Sclerotherapy for varicose and telangiectatic veins.

Varicose veins of the lower extremities are present in approximately 20 percent of adults. They are often symptomatic and may contribute to the development of cutaneous changes of venous insufficiency. Sclerotherapy is a nonsurgical procedure to eradicate varicosities. It can be performed in the office and is more cost-effective than traditional surgical vein stripping, which requires hospitalization and a recuperation period. Sclerotherapy is relatively safe and effective and may be used to treat both varicose veins and telangiectatic "spider" veins of the lower extremities.