Fine threaded veins or spider veins can be effectively corrected by micro sclerotherapy which can be performed in the office setting.
Dilated venules treatment by injectable Sclerotherapy
Dilated vessels may appear wherever in the body but frequently appear in the legs. The aspect of this veins may resemble a spider web or the branch of a tree. Sometimes these vascular lesions, named also teleangiectasias, are associated to the dilation of superficial or deeper bigger veins. Through affected veins the blood flood is slower and less effective than in normal ones. Because of this the body develops altrenative ways that avoids the malfunctioning of the area affected by teleangiectasias.
Is a procedure performed since the 1930’s, used to treat abnormal veins. It involves an injection with a extremely fine needle of a solution which irritates the lining of the vein causing it to swell and stick together. Thus stopping the flow of blood, followed by the venules shrinking. The solution used by Dr. Cerqueiro for spider and small reticular vessels is Sclerovein (Polidoncanol). The operation takes 15 to 45 minutes corresponding to the extension of the area.
In many cases they seem to be hereditary otherwise the cause is not known. Varicose veins occur in both men and women, but more frequently in women. Hormonal factors may play a role in their development; i.e. puberty and pregnancy often seem to be contributory factors. Spider veins may also occur after trauma to a certain region of the body. They also appear to be associated with obesity and occupations involving prolonged standing.
There is no known method of prevention. Wearing specialised venous support stockings may prevent some dilated blood vessels from developing in some people. Maintaining a normal weight, regular exercise, avoiding constipation or wearing high-heeled shoes may also be helpful.
Some people may have an allergic reaction to the injection, but this is rare. Immediately after injections, the skin becomes red and looks worse than before the injection. This redness settles down over a few days but the final result is not always complete for several months.
Skin may become blistered at the site of an injection but this will heal. Also, skin can get a brown discolouration where the injection was made but this is often not as obvious as the veins that have been injected. The treatment may not work completely. Venules can reappear after the tratment.
Dr. Cerqueiro will determine with you in the clinic if your type of lesion is likely to respond satisfactorily to Sclerotherapy, and also answer any further questions you may have about the treatment.
