General Information
What is ultrasound guided sclerofoam?
Ultrasound guided sclerofoam is an injection technique that helps eliminate small varicose veins and spider veins through the use of sclering agents and the exacting guidance of ultrasound technology.
How does ultrasound guided sclerofoam work?
In sclerotherapy, a sclerosing agent is injected into the problem vein to irritate the lining, causing the vein to scar and close off. Foam sclerotherapy does this by using a sclering agent that is of a thick, foamy consistency, which displaces the blood when injected into the vein, allowing the medication longer and less-diluted contact with the vein’s wall than is possible with liquid sclerotherapy. When ultrasound imaging is used as part of this process, greater accuracy can be reached since the specialist can track and evaluate the treatment as it is being administered.
How does ultrasound guided sclerofoam compare to other similar procedures?
Ultrasound guided sclerofoam has two major benefits when compared to other techniques:
• Foam blocks blood flow through the vein during the procedure, enabling the sclerosing agent physical contact with the vessel wall for a longer period of time, without being washed away or diluted
• By using ultrasound, the doctor can guarantee that the foam reaches the target areas, achieving a more exact and successful result.
Who should consider ultrasound guided sclerofoam?
If you have mild varicose veins or spider veins and are otherwise healthy, ultrasound guided sclerofoam may work for you. If you are pregnant or have a vascular condition you may not be eligible for this procedure. Consult your specialist for more information.
How is the procedure performed?
After sterilizing and anesthetizing the treatment area, your specialist will use ultrasound images to guide the application of the sclerofoam. The affect of the sclerofoam injections will be monitored and your specialist will apply additional injections as-needed. This process typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes, but can take longer depending on the size of the treatment area. Afterwards, a bandage and dressings may be applied.
How is the recovery?
Typically, most patients are comfortable enough to return to their daily activities right after their treatment. Because sclerofoam is less-invasive than surgical procedures, there are fewer side-effects associated with it, but some patients do experience minor bruising, redness, and itching around the injection sites. If the legs were treated, compression stockings may help hasten and support the healing process.
When can I expect results?
Results are evident right after the procedure, and will steadily improve as any side-effects subside and the vessels treated continue to close. Optimum results are usually achieved after just one treatment, but sometimes additional sessions are needed.
Are there any risks involved?
As with all injections, there is a minor risk of infection at the injection sites. The use of foam sclerosing agents has been linked in some patients to a very small risk of microembolisms, or small clots. If either of these concern you, discuss them with your specialist.
Is the ultrasound guided sclerofoam procedure approved for use in the U.S.?
Yes, the Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of the ultrasound guided sclerofoam technique in the treatment of spider and varicose veins in the US.
Will my insurance provider cover this procedure?
This treatment is used mainly for cosmetic purposes, and is typically not covered by major insurers. But if your procedure is deemed medically necessary or is part of a larger treatment of venous issues, it may be covered. Consult your insurance representative for more information about your particular coverage.
How much does ultrasound guided sclerofoam cost?
The ultrasound guided sclerofoam treatment typically ranges from $200 to $500 per treatment area, though depending on the size of the treatment areas and your provider’s fees it may cost more.
Disclaimer: This information is intended only as an introduction to this procedure. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor does it guarantee results of your elective surgery. Further details regarding surgical standards and procedures should be discussed with your physician.
By OnlineSurgery.comStaff
Updated: August 21, 2009
