What Condition Does VNUS Treat?

Varicose veins may be a troubling condition for individuals in Gilbert, Arizona or in other parts of the country. They may appear as bluish or purplish in color and may bulge from the skin, causing a very unsightly and often embarrassing appearance. To combat varicose veins and treat their symptoms, which may include pain and heaviness in the legs, many turn to minimally invasive treatments and procedures that are available at many clinics around the country. Of course, with such a wide selection to choose from, it is advisable that interested individuals explore all possible treatment options before proceeding with any treatment.

VNUS is one such minimally invasive procedure that helps those suffering from superficial venous reflux, which often results in varicose veins, find relief from this condition. This is an outpatient procedure that may be performed in a doctor's office or a surgical center or local hospital. Those who undergo this treatment will be given a local anesthetic along with moderate sedation to ensure the patient's comfort throughout the procedure. A single needle stick or a small incision is then used to deliver the thin catheter into the greater saphenous vein. Radiofrequency energy is then delivered to the vein wall via the catheter, heating it and causing it to collapse and seal shut. The vein becomes fibrous tissue and over time will disappear.

Healthy veins take over blood flow in the area once the vein being treated has been closed. The symptoms should improve as normal return flow is restored in the area. A bandage will be placed over the insertion site and the leg wrapped for about a day to aid in the healing process once the catheter has been removed. Many specialists may ask that the patient walk and wear compression stockings following treatment, and that they avoid standing for a long period of time after the procedure. Normal activities are usually restored after about a day or two.

Most VNUS procedures take about 30 minutes to an hour to perform and the patient is observed and allowed to go home that same day. In some cases, the patient may feel mild pain during the procedure, but the local anesthetic is given to numb the skin. Possible side effects of this treatment may include minimal to no scarring, bruising and swelling, and these should go away on their own after about one to two weeks. Other possible risks and complications that have been associated with VNUS include vessel perforation, thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, phlebitis, hematoma, infection, numbness, tingling and skin burn.

Those who are suffering from varicose veins that are causing negative symptoms that are of a medical concern may find that insurance will cover the cost of this procedure in part or in full. Before insurance companies cover the procedure, however, many require a trial period of wearing compression stockings and exercising to see if this is effective in treating symptoms. To determine if insurance will cover the procedure, those interested should consult a vein specialist in the Gilbert area as well as their insurance company.

Learn more about VNUS in Gilbert, Arizona.