Treatment of spider veins using the sclerotherapy method

What are spider veins?

Spider veins, also known as telangiectasias, are visible, superficially located dilated capillaries in the skin, which not only represent a cosmetic defect but also indicate that the blood vessels are not functioning properly.

Therefore, instead of hiding them, it is better to start treating them!

Untreated spider veins can lead to the development of varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency.

Spider veins get their name from their shapes resembling a spider web. They can be blue, purple, violet, or red in color.

Causes of spider veins

It is believed that the main cause of spider veins is genetic predisposition.

However, there are also other factors contributing to the formation of spider veins. These include, among others:

• dilation of small venous vessels in the lower limbs due to high temperatures, e.g., during sunbathing, in a sauna, or hot baths
• use of hormonal contraception or hormone replacement therapy
• pregnancy, during which pressure on veins from the enlarged uterus and hormonal effects on the venous vessel walls may occur
• work involving prolonged standing
• overweight and obesity

Treatment of spider veins

There are various methods for treating venous spider veins. These include, among others, laser treatment, which involves the use of photothermolysis – absorption of light impulses by hemoglobin and their conversion into heat. During the procedure, the temperature of the ruptured vessel rises enough to allow its closure. Unfortunately, a common problem with this type of procedure is the risk of skin burns.

Spider veins are also removed using the sclerotherapy method, which involves injecting a special solution into the vessel lumen that causes morphological changes in its wall, leading to its closure. This agent, in the form of foam or liquid, is administered into the vessel using a very fine needle, usually under ultrasound guidance.

Compared to other methods of treating venous spider veins, this method demonstrates high effectiveness, safety, and minimal invasiveness. Procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis, allowing the patient to return home immediately after the treatment.