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Trophic ulcer ➤ treatment of varicose ulcers on the legs in Kyiv | Oxford Medical

Sclerotherapy

A vascular network on the legs is often perceived only as an aesthetic problem, but sometimes it can be a manifestation of impaired venous blood circulation. If the vessels become more noticeable, heaviness, fatigue or discomfort in the legs appears, it is worth contacting a phlebologist and checking the condition of the veins. In some cases, to eliminate the vascular network, the doctor may recommend sclerotherapy.

At the «Oxford Medical» clinic, you can receive a consultation with a phlebologist, undergo vein diagnostics and modern treatment of vascular changes. The method of therapy is selected individually after an examination and assessment. Make an appointment for a consultation at a time convenient for you through the online appointment form or by the contact center phone number.

What Is Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy — is a minimally invasive procedure during which a special preparation — a sclerosant — is injected into an altered vein or a small superficial vessel. It acts on the inner wall of the vessel, promotes closure of its lumen, after which blood is redistributed through healthy veins, and the treated vessel gradually becomes less noticeable.

According to the US National Library of Medicine, phleboscleroobliteration is used to treat vascular «stars», reticular veins, individual varicose altered veins and telangiectasias. At the same time, it is important to understand that vascular sclerosis is not a universal method for all venous disorders.

Indications for Sclerotherapy

The method can be used for aesthetic correction of small superficial vessels, as well
as for the treatment of individual manifestations of venous insufficiency.

Indications for the procedure may include:

telangiectasias — vascular «stars» and a small vascular network on the legs;

reticular veins — superficial bluish vessels;

small varicose altered superficial veins;

residual small vessels after treatment of varicose disease.

List of diseases

Patients often consult a phlebologist when they are interested in the removal of a vascular network on the legs. However, even with minor external changes, it is important first to assess venous blood circulation in order not to miss hidden disorders in larger veins.

The doctors of «Oxford Medical» recommend not choosing a treatment method independently. If there is swelling, pain, heaviness in the legs or suspicion of varicose veins, first it is necessary to undergo a consultation and diagnostics, and only then determine whether sclerotherapy will be the optimal option.

Sclerotherapy: Contraindications to Performance

Sclerotherapy belongs to minimally invasive procedures, but has certain contraindications. They are necessarily taken into account before treatment in order to reduce the risk of complications and unwanted reactions and to select a safe tactic for the patient.

The procedure may not be performed or may be temporarily postponed in the following conditions:

  • acute thrombosis or a high risk of thrombotic complications;
  • active inflammation of the skin or infection in the area of the planned injections;
  • allergy to the sclerosant;
  • severe disorders of arterial blood circulation of the lower limbs;
  • severe decompensated chronic diseases;
  • inability to wear compression knitwear after the procedure;
  • pregnancy and the period of breastfeeding.

If there are doubts regarding the safety of the procedure, the doctor may recommend additional examinations or another method of treatment. In some cases, sclerotherapy is performed after stabilization of the condition, treatment of inflammation or clarification of the diagnosis.

Modern Methods of Performing Sclerotherapy

In modern phlebology, several types of sclerotherapy are used. They differ in the technique of administering the preparation, the type of vessels for which they are used, and the need for ultrasound control. The optimal method is determined by the doctor after examination and diagnostics of the veins.

Method

When it may be used

Features

Microsclerotherapy

For small vascular «stars» and a superficial vascular network.

The preparation is injected with a very thin needle into small superficial vessels. The method is more often used for aesthetic correction.

Foam sclerotherapy

For reticular veins and some varicose altered tributaries.

The sclerosant is injected in the form of foam, which contacts the vessel wall better. The method is often used for veins of a larger diameter.

Echo sclerotherapy

For more deeply located or poorly visible veins.

The procedure is performed under ultrasound control, which allows precise control of the administration of the preparation and the condition of the vessel.

