Injection of sclerosant; single incompetent vein (other than telangiectasia)

CPT4 code

Name of the Procedure:

Injection of Sclerosant; Single Incompetent Vein (Other than Telangiectasia)

Common Name: Sclerotherapy

Summary

Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to treat varicose veins and spider veins. It involves injecting a solution called a sclerosant directly into the affected vein, causing it to collapse and eventually fade from view.

Purpose

Sclerotherapy is used to eliminate varicose veins that are not functioning properly.

Goals: To reduce or eliminate visible varicose veins, improve circulation, alleviate symptoms like pain and swelling, and improve the cosmetic appearance of the legs.

Indications

Symptoms warranting the procedure: Aching, pain, swelling, and cramping in the legs due to varicose veins.
Conditions: Varicose veins that are not adequately managed through conservative treatments like compression stockings or lifestyle changes.

Preparation

Pre-procedure instructions: Patients may be advised to avoid taking anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin, or blood thinners several days before the procedure.
Tests: A physical exam and possibly an ultrasound to evaluate the veins.

Procedure Description

Step 1: The patient lies down with the legs slightly elevated.
Step 2: The targeted vein is cleansed and marked.
Step 3: Using a fine needle, the sclerosant solution is injected into the vein.
Step 4: Compression is applied to the treated area to help the vein collapse.
- Tools: Needle, sclerosant solution, compression bandages.
- Anesthesia: Typically none or local anesthesia in some cases.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the size and number of veins treated.

Setting

Outpatient clinic or doctor's office.

Personnel

Vascular surgeon or interventional radiologist.
Nursing staff for assistance.

Risks and Complications

Common Risks: Bruising, redness, and mild pain at the injection site.
Rare Complications: Blood clot formation, air bubbles in the bloodstream, allergic reaction to the sclerosant solution.

Benefits

Reduced appearance of varicose veins.
Alleviation of related symptoms such as pain and swelling.
Improvement can be seen within a few weeks.

Recovery

Post-procedure care: Wearing compression stockings for a few weeks, walking to promote circulation.
Expected recovery time: Most patients can resume normal activities immediately but should avoid heavy exercise for a few days.
Follow-up: Scheduled appointments to monitor the treated veins.

Alternatives

Other treatments: Laser therapy, radiofrequency ablation, vein stripping surgery.
Pros and cons: Less invasive procedures like laser therapy may have fewer side effects, but sclerotherapy is often more effective for larger veins.

Patient Experience

During: Mild discomfort or stinging sensation from the injection.
After: Some soreness or bruising in the treated area, which should resolve within a few days.
Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by the physician.