Sclerotherapy can be used to close tortuous veins and to minimize the appearance of spider veins.  During the procedure, an FDA-approved sclerosant called Sodium Tetradecyl Sulfate (STS) is injected into the vein.  This causes an irritation to the inner lining of the vein resulting in closure of the vein.  After the procedure, a compression dressing will be applied to the site and you will wear compression stockings for 48 hours straight.  After 48 hours, you need to wear the stocking during the day for the next 7-10 days, unless specified otherwise by Dr. Visconti.  The number of treatments needed differs from patient to patient, depending on the extent of the problem.