According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the choice of treatment method depends on the type of affected veins, the presence of venous reflux and the results of ultrasound diagnostics. For the treatment of small superficial vessels, sclerotherapy of vascular stars is most often used — a method that allows reducing or eliminating a noticeable vascular network without surgical incisions. If, however, the patient has larger varicose altered veins or pronounced disorders of venous blood circulation, the doctor may recommend other treatment methods, in particular EVLT or combined minimally invasive procedures.

The doctors of «Oxford Medical» recommend not focusing only on the appearance of the vessels. Even with a minor vascular network, the patient may need an additional vein examination, since the optimal treatment tactic is determined after consultation and assessment of the condition of venous blood circulation.

Preparation for Performing Sclerotherapy

Preparation for the procedure begins with a doctor's consultation. During the appointment, the specialist assesses the condition of the veins, clarifies complaints, the duration of symptoms, and the presence of concomitant diseases. Before the procedure, the doctor may recommend an ultrasound of the veins of the lower limbs. The examination helps assess the condition of the superficial and deep veins, detect disorders of venous blood circulation and determine whether sclerotherapy will be the optimal treatment method in a specific case.

Before the procedure, it is usually recommended to:

  • not apply creams, oils or lotions to the skin of the legs on the day of performing sclerotherapy;
  • inform the doctor about all medications that you are taking;
  • take compression knitwear with you if it was previously recommended by the doctor;
  • choose comfortable clothing and footwear;
  • not plan intense physical activity immediately after the procedure.

The doctors of «Oxford Medical» recommend informing the specialist about allergies, previous thromboses, chronic diseases and the use of anticoagulants. This is important for the safe performance of the procedure and the correct choice of treatment tactics.

How Sclerotherapy Is Performed

The sclerotherapy procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and usually does not require special anesthesia. During the session, the doctor uses a thin needle to inject a special preparation — a sclerosant — into the altered vessel. After injection, the preparation acts on the vessel walls, because of which it gradually stops participating in blood circulation and becomes less noticeable.

The number of injections depends on the number and size of the vessels that require treatment. During the injection of the preparation, the patient may feel mild tingling or burning, which usually passes quickly.

In some cases, treatment of veins with sclerotherapy is performed in several sessions. This depends on the extent of vascular changes and the volume of treatment.

Sclerotherapy: Pros and Cons of the Procedure

Sclerotherapy of the legs has a number of advantages, but, like any method, it is not suitable in all clinical cases. That is why before the procedure it is important to undergo an examination, assess the condition of the veins and discuss the expected result of treatment with the doctor.

Pros

Cons and limitations

Does not require large incisions

Several sessions may be needed

Performed on an outpatient basis

The result appears gradually

Can be used for a vascular network and reticular veins

Not always effective on large main veins

Has a short recovery period

Temporary bruises, indurations or pigmentation are possible;

Helps reduce the visibility of vascular changes

Requires following recommendations after the procedure

Sclerotherapy: Recommendations After the Procedure

After sclerotherapy, it is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations, since this affects the comfort of recovery and the result of treatment. Most restrictions are temporary, but they must be followed carefully.

After the session, it is usually recommended to:

  • walk for the time determined by the doctor in order to support normal blood circulation;
  • wear compression knitwear as prescribed;
  • avoid hot baths, saunas, baths and intense overheating of the legs;
  • temporarily limit strength loads and intense workouts;
  • not massage the areas of drug administration without a doctor’s recommendation;
  • come for follow-up examinations at the appointed time.

Small bruises, indurations or darkening of the skin along the vessel may appear at the sites of drug administration. Usually these changes gradually pass. If sharp pain, pronounced swelling, redness or other unusual symptoms occur, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Sclerotherapy: Rehabilitation After Treatment

Recovery after sclerotherapy usually does not require prolonged rehabilitation. In most cases, the patient can return to everyday activities already on the same day, following the doctor’s recommendations.

In the first days after treatment, it is important to move enough, wear compression knitwear and avoid overheating. Moderate walking is usually useful, since it helps maintain normal venous blood circulation.

The result of treatment usually appears gradually. A small vascular network may become lighter faster, while larger vessels require more time. The final effect depends on the diameter of the veins and the individual characteristics of the body.

