What factor has been shown to enhance the safety of foam sclerotherapy?

The use of ultrasound guidance in foam sclerotherapy significantly enhances safety by allowing for real-time visualization of the veins being treated. This technique helps practitioners identify the exact location of the varicosities, ensuring that the foam is delivered accurately and minimizes the risk of extravasation or injection into unintended areas. Ultrasound guidance also allows for better assessment of vein size, flow patterns, and surrounding anatomical structures, contributing to more effective treatment and reducing the likelihood of complications.

Using less than 10 cc of foam sclerotherapy can also be beneficial, as it reduces the volume of sclerosing agent introduced into the circulation at one time, potentially lowering the risk of adverse effects. However, using ultrasound guidance provides a more direct enhancement of safety through improved accuracy and monitoring.