Spider veins are small, blue to red appearing blood vessels which branch in the skin.The appearance can be tree branch shaped, spider web shaped, as simple but irregu- lar lines, or as small dots.They cause an unsightly appear- ance on the legs of millions of women and men, and can be

be seen around the nose and lips as well. They often  cause discomfort in the skin, such as itching and burn- ing. Spider veins can be simply inherited, or most often they are the result of an underlying vein valve abnormality. Modern treatments today are excellent to eliminate these veins from the skin in most patients.

The best method to treat and to  eliminate spider veins is determined by a physical examination and non- invasive ultrasound test.  The con- sultation visit with Dr. Jones  includes this determination on the initial appointment.

Modern sclerotherapy solutions represent a tremen- dous advance in the treatment of small skin veins as well as some of the larger veins. Laser therapy is occasionally used to treat certain spider veins, espec- ially those of the face. Modern solutions have derived primarily from European vein research, and have replaced the older saline solution methods.  The solutions used at Big Country Vein Relief Center are a foamed sclerosant and a glycerin/lidocaine mixture.

The foamed solution is injected into
 the tiny vessels with a very small 
needle.  Blood in the vein is displac- 
ed by the sclerosant on the surface 
of small air bubbles. The bubbles keep 
the sclerosant in contact with the vessel
lining for a sufficient time to cause the 
small vein to dry up and ultimately disap-

pear. The air bubbles are very small, the volume is small, and cannot cause harm. The glycerin/lidocaine solution is also injected through very small needles, and is usually chosen to eliminate very small and red spider veins.  This solution works more as a caustic agent to destroy the vessels.

Some spider veins are treated with laser energy, using the Dornier 940 nm laser system.  Laser light is delivered to the targeted vessel.  Laser energy in short pulses follows the light and is absorbed by the vessels.  The heat energy causes coagulation and welding of the small vein which will gradually disappear.

Nearly all patients can be treated to eliminate the unsightly veins.  The best method and best solution is chosen for each patient, depending upon the vein appearance and location and upon the relative skin color of the patient.

Fortunately there are very few problems with spider vein treatments.  Of course if there are large numbers of veins, and veins in large clusters, then some of the side effects are more pronounced.  Fortunately, nearly all of these side effects resolve spontaneously after one year.  Pigment color in the skin is the most common side effect, an occasional small ulcer will develop at the site of treatment, some swelling and redness often will occur

The treatment sessions are usually for about 30 to 45 minutes, and quite a few very small needle sticks are necessary.  The treatments are not considered excessively painful by our patients.  No anesthesia is necessary, and our patients may drive to and from the office on spider vein treatment day.  Compression hose are necessary after each treatment.

Spider vein treatments are not covered by insurance.  You will be given a treatment price at the time of your consultation.  The charges are usually between $300 to $1000 for treatment of both legs,  and several treatments are provided for the designated fee.