Treatment Detail

How do we perform sclerotherapy?

Using ultrasound or x-rays for guidance, the radiologist will insert a small needle into the malformation or guide a catheter to it through the blood vessels. Next, sclerosant medication will be injected into the malformation or a laser will be used to treat the malformed vessel. If injecting a liquid sclerosant, multiple sites might be chosen to ensure adequate exposure of the lesion to the medication. Drainage catheters may be placed for larger lesions. A typical sclerotherapy session takes approximately one hour.

Will my child be awake for the procedure?

Your child will be put to sleep, for which intravenous sedation or general anesthesia is administered.

What are the risks of sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is considered a low-risk procedure. However, potential complications include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Skin blistering, scarring or ulceration
• Nerve damage
• Injury to surrounding structures (skin, nerves or organs)
• Allergic reaction to X-ray dye or sclerosant
• Blood in the urine

Will my child have pain after the sclerotherapy?

Your child will not feel pain during the procedure but, often, the injection sites become swollen and tender for many days following the procedure. This is usually controlled by over-the-counter medications but the physician can prescribe stronger medication if necessary.