Spider Veins

Treatment offered for spider veins:

Unsightly, small spider veins are a form of varicose vein disease, and often are the first signs of venous insufficiency and circulatory problems.  Sclerotherapy is a treatment used to reduce superficial spider veins that appear on the legs.  Our physician assistant uses a ultra-fine needle to inject a sclerosant solution directly into the targeted spider vein and its branches, causing the treated veins to collapse and disappear. 

How does sclerotherapy work?  

Injected medications irritate endothelial cells which line your blood vessels.  Following treatment, the vein shrivels up and is absorbed by the body.  These vessels are not necessary for normal circulation.

What causes spider veins and how can they be prevented?

In most case, spider veins are inherited and cannot be prevented.  Multiple pregnancies and female hormones also play a role in the development of spider veins.  Reducing your weight may help, although these vessels can occur in slender patients.  If possible, avoid long periods of standing.

How soon after treatment will the spider veins disappear?

In some patients, the process is quite slow, while in others, it is dramatically quick.  Some patients experience fading of small red spider veins.  Gradually, with multiple treatments, the veins will become smaller and lighter in color.  For others, the spider veins will disappear suddenly after 1 to 2 treatments.

Will sclerotherapy permanently erase my spider veins?

There is no cure for spider veins, there is only control.  New vessels of the same type can occur, often in the same areas, 1 to 2 years after treatment.  Touch-ups are the rule to maintaining improvement over time.  

What solutions do you use? 

The physician assistant injects a concentrated salt solution.  The solution is mixed with 1% xylocaine, an anesthetizing agent that allows for a more comfortable treatment.   

How many treatments will I need?    

This varies with the number of areas injected, as well as the response to each injection.  It usually takes approximately 2 to 5 treatments to obliterate about 80% of small spider veins.

What are the side effects?

Less than 1% of all patients will experience any significant complications.  Patients who bruise easily, take aspirin, or have certain types of very fragile veins should expect some bruising.  Swelling is very common, particularly in patients whose feet/ankles have been treated, in those who have a history of swelling or those who stand for long periods of time.  This swelling is never dangerous but when it occurs it is treated with elevation, loosening of dressing, refitting of too tight support hosiery and walking.  Patients with a history of migraine headaches will occasionally experience a similar episode (flashing lights, diminution of visual fields) following sclerotherapy.  We suggest that patients with a history of migraines or those with a history of fainting eat a solid meal an hour or so before treatment.

Can I have treatment during and after pregnacy?

If you are pregnant, nursing or planning a pregnancy, we will delay treatment until after pregnancy or you have stopped nursing.

Will my insurance provider reimburse me for this procedure?      

No.  However, if you experience blood vessels that cause pain or swelling of your legs, you may require further evaluation by a vascular specialist.