Sclerotherapy Adverse Effects
Sclerotherapy has a number of potential side effects, including;
Experiencing bleeding
This is the most frequent complication, and it can occur either during or after the procedure. It can be dangerous if a significant amount of blood is lost.
It is possible for bleeding to occur immediately after sclerotherapy or up to several weeks later. It can range from minimal bleeding to significant bleeding. Bleeding may be caused by the injection of a sclerosing agent into the vein or by vein wall injury.
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience excessive haemorrhaging following sclerotherapy. He or she may need to conduct an evaluation and recommend additional treatment.
Nerve injury
Sclerotherapy is associated with a rare but potentially serious risk of nerve injury. It can occur if the chemical used to treat the capillaries damages the nerves in the area. Nerve injury is characterised by pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness. These symptoms may linger long after treatment has been completed.
According to studies, the incidence of nerve injury following sclerotherapy ranges from 0.1% to 2.8%. The most prevalent type is paresthesia, a sensation of pins and needles. Other nerve damage symptoms include paralysis, tingling, and burning. It is possible for nerve injury to occur immediately following the procedure or up to a few weeks later.
Nerve damage after sclerotherapy is not completely understood, but it may be caused by injection of the sclerosing agent into the tissue surrounding the nerves or compression of the nerves by clotting that occurs after the injection. Using a large volume of sclerosing agent, a high concentration of sclerosing agent, and an improperly positioned catheter are all risk factors for nerve damage.
Air pockets
Air pockets are a frequent side effect of sclerotherapy. During or after a sclerotherapy treatment, these can form in the circulation. Typically, they result from the injection of a sclerosing agent into a vein, which causes the vein to collapse. The gases may spread throughout the body and obstruct blood vessels. This can result in discomfort, shortness of breath, and other severe complications, such as a stroke or heart attack.
The majority of cases of air bubbles following sclerotherapy are modest and resolve without treatment. A large air bubble can be life-threatening if it forms. Consult your doctor if you experience any symptoms related to air pockets.
Why is it done?
In addition to alleviating the symptoms associated with spider veins and varicose veins, sclerotherapy enhances the physical appearance of affected areas. Sclerotherapy is less commonly utilised to treat haemorrhoids.
Your preferences and specific symptoms will determine the appropriate treatment for you. Sclerotherapy may be a viable option due to its minimally invasive nature. It may alleviate your symptoms and the appearance of your vessels to the point where you do not require further surgical treatment.
According to a 2016 study, eighty percent of patients who underwent sclerotherapy did not require additional surgery to treat their symptoms. Consult your physician for more details on sclerotherapy.
What are the indications that I qualify for sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is an option for the majority of people with varicose or spider veins, but it is utilised more frequently in women aged 30 to 60.
These conditions are typically less noticeable on males with more hair because they become more noticeable with age.
It is not advised for individuals who are bedridden, breastfeeding, expectant, or who have recently given birth.
On the basis of an examination, a vascular specialist will determine whether you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
How sclerotherapy therapy works
Sclerotherapy may take between 30 and 45 minutes to treat vein problems. If your specialist wishes to treat your legs, it may be necessary to elevate them while receiving treatment.
Depending on how deep the damaged vein is beneath your epidermis, an ultrasound may be used as part of the procedure.
Before beginning the procedure, the epidermis surrounding the targeted veins will be cleaned by a physician. Your physician will inject you with a sclerosing agent using a microscopic needle, such as:
Sulfatehypertonic solutions of salt
Sodium polidocanol tetradecyl
When the liquid or foam solution seals the vein walls, blood is redirected to veins that are unaffected. The damaged vein is eventually absorbed by the body, resulting in a condition that is less visible.
Depending on the extent of the vein or veins to be treated, up to four procedures may be necessary.
A step-by-step guide to sclerotherapy preparation
A medical professional will consult with you first. Depending on your requirements, they will recommend whether or not you should undergo this procedure. Next, the following may be suggested:
Avoid medications like ibuprofen (Advil) and aspirin (Bufferin) to reduce your risk of haemorrhaging. If you are taking these medications, you may experience difficulties with the coagulation of your blood. Before sclerotherapy, try compression stockings to decrease irritation. Before undergoing a procedure, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider of any additional medical conditions you may have, so that they can provide you with appropriate guidance. After the procedure, you will likely be required to wear them for several days.
What to anticipate following sclerotherapy
The recovery period following sclerotherapy is minimal to nonexistent. Within a few days, you should be able to resume your regular activities. There are additional tasks you should do, including:
Wear compression hosiery or stockings when you are not showering or sleeping. Any pain or distress can be alleviated with acetaminophen-based medications, such as Tylenol. Aspirin and Ibuprofen should be avoided. During the first two days following treatment, sun exposure, hot baths, saunas, swimming pools, and the shore should be avoided. Blood clotting can be avoided by maintaining an active lifestyle. After surgery, it is still advised that you refrain from aerobic activities such as sprinting and weightlifting for a few days. Some medical experts advise against travelling for several days following a flight.
The outlook
Sclerotherapy is typically most effective on smaller veins, such as varicose veins and spider veins. A few weeks may pass before you observe the effects of treatment. Large varicose veins may require up to four months to heal visually.
Multiple sessions may be required to thoroughly eliminate varicose or spider veins. Regarding sclerotherapy, it is essential to have reasonable expectations. Varicose or spider veins may persist after sclerotherapy; however, this is not guaranteed.
