Foam sclerotherapy is a technique that involves injecting “foamed sclerosant drugs” within a blood vessel using a syringe. The sclerosant drugs (Sodium Tetradecyl Sulfate) are mixed with air in a syringe. This increases the surface area of the drug. The foam sclerosant drug is more efficacious than the liquid one in causing sclerosis (thickening of the vessel wall and sealing off the blood flow), for it does not mix with the blood in the vessel and in fact, displaces it, thus avoiding dilution of the drug and causing maximal sclerosant action. Experts in foam sclerotherapy have created “toothpaste” like thick foam for their injections, which has revolutionized the non-surgical treatment of varicose veins and venous malformations.
How is sclerotherapy done? Sclerotherapy is performed in our office. Patients undergo sclerotherapy with an injection through a very fine needle. Most patients are able to tolerate the procedure without much discomfort. After the procedure, compression bandage and stockings are applied to the leg. You should wear compression stockings continuously for three days, and then during the day for one additional week.