A minimally invasive procedure in which a sclerosing agent (chemical solution or foam) is injected into abnormal or dilated veins to cause them to shrink and eventually disappear.

Mechanism: The solution irritates the vein lining, causing it to collapse and be gradually reabsorbed by the body.

Common Uses / Indications

Varicose veins (enlarged, twisted veins usually in the legs)

Spider veins (small, superficial veins visible under the skin)

Esophageal varices (in certain patients with liver disease, injected endoscopically to prevent bleeding)

Hemorrhoids (in select cases, via endoscopic or perianal injection)

Advantages

Minimally invasive, outpatient procedure

Quick recovery

Can be used for veins not suitable for surgery