Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to treat varicose and spider veins by closing off problematic veins and redirecting blood flow to healthier vessels. Many individuals considering this treatment frequently inquire about the potential for blood clot formation. This article provides clear information regarding this common concern.
How Sclerotherapy Works
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a specialized solution, known as a sclerosant, directly into the targeted vein. This solution irritates the vein’s inner lining, causing the walls to swell, stick together, and eventually scar shut. Once sealed, the body naturally reabsorbs the treated vein, and blood is rerouted through other healthy veins in the area.
Understanding Blood Clots
It is important to distinguish between different types of blood clots. Superficial clots form in veins just beneath the skin’s surface. These clots are an expected, temporary part of the healing process after sclerotherapy, resulting from the intentional closure of the vein. They are localized to the treated area and not considered serious.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), in contrast, involves a blood clot forming in a deep vein, most commonly in the leg. DVT is a serious condition that carries significant health risks if left untreated, as a piece of the clot could break off and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.
Sclerotherapy and Clot Risk
The formation of superficial clots is an intentional and desired therapeutic effect of sclerotherapy. The sclerosing solution causes a controlled inflammatory reaction that seals off the vein, initiating its eventual reabsorption by the body.
The risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) directly caused by sclerotherapy is very low. Studies indicate a low incidence of DVT following sclerotherapy, ranging from 0% to 5.7% when detected by ultrasound, and 0.02% to 0.6% for symptomatic cases. General risk factors for DVT include prolonged immobility, certain medical conditions, hormonal therapies, obesity, and smoking.
Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Following sclerotherapy, superficial clots present with localized tenderness, redness, swelling, and a firm, cord-like lump along the treated vein. These symptoms are mild and resolve within one to two weeks. Conservative measures such as warm compresses, walking, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort.
Symptoms of DVT are serious and include significant swelling, pain, warmth, and redness in the entire leg, which may worsen with standing or walking. The pain is described as a throbbing sensation in the calf or thigh. If you experience sudden, severe leg swelling or pain, or develop symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or coughing up blood, seek immediate medical attention. These signs could indicate a pulmonary embolism.