose Veins?

The exact cause of spider and varicose veins is unknown, although heredity, pregnancy and hormonal influences are believed to be primary factors contributing to both conditions. More than 20 percent of women have some form of varicose conditions, and more women than men have varicose veins.

What is Sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is considered the gold standard treatment for removing spider and some varicose leg veins. It is a very cost-effective procedure that seldom leaves a scar or produces adverse effects. It is typically performed on an outpatient basis by a dermatologist. A concentrated saline or specially-developed chemical solution is injected with a very small needle into the spider or varicose vein. The solution causes the vein to close up or collapse and become scar tissue that is eventually absorbed by the body. The work of carrying the blood is shifted to other healthy blood vessels nearby. 

Sclerotherapy generally requires multiple treatment sessions. One to three injections are usually required to effectively treat any vein. The same area should not be retreated for four to six weeks to allow for complete healing, although other areas may undergo treatment during this time. 

Post-treatment therapy includes wearing bandages and support hose for two days to three weeks following treatment. Walking and moderate exercise may also help speed recovery. Although sclerotherapy works for existing spider veins, it does not prevent new ones from developing.

Are there side effects & complications?

Most patients report few, if any minor side effects, which usually disappear in time. Temporary reactions can include a slight swelling of the leg or foot, minor bruising, itching, redness and moderate soreness.

What are other Treatments for Vein Conditions?

• Laser Surgery
  Laser therapy and intense pulsed light therapy may be effective for certain leg veins and facial blood vessels. The heat from the high-intensity laser beam selectively destroys the abnormal veins.

• Electrodesiccation
  The veins are sealed off with the application of electrical current. The treatment may leave scars.

• Surgical Ligation and Stripping
  Certain varicose veins may require an in-hospital procedure, usually performed by a vascular surgeon, that involves making an incision in the skin and either tying off or removing the damaged blood vessel.

• Ambulatory Phlebectomy
  Removal of undesired veins through a series of tiny incisions along the path of an enlarged vein.

• Combined Approaches
  Your dermatologist may utilize a combination of techniques and
  technologies to provide an optimal treatment program for your individual condition and lifestyle.