:: Microsclerotherapy

:: What is microsclerotherapy?

Microsclerotherapy involves the introduction of an extremely fine needle into the vein to be treated. The vein is then filled with sclerosing liquid, which causes microscopic damage to the cells lining the vein. The body responds to this damage causing the vessel to shrink and eventually to be obliterated.

:: What does it feel like?

The microsclerosing agent is used in tiny amounts and causes minimal discomfort, like a tiny pinprick. It is much less painful than other injections or blood tests.

:: What happens after microsclerotherapy?

For three days after treatment, the injection sites will be covered with dental roll held in place with micropore or other tape, all secured with a tubigrip or similar bandage.  When the wrappings are removed after three days, small bruises will be visible at the injection sites but will fade within a week or two.  For one or two weeks the veins will probably appear more prominent than before treatment but will then usually begin to fade and continue to do so for up to eight weeks or longer.  Remaining veins can be re-injected to reduce them further after four to six weeks.

:: What are the possible complications of microsclerotherapy?

Common side-effects include: itching, usually mild and restricted to the length of vessel treated for one to two days; the bruising mentioned above; brown discolouration of the skin, which is due to the deposition of an iron-containing pigment (haemosiderin) in the skin (this pigment may take a long time to fade away or, in very rare cases, can even be permanent); and new vessel formation.  Other complications of sclerotherapy are rare but can occur.  These include allergic reactions to the sclerosing solution, inflammation and skin injury, which may lead to the development of a small ulcer and permanent scar; thrombosis, and the associated risk of pulmonary embolism.  The area around the ankle is more likely to have complications than other areas.  Pregnant or breast feeding mums will be asked to postpone treatment; and patients taking certain medications (e.g. anticoagulants) may be advised against sclerotherapy.  All clients are given a comprehensive medical evaluation and post treatment advice to minimise the risk of complications.