Hard lump and hard vein after Sclerotherapy; is it normal? (Photos)

Question

Hi, I had Sclerotherapy done 3 weeks ago on spider veins, and I have worn my compression stockings every day. I developed a hard,discolored lump behind my knee.I also developed what feels like a bulging hard vein below my knee. I did not have a spider vein there before. It is not 100 percent hard the whole way through and there is no color. There is a break in the middle that is not hard.Is this normal and will it go away? Also will the lump behind the knee go away if it is not drained?

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question in regards to sclerotehrapy. This can be a common occurrence after sclerotherapy treatments where blood gets trapped in the vein while trying to close down. Lumps and discoloration will eventually go away over time, but can take up to six months to a year for complete recovery. Although draining hard lumps can speed up the healing process and become more comfortable for a patient. To be sure what is best for you, see two or more board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment. I hope this helps!

Andres Zavala, DO · Answer

Occasionally some veins will close with trapped blood after sclerotherapy.  This is normal and will eventually resolve with time.  Warm compresses and oral/topical anti-inflammatories can help speed resolution.  If it is very tender after a couple of weeks however you can have drained for much faster relief.

Michael Nguyen, MD · Answer

Always remember to follow up with your vein specialist after treatments for any concern and advise. Also, if you are concern or symptoms do not improve see your physician for an ultrasound follow up as well to check for deep vein and superficial vein patency. 
Best,

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Depending on the size, it may shrink and not be felt or shrink and still be palpable under the skin. In that case, it can be drained with a puncture wound to reduce potential for hyperpigmentation of the overlying skin.H Karamanoukian MD FACSCertified vein specialist from ABVLM and double board certified surgeon
 Twe

Hugo Pin, MD · Answer

This is completely normal after sclerotherapy. You can have it drained now if it is tender and bothers you , otherwise topical applications of Diclofenac will help to relieve any disconfort. 
It is made of trapped blood and will disappear progressively.
Kind regards

John Landi, MD · Answer

These are normal findings post sclerotherapy. Warm compresses and ibuprofen may help.  If no better by 3 weeks post treatment then drainage should be done.

Hard lump and hard vein after Sclerotherapy; is it normal? (Photos)

Answers (6)

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