Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy
Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy (UGS) is performed to close the deeper incompetent branches that cause varicose veins. These branches can cause pain, swelling and contribute to reticular and spider veins as well. Ultrasound guided sclerotherapy and ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy are treatments that are used to treat deeper tributary veins and branches that are not seen on the skin surface.
This procedure utilizes an ultrasound machine to accurately locate the position of the diseased vein, and subsequently map out the tributary veins, or branches responsible for continued flow to the malfunctioning vessel. A sclerosant solution is then precisely injected into the diseased vein, which causes the vessel walls to collapse. The body will naturally close and absorb the vein over time.
Ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy can also be used on the small to medium branches of varicose veins. The foam is a thicker consistency compared to normal sclerotherapy medication. The foam is injected into the varicose vein branches and closes the vein. The medicine stays in the vein and attaches to the vein wall. The body then absorbs the vein over time.
Post UGS you may experience slight pain at the injection site as well as burning, itching, redness, bruising and swelling. These transient effects are known to dissipate within a few days to weeks after the procedure. Hard lumps or knots may be felt in the area of the injection. This is the remnants of the vein and the body will absorb this in time.
You are required to walk for 10 minutes before getting in your car to leave post UGS. A wrap will be applied over the treated area and worn for 72 hours. A UGS does not require fasting or stopping your medication.
This procedure takes 30 minutes.