eMedicine Specialties > Plastic Surgery > Ancillary Procedures
Sclerotherapy: Follow-up
Updated: Jun 26, 2009
Future and Controversies
The amount of compression therapy necessary after sclerotherapy of telangiectasias and reticular veins is a controversial issue. Use of at least a minimally graduated compression hose is recommended for the first few days and possibly for 7-10 days after sclerotherapy sessions. This compression theoretically helps to improve the results and minimizes adverse effects, such as edema and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. Class I (20-30 mm Hg) or class II (30-40 mm Hg) compression is best. For patients who cannot tolerate this level, a class I fashion hose support can be used. After treatment, the patient can continue low-impact exercises, such as walking or riding bicycles, but direct isometric exercise to the lower legs should be avoided for at least 1 week.
Advancements and refinements in foam sclerotherapy are expected to revolutionize the management of venous disorders.
The authors and editors of eMedicine gratefully acknowledge the contributions of previous authors Laurence Z Rosenberg, MD; Jorge I de la Torre, MD, FACS; Gary D Monheit, MD; and John D Kayal, MD; to the development and writing of this article.
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References
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Further Reading
Keywords
telangiectasia, reticular veins, sclerosants, unwanted vasculation, thromboembolic disease, telangiectatic vessels, varicose veins, varicosities, varicosity, incompetent perforators, aspiration technique, puncture fed technique, puncture-fed technique, air bolus technique, empty vein technique, spider telangiectasia, spider veins
Follow-up: Sclerotherapy