Microinjection Vein Therapy

Mavis Jaworski, M.D., P.C.
BOARD CERTIFIED PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN

A FEW WORDS ABOUT THE DISEASE

Varicosis is an extremely common disease that affects over half the population. The reason for its onset is still unknown, but certain factors, such as heredity, seem to play a decisive role. The condition can be aggravated by pregnancy, menopause, obesity, aging of the tissues, and the use of birth control pills and hormonal therapy.

Varicose veins are veins that have become permanently dilated. They impede blood flow, and hinder the return of blood to the heart from the lower parts of the body. When the valves in a vein become damaged, they are unable to function properly and reflux can occur, in other words, blood may flow backwards. This can lead to venous congestion and swelling.

With proper treatment varicose and spider veins can be controlled.

A FEW WORDS ABOUT THE TREATMENT

At one time there was not an alternative to surgery in the treatment of varicose and spider veins. A non-surgical procedure called SCLEROTHERAPY was started in Europe. SCLEROTHERAPY involves injecting a medication into a diseased dilated vein to induce a reaction in the wall of the vein. Sclerosis, or hardening, of the vein results, preventing blood from flowing through it. Blood is re-routed through the healthy superficial and deep venous systems, and eventually the varicose veins disappear. When properly performed, sclerotherapy is effective in safely treating both small varicose veins and smaller spider veins.

MOST COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q Can all kinds of varicose veins be treated?

A Primarily smaller veins and spider veins.

Q How many treatments will I need?

A Depending on the extent of the damage, anywhere from 2 to 10 treatments may be required.

Q What can I do to prevent varicose and spider veins after treatment?

A Wear comfortable shoes preferably with a 1- to 2- inch heel. Avoid wearing girdles and ordinary knee-high stockings or socks. Exercise regularly.

Q Will I leave your office with my legs bandaged?

A As a rule, no, but in special cases, yes. However, small cotton balls will be taped to your leg at the site of the injection and should be removed 72 hours after the treatment.

Q Should I wear support hose after the treatment?

A We suggest them for anyone suffering from venous congestion. They should definitely be worn whenever you have to stand for long periods of time.

Q How many injections will I be given during each visit?

A The number of injections will vary. It’s not the number of injections that determines the effectiveness of the treatment, but the type of sclerosing agent used, its dosage and the site of the injections.

Q Does the treatment involve any risk?

A All medical treatments entail a certain degree of risk. This will be discussed during your first visit. Fortunately, when sclerotherapy is administered by physicians with the appropriate training and experience serious complications rarely arise.

Q What about hospitalization?

A None is required. The treatments are simple; they are performed in the doctor’s office and usually take about 30 minutes.

Q Is the treatment painful?

A Pain may sometimes be induced by bruising, but is usually minimal.

Q Once treated can these veins come back?

A No. The treated veins disappear permanently. However, new ones could appear.

Q Will I have to rest in bed after each treatment?

A No. You will be able to return to your normal activities right after you leave the office.

Q What about exercise after the treatment?

A You may walk, swim or cycle as much as you please.

Q What sort of tests are required as part of the treatment?

A A thorough non-invasive examination of the deep and superficial venous systems may be necessary, as the veins of these systems will have to handle the blood flow diverted from the treated vein.

Q Will I have to return to the office after my treatment program is completed?

A We suggest you come in for a follow-up visit once or twice a year so that we can check for any new varicose or spider veins.