Foam sclerotherapy: what it is, who it’s for, and what to expect

Foam sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins and related

vein problems. It involves injecting a special medicine (a “sclerosant”) into the affected

vein in a foam form. The foam irritates the vein lining so the vein seals closed and is

gradually absorbed by the body. Blood is then naturally re-routed through healthier

veins.

A key point: the “right” treatment depends on what your veins are doing beneath the

surface. A consultant will usually recommend foam sclerotherapy (or an alternative

such as radiofrequency ablation or avulsions/phlebectomy) based on your duplex

ultrasound scan.

Why an ultrasound scan matters

Varicose veins are often caused by faulty valves in deeper “truncal” veins (such as the

great saphenous vein) or by reflux in smaller surface branches. A duplex ultrasound

scan shows:

• Which veins are affected

• Where the reflux (backflow) is coming from

• How large and tortuous the veins are

• Whether there are connected branches that also need treatment

This information helps your consultant tailor a plan that is most likely to relieve

symptoms and reduce the chance of recurrence.

Indications: when foam sclerotherapy may be

recommended

Foam sclerotherapy may be advised for a range of vein problems, including:

• Varicose veins (especially smaller to medium surface veins)

• Residual or recurrent varicose veins after previous treatment

• Visible branch veins connected to an underlying refluxing vein

• Reticular veins (blue/green “network” veins) in some cases

• Some venous skin changes related to chronic venous disease, where treating

refluxing veins can help reduce progression

Your consultant may also consider foam sclerotherapy when:

• You want a treatment that is typically performed without a general anaesthetic

• The vein anatomy makes other treatments less suitable

• You have multiple areas to treat and a staged approach is sensible

Benefits: why patients choose foam sclerotherapy

Foam sclerotherapy is popular because it is effective for the right vein pattern and is

usually straightforward to fit around everyday life.

Common benefits include:

• Minimally invasive: no surgical incisions

• Usually quick: appointments are often short

• Typically performed with local anaesthetic or none at all (depending on the area

treated)

• Rapid return to normal activities for many patients

• Targets specific veins identified on ultrasound

• Can be used for recurrent veins after previous procedure

If you would like any further information about these or any other treatments please contact us and we can explain the process, book you in for a free 5 minute telephone consultation and then get your veins sorted.