Spider vein removal (sclerotherapy) is a well known procedure that has been in use since the 1930s to treat varicose veins and spider veins. Patients with spider veins, particularly females, are understandably conscious of this unsightly condition which generally affects the lower legs the most although is not especially painful.

Luckily spider veins are easy to cure with an injection of a sodium chloride solution (sclerotherapy) directly into the varicose vein. After treatment, the vessel turns into scar tissue that eventually fades away.

Procedure information
Spider vein removal (sclerotherapy) is done in the doctor's surgery and takes about 30 to 45 minutes for the entire process. A sodium chloride sterile solution is mixed with local anesthetic, lidocaine, as well as heparin and injected into the veins with a very fine needle. Several veins may be injected with the solution in one sitting; a number which will depend on the amount of spider veins to be treated and the fitness and age of the patient. The injections are slightly uncomfortable particularly when larger spider veins are injected.

A spider vein removal (sclerotherapy) session will usually clear 50 to 80 percent of injected varicose veins. The small percentage of patients who do not respond to treatment can try out different solutions or perhaps laser therapy. Spider veins generally clear from sclerotherapy after about three to six weeks, with larger veins responding after about three months. Spider veins successfully treated will not reappear over time, although new veins may become apparent.

Recovery time
Patients can walk immediately after treatment for spider veins and are even able to drive home and resume regular activities, although you should refrain from jogging and swimming for at least a week. The doctor will instruct you on wearing support hosiery over the treated vessels for a time to aid in the removal process.

Avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen for at least 48 hours after having spider vein removal (sclerotherapy) treatment. It is also a good idea to try to keep the treated areas cool - keep legs covered up from the sun, no saunas and hot showers for 48 hours. Warm soapy water may be used to wash the area after treatment.