Spider veins are a common and frustrating problem for many patients, particularly women following childbearing years. These tiny branch-like veins are very superficial and may be quite bright appearing and typically involve the legs. They are treated with the injection of sclerosing agents in an attempt to obliterate the veins. Though successful, the main risk of the procedure is recurrence or the inability to totally eradicate the vein. Superficial pigmentary changes can result from the injections. It is important to diagnose any pre-existing deeper vein problems first and occasionally a doppler study of the legs will be required prior to sclerotherapy. Dr. Duffy does not use lasers on varicosities as he does not believe they are as effective long-term as sclerotherapy.

The procedure typically takes 10-15 minutes. Several injections will be made during this session and typically repeat sessions are common. Some form of compression garment following injection is important for several days. It is important to realize that the treated veins will look worse before they look better and it may take a couple of weeks for all the bruising to resolve following sclerotherapy. Sclerotherapy usually obliterates the veins in a fairly dramatic fashion though the patients are at risk for recurrent superficial spider veins.

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