Ultrasound Sclerotherapy in Melbourne
Also known as ultrasound guided sclerotherapy. An injection treatment for varicose veins that sit too deep to see or reach from the skin surface.
What is Ultrasound Sclerotherapy?
Ultrasound sclerotherapy is an advanced form of sclerotherapy where a vein doctor uses ultrasound imaging to locate and treat deeper varicose veins that cannot be seen on the surface. This guidance allows for precise injection of the sclerosing solution directly into the targeted vein. This treatment is also called ultrasound guided sclerotherapy, or UGS.
This technique is particularly effective for larger, deeper veins and areas where multiple smaller veins branch into complex networks. The ultrasound ensures every injection reaches its target with maximum accuracy.
Liquid and foam sclerotherapy
Ultrasound guided sclerotherapy comes in two main forms. Which one your doctor uses depends on the size of the vein and how far the solution needs to travel along it. Both are delivered through a fine needle under ultrasound guidance, and both are performed in our rooms with no hospital admission.
Ultrasound guided liquid sclerotherapy
The sclerosant is injected in liquid form directly into the vein. Well suited to smaller and medium calibre veins where the solution only needs to act over a short segment. The liquid mixes with the blood in the vein and closes the vein wall on contact.
Ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy
The same sclerosant is mixed with a small amount of gas to make a fine foam before it is injected. The foam displaces blood rather than mixing with it, so it stays in contact with the vein wall for longer and travels further along the vein. This makes it the usual choice for larger varicose veins.
How Ultrasound Sclerotherapy Works
The Procedure
Your doctor will use an ultrasound probe to visualise the veins beneath the skin in real-time. Once the target vein is located, a thin needle is guided to the exact location and the sclerosing solution is injected with precision guidance.
The ultrasound visualisation allows the doctor to monitor the solution spreading through the vein, ensuring complete treatment and maximizing effectiveness. The procedure typically takes 45-60 minutes depending on the extent of the veins being treated.
What to Expect
- Real-time ultrasound visualisation throughout the procedure
- Guided injections for maximum accuracy and safety
- Treatment of deeper veins not accessible to surface sclerotherapy
- Minimal discomfort with local anaesthesia when needed
Key Benefits
Precision Targeting
Real-time ultrasound guidance ensures the solution reaches exactly the right vein every time.
Treats Deeper Veins
Effective for veins beneath the skin surface that cannot be treated with surface sclerotherapy.
Higher Success Rate
Guided injection increases treatment success and reduces the need for repeat sessions.
Safer Procedure
Real-time visualisation minimises risk of complications and off-target injection.
Handles Complex Cases
Effective for branching veins and complex vein networks that benefit from visualisation.
Minimal Downtime
Same-day return to normal activities. No incisions or extended recovery needed.
Recovery & Aftercare
Post-Treatment Guidelines
Immediately After:
- Wear compression stockings for 1-2 weeks
- Avoid strenuous activity for 5-7 days
- Elevate legs when resting
- Avoid hot baths and saunas for one week
First Two Weeks:
- Light walking is beneficial and encouraged
- Bruising and swelling gradually resolve
- Avoid prolonged sitting or standing
- Schedule follow-up ultrasound if needed
What to Expect After Treatment
The injected vein closes first and fades second. Because these veins sit deeper, the visible change takes a little longer than surface treatment.
final result
most patients
work
The treated vein closes
The vein walls harden and seal. Some bruising, tenderness or firmness along the vein is normal. Compression stockings for one to two weeks support healing and comfort.
Major improvement
Swelling settles and the treated vein has substantially faded. A follow-up ultrasound confirms the vein has closed and checks whether a further session is needed.
Final result
The treated vein is fully absorbed and no longer visible. Closure of a treated vein is lasting, though new veins can develop over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ultrasound sclerotherapy painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. Local anaesthesia may be used for comfort. The ultrasound probe itself is non-invasive and painless.
How many treatments will I need?
Most patients achieve excellent results with 1-2 treatments depending on the extent of vein involvement. Your doctor will assess your specific case during consultation.
What is the difference between surface and ultrasound sclerotherapy?
Surface sclerotherapy treats visible veins near the skin. Ultrasound sclerotherapy uses imaging to treat deeper veins that can't be seen. Both are effective but for different vein types.
Can I go back to work after treatment?
Yes. Most patients return to work the next day. You should avoid strenuous activity for about a week, but normal office work is fine.
What are the risks?
Complications are rare with a qualified vein doctor. Minor bruising and swelling are common and temporary. Serious complications such as deep vein thrombosis are extremely rare.
How long do results last?
Results are permanent for the treated veins. New veins may develop in the future due to genetics and lifestyle factors, but treated veins do not return.
Ready to treat your varicose veins?
Ultrasound sclerotherapy offers precision treatment for deeper veins. Book your consultation today.
Other Treatment Options
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