subject: Is Polidocanol Effective and Safe For Treatment of Vein Problems? [print this page] Is Polidocanol Effective and Safe For Treatment of Vein Problems?
Polidocanol is a sclerosing agent that is used with sclerotherapy to treat spider veins. Sclerotherapy works by irritating the vessel wall, causing it to collapse, shrink and disappear entirely. It has been used in Europe for many years and has just this year been approved by the FDA to treat small varicose veins in the United States. A release by the FDA dated March 30, 2010 announced the approval.
Possible side effects associated with Polidocanol include hematoma, leakage, bruising, irritation, discoloration and pain at the injection site. Other sclerosing agents are also available at many vein clinics throughout the country and may cause similar side effects.
Sclerotherapy is performed by first sterilizing the treatment area and then injecting the sclerosing agent (Polidocanol or other agents) into the veins. An anesthetic is usually not required, as the injections used are so small that patients experience only minimal pain. Any discomfort experienced following the procedure may be treated with an over-the-counter medication, although patients should consult their vein specialist before taking any medicine to make sure that it is safe and does not interfere with any medical conditions or health problems.
Larger veins are typically injected first, followed by smaller veins. As a general rule, one injection is used for every inch of vein being treated, although this varies. Most procedures are completed in just 15 to 30 minutes and patients are usually able to resume normal activities following the therapy.
Most patients are able to achieve desired results after just one session with sclerotherapy, although some require multiple sessions to reach their goals. Patients should walk regularly following treatment, but are encouraged to avoid strenuous activity.
Polidocanol is considered safe, effective and pain free by many vein specialists. With different sclerosing agents available, clinics may use different sclerosing agents. Depending on the size of the problem veins, different agents may be used.
Polidocanol has been approved for the treatment of spider veins less than one millimeter in diameter and reticular veins one to three millimeters in diameter. In some cases, sclerotherapy may be used to treat small varicose veins, but this should be discussed with a vein specialist, as most cases of varicose veins require other treatment options such as various laser procedures.
While most patients think of spider veins as appearing only in the legs, they may also appear on other areas of the body. Many patients have successfully treated spider veins in the face and arms with sclerotherapy.
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