Ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment used to close small varicose veins. A special foam, made from a mixture of oxygen and carbon dioxide, is injected into the vein under ultrasound guidance. This foam pushes out the blood and irritates the vein wall, causing it to harden and eventually close. At The Whiteley Clinic, we use this advanced technique to reduce risks and improve results. After treatment, the leg is bandaged to keep the vein shut and prevent complications such as painful lumps or skin staining.
Foam sclerotherapy is suitable for patients who have already received treatment for underlying venous reflux and are looking to prevent recurrence or improve the cosmetic appearance of their legs. It is also a helpful option for patients who cannot undergo phlebectomy due to being on anticoagulant medication, as it can effectively treat remaining lumpy or bulging veins.
A quick overview of how ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy works, who it’s suitable for, and what to expect during and after treatment.
Anaesthetic Details
This is a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure that is usually performed with local anaesthesia or, in some cases, without any anaesthesia at all. As the foam is injected into the vein, most patients experience only mild discomfort, often described as a slight pressure or burning sensation.
Number of treatment Sessions
Usually, one session per leg is required. However, if only a few small veins need to be treated, both legs can sometimes be treated in a single session. Treatment is limited by the maximum safe dose of the medication used.
Pain Level
Patients may feel a mild sting or burning sensation during the injection of the foam sclerosant into the targeted veins. This discomfort is usually brief and well tolerated.
Price Range
Each treatment session is priced at £1,120.
Financial Aids
Low-interest finance options are available at The Whiteley Clinic to help spread the cost of Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy, making this effective and minimally invasive treatment more accessible to patients.
After treatment, you may notice some tender areas that feel slightly lumpy. This is due to the treated (sclerosed) veins and is often accompanied by some bruising. These effects are entirely normal and will gradually improve over the coming weeks and months.To support the healing process, you will need to wear compression stockings continuously for three weeks, without removing them even for washing. To help you shower without getting your legs wet, waterproof covers known as Limbo sleeves can be purchased.Once you have completed the period of wearing compression stockings, you may return to your usual daily activities. However, it is advisable to avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting during the early stages of recovery to ensure the best possible outcome.
There is a small risk, around 1% of an allergic reaction to the sclerosant used, which contains iodine. Patients with a history of migraines may find that the treatment can sometimes trigger a migraine episode. Additionally, some individuals might develop a temporary cough shortly after the procedure, which usually resolves quickly.Although rare, there is a very small risk of infection. Your medical team will provide advice on how to minimise this risk and care for the treated areas properly.
Around 80% of patients achieve a good or very good outcome following treatment.
Research indicates that ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy achieves a clinical recurrence rate of around 4% after five years, although ultrasound follow-up may show higher rates of vein reflux.
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Phone Call
0330 058 1850
Head Office
Stirling House, 1 Stirling Road, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7RF
