VNUS: Using Radiofrequency Energy to Destroy Varicose Veins

Individuals who are suffering from varicose veins in the Bronx, New York area have found relief from this condition through minimally-invasive procedures such as VNUS. This is an outpatient procedure that may be performed in a doctor's office, a surgical center or in a hospital. A local anesthetic may be applied during the procedure along with a moderate sedation to help ensure the patient's comfort throughout the procedure. A thin catheter is used to deliver the radiofrequency energy to the vein wall so that it heats, collapses and seals shut.

Varicose veins may lead many to feel embarrassed or self-conscious due to the appearance of the bulging, purplish or bluish veins. What's more, varicose veins may lead to pain and heaviness in the legs, making treatment very important for many sufferers of this condition. When the varicose veins have symptoms, insurance companies typically cover the cost of the procedure either in part or in full. Before they will cover them, however, insurance companies may require that the patient goes through a trial period of wearing compression stockings and exercising to see if that helps reduce symptoms of the condition.

Ultrasound visualization is used during the procedure. The leg will first be cleaned and then a local anesthetic is injected into the thigh area below the knee. Next, a needle is placed into the vein and through it a Closure Catheter is inserted. With the catheter in position, radiofrequency energy is applied to the vein walls to heat and collapse the vein. The catheter is then removed and the procedure leads to the closure of the vein. Afterwards, a bandage is applied over the treatment area and additional compression may be provided to help ensure that the area is kept clean. Patients are typically allowed and encouraged to walk after the procedure is performed and resume normal activities.

A session of VNUS may take between 30 minutes and an hour to perform and the patient is allowed to return home the same day, making this a convenient procedure for many individuals. Some may experience minor pain during the procedure, but a local anesthetic is given to numb the skin area. Those who play sports or practice heavy lifting on a regular basis, waiting five to seven days to resume these activities is required after the procedure to ensure safety during the recovery process.

Patients typically notice improvement in symptoms after about one to two weeks. The cosmetic appearance of the condition may take a few more months to show improvement. Some of the possible side effects associated with VNUS may include minimal to no scarring, bruising and swelling, although most should disappear after one to two weeks. Potential risks and complications may be minimized by seeking treatment from a trained professional, but may include vessel perforation, thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, phlebitis, hematoma, infection, numbness, tingling and skin burn. To learn more about these possible risk, complications and side effects, individuals should seek consultation with a trained Bronx vein specialist.

Learn more about VNUS in Bronx, New York.