Varicose veins can be both an annoyance and a disruption to your quality of life. These large, bulging marks mostly found in the legs and feet can be unsightly and painful, and can lead to complications. They’re even more common in women who are pregnant.
Complications in the veins of the legs and feet can result in varicose veins. These veins pump blood against the flow of gravity back to the heart, but if there is an abnormality, this process doesn’t happen correctly and blood can pool up or flow in the wrong direction. This causes those blue or black marks, usually in the legs or near the feet.
One option for treatment is a new method called the VenaSeal closure system. This system closes the affected vein in a non-invasive way, and can be very effective for some people. Here’s a look at the basics of VenaSeal closure, and if it might be right for you.
How it Works
The purpose of VenaSeal treatment is to close the affected vein permanently, and reroute blood through other healthy veins. This involves an adhesive called VenaSeal glue, formerly referred to as “Sapheon Glue” (named after the saphenous vein), being placed into the vein using a catheter. It is quickly able to shut and eventually harden the vein, a process called sclerosis.
Things to Expect
If you’re looking to get VenaSeal treatment for varicose veins, there are several steps you’ll take:
- Ultrasound: Called a duplex ultrasound in this case, this maps out the exact location of the affected vein.
- Local anesthetic is applied to the lower leg.
- Catheter insertion: A small catheter is inserted into an entry point usually located at the knee.
- Glue insertion: VenaSeal glue is injected into the vein, with additional small amounts injected every 3 centimeters along the vein.
Many treatments for varicose veins involve compression stockings, but those are usually not necessary with VenaSeal closure treatment. The procedure is extremely safe, and you’ll be encouraged to return to normal walking and basic activity right away.
There are a few minor side effects that are possible with VenaSeal closure. Some people will have soreness in their thigh, which usually doesn’t appear for a few days or weeks after treatment, but this isn’t a big concern and can be treated with basic anti-inflammatory medicines approved by your doctor. There are a few risks involved in the procedure, mostly related to allergic reactions and injection-related complications. There is only a small amount of anesthetic used, and there are no major drugs required before the procedure.
Effectiveness
Per research over the last several years in both the United States and Europe, VenaSeal Closure has a success rate just short of 99 percent in the short term. Long term, it has a closure rate of 92.9 percent. It has fewer complications attached to it than other forms of surgery for varicose veins, and the limited amount of anesthesia that’s required is a factor for many people. The glue itself isn’t harmful to the body at all.
If you’re dealing with varicose veins, VenaSeal Closure could be a great option for you. Speak to your doctor to find out if it would be the right treatment.
Sources:
“VenaSeal (Vein Glue).” Vein Health Medical & Cosmetic. https://www.veinhealth.com.au/varicose-veins-treatments/venaseal
“Experience the VenaSeal Closure System.” Medtronics. http://medtronicendovenous.com/patients/7-2-venaseal-closure-procedure/