Do I really need as much treatment as my doctor is recommending?

I had a VNUS closure of a GSV, then I had another RAF closure of the same vein (20 cm only). Now, my doc wants to do radiofrequency closure of the small saphenous vein. Is this really necessary? Thank you!

Answers from doctors (9)


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Feb 11, 2019

If you are unsure, you should seek a second opinion from a board-certified, vascular-trained surgeon. This should help you to make the decision. The criteria for sealing the saphenous vein is when the patient has symptoms that affect their quality of life.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

If you are unsure, you should seek a second opinion from a board-certified, vascular-trained surgeon. This should help you to make the decision. The criteria for sealing the saphenous vein is when the patient has symptoms that affect their quality of life.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Feb 10, 2019

I can't say for sure without examining you and looking at your ultrasound. However, if you don't have significant varicose veins on the posterior (back) and lateral (outside) of your calf, you likely do not need to have your small saphenous vein closed. If you have concerns, I would definitely seek a second opinion of another vein specialist.

Wishing you the best of health,

Dr. Wright

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

I can't say for sure without examining you and looking at your ultrasound. However, if you don't have significant varicose veins on the posterior (back) and lateral (outside) of your calf, you likely do not need to have your small saphenous vein closed. If you have concerns, I would definitely seek a second opinion of another vein specialist.

Wishing you the best of health,

Dr. Wright

Published on Jul 11, 2012


The need to close your small saphenous vein is a decision based on your history and symptoms. If you are still having symptoms from the varicose veins arising from the small saphenous vein, then closing that vein may benefit you.

Answered by Weill Cornell Vein Treatment Center (View Profile)

The need to close your small saphenous vein is a decision based on your history and symptoms. If you are still having symptoms from the varicose veins arising from the small saphenous vein, then closing that vein may benefit you.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Nov 19, 2015

Possibly not. If you have no complaints, then don't have it. That is the simple answer.

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Answered by Advanced Vein Center

Possibly not. If you have no complaints, then don't have it. That is the simple answer.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Institute of Connecticut

Published on Nov 19, 2015

This is a great question. A common misconception among many folks is that great results can be had with a single procedure. Without knowing too much of the details of your particular clinical history, it is not uncommon for multiple procedures to be indicated to achieve optimal results. This may involve doing several closures of different veins in the same leg, and/or a combination of closure plus microphlebectomy, UGS and sclerotherapy.

That said, it is ultimately your body. If you are satisfied with the results you have achieved so far, then take a wait and see approach for further treatment. But I would caution you to continue your relationship with your provider - if you are happy with him/her - as venous disease is a chronic condition, and a satisfactory result today may still require further management to ensure a quality long-term result.

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Answered by Vein Institute of Connecticut

This is a great question. A common misconception among many folks is that great results can be had with a single procedure. Without knowing too much of the details of your particular clinical history, it is not uncommon for multiple procedures to be indicated to achieve optimal results. This may involve doing several closures of different veins in the same leg, and/or a combination of closure plus microphlebectomy, UGS and sclerotherapy.

That said, it is ultimately your body. If you are satisfied with the results you have achieved so far, then take a wait and see approach for further treatment. But I would caution you to continue your relationship with your provider - if you are happy with him/her - as venous disease is a chronic condition, and a satisfactory result today may still require further management to ensure a quality long-term result.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


It really depends upon your symptoms. You need to analyze how much improvement you had after the first procedure and whether you still have some symptoms that need further treatment. At Premier Vein and Vascular we have a clear policy: "Don't treat the scan, treat the symptoms".

Answered by Premier Vein and Vascular Center (View Profile)

It really depends upon your symptoms. You need to analyze how much improvement you had after the first procedure and whether you still have some symptoms that need further treatment. At Premier Vein and Vascular we have a clear policy: "Don't treat the scan, treat the symptoms".

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana

Published on Nov 19, 2015

Venous ablation of the greater saphenous is beneficial for varicose veins and venous insufficiency symptoms. Uncommonly, short saphenous ablation is needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your vascular surgeon for available options.

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Answered by Vascular Center and Vein Clinic of Southern Indiana

Venous ablation of the greater saphenous is beneficial for varicose veins and venous insufficiency symptoms. