VNUS

The VNUS® procedure is a minimally invasive treatment alternative for patients with a condition known as superficial venous reflux, often resulting in varicose veins and other painful symptoms. Varicose veins are known for their distinctive blue color and bulging appearance on the skin. They resemble large, elongated striations, and they afflict an estimated 10%-20% of the adult population, the majority of which are women.

The procedure is an outpatient procedure performed in doctors' offices, surgical centers and hospitals. Local anesthesia with moderate sedation is used to ensure comfort during treatment. Using a single needle stick or a small incision, a thin catheter is inserted into the greater saphenous vein. The catheter delivers radiofrequency (RF) energy to the vein wall, causing it to heat, collapse and seal shut.

Once the diseased vein is closed, other healthy veins take over and empty blood from your legs. As normal return flow is re-established, your symptoms should improve noticeably.

Following the procedure, the catheter is removed, a bandage is placed over the insertion site and your leg may be wrapped typically for 1 day to aid healing. Your doctor may ask you to walk, wear compression stockings, and to refrain from standing for long periods of time following the procedure to help speed your recovery. Many patients resume normal activity within 1-2 days.

Patient benefits of the Closure include minimally invasiveness, requiring no general anesthesia and the ability for most patients to walk out of the medical facility within hours. Stripping is often performed under general anesthesia which necessitates a longer time within the medical facility. Convalescence following stripping can take weeks and involve significant pain.