Instructions for Patients after Sclerotherapy for Varicose Veins

Post-Foam Patient Instructions (Ultrasound Guided Endovenous Chemical Ablation)


After the procedure, a compression stocking was applied to your leg, it should remain in place for 72 hours. If the thigh high stocking becomes unbearable, you may remove it and put two below the knee stockings on the same leg instead. To shower with this stocking in place, cover it with a plastic bag. Should you have problems, discomfort or feel numbness in your foot or toes, please contact our office immediately.

Recovery from this procedure is usually trouble-free. The most common complaint is due to blood trapping. This involves an area of redness, tenderness/pain and swelling at the site of a treated vein. It is caused by the vessel closing and not allowing the trapped blood to escape. It will occur within 1-2 weeks of having the procedure. If you notice redness, tenderness or swelling, the best thing to do is to immediately start applying warm, wet soaks (washcloths work well) to the area. Leave them on for 10-15 minutes at a time and try to do it 3-4 times a day. You can also take Motrin (ibuprofen) 600mg three times daily with food as tolerated. If this does not help, please call and let us know as we have other ways to alleviate the discomfort here in the office.

Any discomfort after the procedure can generally be managed with over-the-counter analgesics like Tylenol or Motrin.

We are requesting all patients not on Coumadin to take one “baby” aspirin (81mg) daily for the next 7 days. This will hopefully help reduce post-procedure complications.

Normal activity can be resumed immediately, but strenuous exercise can cause the vein to reopen, so please avoid heavy lifting, squatting and vigorous activity such as gym workouts (including lunging, excessive jumping, kicking, or heavy weights) until at least 7 days following the procedure.

You should walk 30-60 minutes each day. Avoid prolonged sitting and whenever possible keep your legs elevated – avoid dangling!! Also, please avoid hot baths.

As with all procedures, air travel or prolonged auto travel for 7 days is forbidden.

As with any invasive procedures, problems can develop. If you develop an acute fever (more than 100 F or 38 C) or severe or worsening pain/swelling, please call our office.

Please don’t hesitate to call our office and ask for one of the nurses if you have any questions or problems. 662-2900