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What is sclerotherapy? How does this ancient technique work in modern times to treat vascular abnormalities?
Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to treat vascular abnormalities, including malformations of the blood vessels and lymphatic system. The technique has evolved many times since it was first reported in 1682 and is now widely used to treat spider veins, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and other such problems.
The basic principle of sclerotherapy is to inject drugs into blood vessels to shrink them and eventually be absorbed by the body. This non-invasive procedure usually takes about ten minutes and has a relatively short recovery time.
History of Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy has been around for over 150 years. Early attempts used strong acids given intravenously to induce thrombosis, and these techniques have been refined over time. In 1853, doctors reported successful treatment of varicose veins using either ferric chlorate or iodine. Developments in these methods continued, including sodium carbonate and sodium salicylate in the early 20th century.
In 1946, the development of Sodium Tetradecyl Sulfate (STS) further advanced the effectiveness of sclerotherapy, becoming one of the most commonly used doses in sclerotherapy today.
Modern sclerotherapy
Modern sclerotherapy is no longer limited to the infusion of liquid medications. The advent of foam sclerotherapy, combined with ultrasound technology, allows physicians to more accurately inject medication into the target vein and achieve greater efficacy. This method works by mixing the drug with a gas, such as carbon dioxide, to form a foam, making it possible to treat large veins.
The application of foam sclerotherapy is a non-surgical hope for many patients with varicose veins, which can effectively improve the appearance and symptoms of varicose veins.
Mechanisms of sclerotherapy
When the sclerosant is injected into the vein, it first causes the vein wall to contract, and then promotes local inflammation and scar formation, thereby achieving the "hardening" effect. After treatment, patients are usually asked to wear compression stockings to maintain the results and are advised to exercise moderately to promote blood flow.
During sclerotherapy, the doctor will adjust the concentration of the sclerosant and the injection technique according to the specific condition of the vein to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Effects and Research
Many studies have shown that ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy is effective in treating varicose veins and related symptoms. According to the literature analysis by the Cochrane co-authors, sclerotherapy is better than surgery in the short term for outcome, but surgery is better in the later stages.
Potential complicationsOne study found a 76% success rate at 24 months using a 3% STS, and sclerotherapy is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating traditional venous weakness.
Although complications of sclerotherapy are relatively uncommon, there are still risks, such as venous thrombosis, allergic reactions, and skin necrosis. The most common side effect is discoloration or uneven color of the skin at the injection site. Doctors must be delicate when performing the procedure to reduce risks.
ConclusionExperts recommend that patients should seek detailed consultation before undergoing sclerotherapy to fully understand the risks and precautions of the treatment.
Sclerotherapy, with its unique mechanism of action, offers an effective alternative for the treatment of vascular abnormalities. With the development of technology, it has become an indispensable part of modern medicine. Faced with the continuous advancement of medical technology, we can't help but wonder: How will vascular treatment change and evolve in the future?
