Complications of sclerotherapy

Semin Cutan Med Surg. 2007 Mar;26(1):22-8. doi: 10.1016/j.sder.2006.12.009.

Abstract

Sclerotherapy is the systematic, targeted elimination of intracutaneous and subcutaneous varicose, reticular, telangiectasias by the injection of a locally irritating chemical substance, called a sclerosant. The endpoint of this process is functionally analogous to surgical removal of a vein. However, regardless of the best of intentions, complications can and will occur with enough sclerotherapy treatments. Complications resulting from sclerotherapy can be divided into the following categories for ease of explanation: (1) frequent but transient, (2) rare but self-limited, and (3) rare but major. This article will focus on select complications in sclerotherapy, review the most common complications observed, and discuss how to minimize these in daily practice.

MeSH terms

  • Dermatology
  • Humans
  • Hyperpigmentation / etiology
  • Necrosis / etiology
  • Pain / etiology
  • Sclerotherapy / adverse effects*
  • Telangiectasis / etiology
  • Telangiectasis / therapy*
  • Varicose Veins / therapy*