What Is Sclerotherapy (Foam Treatment)?
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive treatment method that involves injecting special medications into veins or vein-related structures to shrink, close off, and eventually eliminate them. The solution used during the procedure can be in liquid or foam form. Foam is often preferred because it tends to produce more effective and controlled results.
Sclerotherapy is used for various indications related to vein health. One of its most well-known applications is the treatment of leg varicose veins. However, it is also an important and effective option for the treatment of hemorrhoids.
The Role of Sclerotherapy in Hemorrhoid Treatment
Hemorrhoids are a common health issue caused by the enlargement and prolapse of venous cushions located in the anal and rectal regions. Sclerotherapy is successfully used especially in grade 1 and 2 internal hemorrhoid cases.
Hemorrhoidal disease is one of the widespread health issues of modern life. Sedentary work, lack of exercise, and poor dietary habits increase its prevalence. Today, many different treatment methods are available for hemorrhoids. Among them, sclerotherapy (foam therapy) stands out as a fast and effective non-surgical alternative.
Sclerotherapy helps relieve symptoms by causing the hemorrhoidal veins to shrink. It is particularly preferred in the early stages of hemorrhoidal disease.
During sclerotherapy, a sclerosing agent is directly injected into the hemorrhoidal bundles, causing the veins to contract and shrink. This reduces blood flow, shrinks the hemorrhoids, and controls symptoms.
Advantages of Sclerotherapy for Hemorrhoids
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Painless or minimal pain | No anesthesia is required; the procedure is generally painless. |
| Fast application | Usually completed within 5–10 minutes. |
| Quick return to daily life | Patients can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure. |
| Alternative to surgery | Offers a non-surgical solution especially for early-stage cases. |
| Low risk of complications | Very low risk of infection and bleeding. |
How Is Sclerotherapy Performed?
Sclerotherapy is typically performed in an outpatient setting, often without the need for sedation or anesthesia.
Procedure Steps:
- Preparation: The patient is examined, and suitability for sclerotherapy is assessed.
- Positioning: The patient is usually placed in a lateral decubitus (side-lying) position.
- Injection: A fine needle is used to inject the sclerosing agent into the hemorrhoidal vein.
- Monitoring: The patient is observed briefly after the procedure and then discharged.
How Long Does Sclerotherapy Take?
The procedure is very quick. Approximate times are as follows:
| Procedure Type | Duration |
| Hemorrhoid Sclerotherapy | 5–15 minutes |
| Varicose Vein Sclerotherapy (Legs) | 15–30 minutes |
Post-procedure rest is typically unnecessary, and patients can resume normal activities the same day.
Who Is a Candidate for Sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is commonly used in the following patient groups:
- Patients with grade 1 or 2 internal hemorrhoids
- Those who do not wish to undergo surgery
- Individuals experiencing bleeding, itching, or discomfort but not advanced hemorrhoids
- Patients who cannot or do not want to receive anesthesia
Post-Sclerotherapy Care
Patients are usually discharged immediately after the procedure. However, it’s important to observe the following precautions:
- Avoid strenuous physical activity for the first 24 hours
- Prevent constipation by consuming high-fiber foods
- Regulate bowel habits
- Stay well-hydrated
- Mild pain or discomfort may occur but usually subsides within a few days
Risks and Possible Complications of Sclerotherapy
As with any medical intervention, there are some rare risks associated with sclerotherapy:
| Possible Complication | Description |
| Mild pain or discomfort | Usually temporary and short-lived |
| Temporary bleeding | Rarely occurs |
| Infection | Very low likelihood |
| Local allergic reaction | Rare allergic reactions to the sclerosing agent |
Most of these complications can be easily managed with proper follow-up and supportive care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does sclerotherapy completely eliminate hemorrhoids?
Sclerotherapy is highly successful for early-stage hemorrhoids. However, additional treatments may be needed for advanced stages. Medical evaluation is essential.
Is the sclerotherapy procedure painful?
The procedure is generally painless. A fine needle is used for injection, and most patients report only mild pressure.
How soon can I return to work or social activities after sclerotherapy?
Most patients can return to normal life the same day. For strenuous physical activities, a 1–2 day rest period is recommended.
Disclaimer: All content on this site is for informational purposes only and is based on scientific sources valid as of the date of preparation. For any symptoms, diagnoses, or treatments requiring medical attention, please consult your physician or a certified healthcare provider.