Possible Complications After Sclerotherapy

After removal of vascular stars on the legs, changes may appear in the area of the treated vessels that are considered a normal tissue reaction to treatment. In most cases, they gradually pass and do not require additional treatment.

Such reactions may include:

  • small bruises at the injection sites;
  • moderate sensitivity or discomfort along the vessel;
  • temporary induration in the treatment area;
  • slight darkening of the skin;
  • mild itching at the site of drug administration.

Serious complications after sclerotherapy occur very rarely, but in individual cases inflammation of the vein, an allergic reaction to the preparation or thrombotic complications are possible. If pronounced pain, significant swelling, severe redness of the skin, an increase in temperature or deterioration of well-being appears, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

How Much Does Sclerotherapy Cost in Kyiv at the Private Clinic «Oxford Medical»

The cost of sclerotherapy in Kyiv at the «Oxford Medical» clinic depends on the extent of vascular changes, the number of treatment areas, the chosen method and the need for ultrasound control. Therefore, the price for sclerotherapy is determined individually after consultation and assessment of the condition of the veins. You can view prices for medical services here.

The doctor will guide you in more detail regarding the options and cost of treatment during the appointment. To make an appointment for a consultation at a time convenient for you, leave a request through the online appointment form or contact the contact center by phone.

The information is for informational purposes and does not replace a doctor’s consultation.

Sources:

Frequently asked questions

Is sclerotherapy harmful?

When performed correctly, sclerotherapy is not harmful. It is considered a minimally invasive treatment method and is well tolerated in most cases. After treatment, bruises, indurations or darkening of the skin may temporarily appear, which gradually pass. The risk of serious complications is low.

How many sclerotherapy sessions are needed?

The number of sessions depends on the number of vascular changes, the diameter of the veins and the area of the lesion. With a small vascular network, sometimes one procedure is enough, but with more pronounced changes, several sessions may be needed. The intervals between procedures are determined by the doctor after assessing the treatment result and the condition of the venous system.

After how long can the first results after sclerotherapy be seen?

The first results after sclerotherapy usually become noticeable after 2–6 weeks. Small vascular «stars» may become lighter faster, while larger veins disappear gradually. The final result is assessed after several months, since the vessel after administration of the preparation does not close immediately, but gradually remodels and becomes less noticeable.

How long should stockings be worn after sclerotherapy?

The duration of wearing compression stockings after sclerotherapy depends on the volume of treatment and the type of vessels. In some cases, compression knitwear is recommended to be worn for several days, and when treating larger veins — longer. The exact regimen is determined by the doctor. Following the recommendations helps improve the treatment result.

Which is better: sclerotherapy or laser coagulation?

Sclerotherapy and laser coagulation are used for different types of venous changes. Sclerotherapy is more often used for a vascular network, telangiectasias and small veins, while laser coagulation is usually suitable for larger varicose altered vessels. Which method will be more effective is determined by the doctor after examination and ultrasound diagnostics of the veins.

( Rating: 4.97 , Votes: 64 )
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Advantages of the phlebology department at "Oxford Medical" in Kyiv

Modern diagnostics without queues. Latest ultrasound machines and the ability to get tested on the day of the visit.

Experienced phlebologists and vascular surgeons. Skilled doctors who follow modern treatment protocols.

Minimally invasive treatment without incisions. Laser, glue obliteration, and radiofrequency methods without hospitalization.

Surgical facility within the clinic. Possibility to perform miniphlebectomy and classic surgery.

Reviews
Ірина 26.05.2026
Привозила чоловіка до Дмитра Васильовича після невдалого лікування в іншому місці. Лікар змінив лікування і стан чоловіка помітно покращився. Дякую.
Star Star Star Star Star
Руслан 25.05.2026
Звернувся до Андрія Вадимовича через проблему, яка вже почала серйозно заважати нормально жити. Лікар швидко розібрався в ситуації, усе пояснив і підібрав лікування. Уже через кілька днів стало значно легше.
Star Star Star Star Star
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