Foam Sclerotherapy under Ultrasound Control

Introduction

We are now able to offer foam sclerotherapy under ultrasound control as a possible alternative to surgical treatment. It is still very important to have a proper assessment and this is done using a non invasive technique based on ultrasound. Varicose veins that fill from large incompetent perforating veins are still better treated surgically. Moderate sized varicose veins particularly if there are not connected to the deep systems can be treated very effectively using foam.

Foam treatments have been available for a long time. The recent advances involve the use of ultrasound to place the foam more accurately.

The treatments take about half an hour and depending on the number and size of the veins you may require two or three treatments. Once the bigger veins are under control the smaller veins can be treated using standard microsclerotherapy.

Some patients are ideal for this method of treatment. It saves on admission to hospital and avoids an anaesthetic. The final result may take longer to achieve and some tenderness over the veins lasting anything up to three or four months may also occur.

Combined Surgery and Foam Ultrasound Sclerotherapy

Patients with very prominent varicose veins or large leaks between the deep and superficial system are best treated using this combination. Surgery is designed to seal the leaks and removes the very large veins. Foam sclerotherapy can be used to remove the rest of the medium sized veins leaving microsclerotherapy to remove the very small veins.

Caution

The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH