Spider veins or telangiectasias of the legs are a common problem that
particularly affect women. Small purple, blue, or red veins can form
anywhere on the leg, from the top of the thigh to the ankle, and can
sometimes occur on the face as well. These veins appear as connected
lines resembling a sunburst or spider web pattern, or as short, unconnected
lines. (Fig. A) On many people, they are relatively inconspicuous,
because they are confined to a small area however, some people become
distressed when larger areas of skin are affected and the veins become
more noticeable.
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Before Sclerotherapy
Fig. A |
After Sclerotherapy
Fig. B |
Varicose veins are larger, sometimes raised veins which are often
blue in color. These are not the deep veins connected with the valve
system however, they can become quite painful, producing a burning
or throbbing sensation. Although these superficial varicose veins
and spider veins carry blood, neither are necessary to the circulatory
system.
Today, because of modern technology, both telangiectasias and superficial
varicose veins can be treated through a procedure called sclerotherapy.
Sclerotherapy is a technique which involves the use of a very fine
needle to inject a solution directly into the veins. The solution
causes the blood within the vein to disappear or become less obvious.
Before Treatment
Prior to treatment, a complete medical history is taken and a thorough
examination made in order to determine, among other things, how
long the problem has existed, the severity of the symptoms, whether
or not the condition is affected by physical activity, and if there
has been prior surgery or treatment of the veins. The physician
determines if the deep venous system is affected, in which case
surgery may be recommended before sclerotherapy is undertaken. Preoperative
instructions may include the elimination of certain drugs which
contain aspirin in order to minimize the possibility of excess bleeding.
The physician decides whether or not the area to be treated should
be shaved. The veins are usually marked while the patient is in
a standing position.
Sclerotherapy Treatment
Larger veins are usually treated first. After the skin is thoroughly
cleansed with alcohol, the physician uses a syringe with a tiny
needle to inject a small amount of sclerosing (hardening) solution
directly into a vein. (Fig B) The solution displaces the blood within
the vein, causing it to blanch or turn white. The solution then
causes the vessel to become irritated and swell shut, prohibiting
the blood from reentering the vein. When the needle is withdrawn,
pressure is immediately applied to the area. The skin may be kneaded
to help disperse the solution and reduce bruising. Each vein may
require several injections and most disappear in two weeks to two
months.
Following Treatment
Patients who have had sclerotherapy have reported little discomfort.
Some experience a slight to moderate burning sensation immediately
after the injection, but this disappears within a few seconds. An
ointment to soothe the skin and relieve the burning may be used,
and a pressure bandage may be applied to prevent post-injection
bleeding. Some physicians prefer elastic stockings; others use compression
bandages.
Patients are usually advised to resume normal activity immediately,
although vigorous activity is discouraged for twenty-four hours.
Walking is encouraged because it increases the blood flow through
other veins. Elevation of the legs is usually not recommended unless
large veins have been treated.
Most patients experience no adverse effects, however, some minor
side effects have been reported. These include slight blistering
which occurs when small amounts of the solution seep into the surrounding
areas. These spots usually resolve in time or respond to treatment
with bleaching agents.
Bruising around the treated area, which eventually disappears, can
result if the veins are unusually weak. Fair skinned people tend
to bruise more than do dark skinned people. Clots sometimes develop
at the site of the injection. Although not a major cause for concern,
it may be necessary to remove these clots within two weeks in order
to allow the healing process to progress normally.
A small percentage of patients develop a network of tiny, pink vessels
that turn white when pressure is applied. This condition, referred
to as "matte telangiectasia" usually disappears without treatment;
however, injection treatment may be necessary in some cases. Occasionally,
there are allergic reactions to the solution which are treated immediately
with antihistamines and other medications.
In some cases, spider veins recur and new spider veins present themselves.
When large veins are treated, wearing support hose is recommended
to prevent their recurrence.
What Causes Spider Veins and Varicose Veins?
No one has determined for certain why some people are affected with
spider veins and varicose veins and others are not; however, some
families seem predisposed to the condition. Trauma to the leg in
the form of blows or falls may contribute to the formation of these
veins, and long periods of standing or sitting may also be causative
factors. More women than men seem to develop this condition, perhaps
as a result of pregnancy or because of hormones. Scientists have
not discovered any clear-cut methods to prevent the onset of these
telangiectasias, although some authorities believe that the use
of support hose, weight control, and exercise may be beneficial.
Today, thousands of people who have felt self-conscious or embarrassed
by unsightly veins are delighted with the results they are getting
from sclerotherapy treatment. Most patients experience from 60%
to 80% improvement, although final results may not be apparent for
several months.
Other treatments using the argon and carbon dioxide lasers have
not proven particularly successful; however, recent development
of the tunable dye laser, a laser that is used to treat blood vessels,
may be very effective in the treatment of telangiectasias.
Will Insurance Pay for Sclerotherapy Treatment?
Most insurance companies do not pay for sclerotherapy treatment
if it is performed for cosmetic reasons. Some insurance companies
do pay benefits if there is pain or discomfort which impedes activity.
Each insurance carrier is different, and it is recommended that
individuals check with their own agents to determine if there is
coverage.
Copyright © 1997 Contemporary Health Communications,
Chesterfield, Missouri (Commercial use strictly prohibited)
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