A Nonsurgical Outpatient Solution for Varicose Veins
The Interventional Radiology Suite at Bryn Mawr Hospital is pleased to offer the VNUS® Closure® procedure, as well as other treatment modalities, for comprehensive management of vein disease. The Closure procedure is a minimally invasive treatment alternative for patients with a condition known as superficial venous reflux, which often results in varicose veins and other painful symptoms. Varicose veins are known for their distinctive blue color and bulging appearance on the skin. Resembling large, elongated worms, they afflict an estimated 10 to 20 percent of adults. In the U.S. that translates into 20 to 25 million people, the majority of whom are women. Learn more about varicose veins.
How the Closure Procedure Works
Traditionally, patients diagnosed with venous reflux would undergo painful vein stripping surgery to correct this condition. Now, patients whose varicose veins are causing symptoms can be treated with the minimally invasive Closure procedure. This treatment is an outpatient procedure performed using imaging guidance. Local anesthesia with moderate sedation ensures comfort during the treatment.
An interventional radiologist guides a probe through a tiny tube (catheter) into the diseased vein—most often the great saphenous vein, which runs from the foot to the groin and is the source of most venous reflux—and then transmits radio frequency energy to close off the vein. By closing the vein, the twisted and varicosed branch veins, which are near to the skin, shrink and improve in appearance. Once the vein is closed, other healthy veins take over to carry blood from the leg and reestablish normal flow.
.GIF "Closure procedure diagram")
With the Closure procedure, there is no incision, no significant scarring, and most patients report an improvement in symptoms within one to two weeks of having the procedure. Published data suggest that patients remain free of varicose veins after two years about 90 percent of the time.
Following the procedure, the catheter is removed, a bandage is placed over the insertion site and the leg may be wrapped, typically for one day to aid healing. Patients may be asked to walk, wear compression stockings and refrain from standing for long periods of time following the procedure to help speed recovery. Many patients resume normal activity within one to two days.
For more information, consult our list of FAQs about the Closure procedure.
Benefits of the Closure Procedure
Interventional treatment provides a safe and effective alternative to vein stripping. Benefits of the noninvasive Closure procedure include:
- Quick relief of symptoms
- Immediate return to normal activity with little or no pain
- No scar or stitches
- Low recurrence rate compared to surgery
- Success rates ranging from 93 to 95 percent
Insurance
Many major insurance carriers cover the Closure procedure, based on medical necessity for symptom relief.
Contact Us
For more information or to schedule an appointment with a Bryn Mawr Hospital interventional radiologist, call 1-866-CALL-MLH.
