Chemical procedure (sclerotherapy)

The goal of the treatment is to eliminate the pathologically enlarged and refluxive vein. This can be attained by chemical sclerotherapy, wherein a sclerosing agent (polidocanol or glycerin) is injected with ultrasound guidance into the varicose veins. This substance does not linger in the vein and is eliminated very quickly, but contact with the vein wall initiates a local inflammation in the vein and thus scars the treated vein segment.

The sclerosing procedures have proven highly efficacious for the treatment of short, usually twisted sections. This technique has been used for many years, the results are usually good and the risks minimal. Unfortunately, not all veins can be permanently treated using sclerotherapy.