Sclerotherapy for Leg Veins

Asclera® (pronounced uh-SKLAIR-uh)?

Asclera® (polidocanol) Injection is a prescription medicine that is used in a procedure called sclerotherapy and administered by a healthcare provider to treat two types of veins in your legs.

• Uncomplicated spider veins (very small varicose veins ≤ 1 mm in diameter)

• Uncomplicated small varicose veins (1 to 3 mm in diameter) known as reticular veins

  How often do I need treatment to see results?

  The number and frequency of treatments depends on the size of the vessels and their location. Ask your provider about an individualized treatment approach that is right for you.

• How does Asclera® work?

  Asclera® is a sclerosing agent that is injected into the vein. It works by damaging the endothelium, the inside lining of blood vessels. This causes blood platelets and cellular debris to attach to the lining of the vessels. Eventually, cellular debris and platelets cause the blood vessel to clot. Over time, the clotted vein will be replaced with tissue.

  How satisfied are patients who use Asclera®?

  On average, 87% of clinical study patients were satisfied or very satisfied with their Asclera® treatment.

  How long is each Asclera® session?

  A typical session lasts 15 to 45 minutes. Generally, 1 to 3 injections may be necessary to treat a given spider or reticular vein. Repeat treatment sessions may be necessary. Any additional treatment sessions are usually separated by 1 to 2 weeks.

  What should I expect after being treated with Asclera®?

  Following treatment, you’ll need to wear compression stockings day and night for 2 to 3 days, then as needed for the following 2 to 3 weeks. Compression stockings are designed to apply pressure to your lower legs, helping to maintain blood flow, and reduce discomfort and swelling. Compression helps your legs heal and is necessary to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis.

  Treatment

  Compression Hose: Length of Wear

  Spider Veins

  2-3 days

  Reticular Veins

  5-7 days

  You should also walk 15 to 20 minutes immediately after treatment and daily for a few days.

  Are there activities I should avoid after receiving an Asclera® Injection?

  For 2 to 3 days following the treatment, avoid:

  • Heavy exercise

  • Sunbathing

  • Long plane flights

  • Hot baths, hot tubs, or saunas

  Be sure to ask your healthcare provider if you are uncertain about any activities you should avoid post-procedure.

  Are there any possible side effects to Asclera® treatments?

  Temporary side effects may occur at the site of the injection, including:

  • Bruising

  • Raised red areas

  • Small skin sores

  • Darkened skin in the form of lines or spots

  • Multiple tiny red blood vessels

  These side effects usually go away within a few days to several weeks. Some side effects may take months or years to resolve.

  Although rare, some individuals may experience serious side effects, which may require treatment. These can include:

  • An allergic reaction. Severe allergic reactions have been reported following polidocanol use, including anaphylactic reactions, some of them fatal. Severe reactions are most frequent with use of larger volumes (> 3 mL). The dose of polidocanol should therefore be minimized. A provider should be prepared to treat anaphylaxis appropriately

  • In rare cases, formation of small “burns” or ulcers form, usually due to leakage of Asclera® into the skin. These will heal in time but may leave a scar

  • Inadvertent perivascular injection of Asclera® can cause pain. If pain is severe, a local anesthetic (without adrenaline) may be injected