Foam sclerotherapy

Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose and spider veins. During the treatment, a foam sclerosant is injected into the affected vein under real-time ultrasound guidance. The ultrasound ensures accurate placement of the foam, maximising its effectiveness and reducing the risk of complications. The foam causes the vein to collapse, seal off, and eventually be absorbed by the body, leading to symptom relief and usually an improved cosmetic appearance. This technique allows for precise treatment of problematic veins, making it a popular choice among vascular specialists for treatment of smaller veins. We often combine it with Radiofrequency Ablation or VenaSeal to treat the larger vessels.

Foam sclerotherapy is a well-established and proven treatment, with success rates typically ranging from 70% to 90% for reducing or eliminating varicose veins. It is commonly necessary to come back for a second or even third session of foam if we aren’t able to get rid of all the veins at the first treatment. Sometimes this is because there are too many veins to be sensibly treated in one session, sometimes because a single treatment isn’t enough to completely seal off the veins the first time. Many patients experience significant improvement in both the appearance and symptoms affecting their legs. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure contributes to its favourable outcomes and quick recovery time. Overall, foam sclerotherapy remains a trusted option for many patients seeking to improve their varicose veins.

Usually, with a successful treatment, the veins will seal off and become firm and tender. Indeed, they will initially look and feel worse. With time, the body then reabsorbs the now closed veins, and they will begin to fade. Initial improvements in appearance can be seen as early as two to three weeks post-procedure, while optimal outcomes may take up to three months. Recovery is generally quick, with most patients able to resume normal activities immediately, although we do ask you to wear compression stockings for the first week. Overall, patience is key, as the body naturally eliminates the treated veins over time.

Common side effects of foam sclerotherapy include temporary bruising, minor swelling, and a brief burning sensation of the treatment site. Some patients may also experience discolouration or itchiness along the treated veins. These effects are usually fairly mild and resolve with time. Uncommonly, some degree of discolouration may persist. To minimise risks, we use precise injection techniques and appropriate foam concentrations. Rarely, more serious complications like skin ulceration or allergic reactions may occur, but these are very uncommon. Overall, with careful administration and proper aftercare, the procedure is very safe for most patients.

Foam sclerotherapy is generally very well tolerated, and most patients report little discomfort during the procedure. The treatment involves injecting a foam solution into the affected veins, and while you might feel a brief sting or slight burning sensation, this is usually mild and short-lived. If you are anxious about pain, we can use a topical anaesthetic cream. Additionally, the foam formulation itself is designed to distribute evenly within the vein, reducing localized irritation. Overall, the procedure is considered low-pain, and most patients are able to resume normal activities almost immediately after treatment.

While foam sclerotherapy is generally safe, all procedures on the leg veins carry a small risk of blood clots forming, especially if proper technique isn’t followed. To minimise this risk, we carefully control the volume and concentration of the foam and use ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate delivery. We also limit the use of foam to the smaller, more superficial veins and do not use it to treat the larger underlying veins. We encourage our patients to move and walk soon after treatment, which helps promote healthy blood flow and reduces the likelihood of clot formation. With these precautions in place, the occurrence of blood clots is uncommon.

After foam sclerotherapy, it’s important to follow specific advice to promote healing and avoid complications. We advise our patients to avoid very strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for a week or two to prevent undue stress on the treated veins. Additionally, prolonged periods of inactivity or sitting without movement should be avoided to ensure proper blood flow. Walking as much as possible is very important; this will promote good flow of blood through the major deep veins of the leg and will reduce the risk of blood clots. You should also steer clear of hot baths or saunas for a couple of weeks after the procedure since the heat may exacerbate inflammation. Following these recommendations helps maximise the effectiveness of the treatment and supports a smooth recovery.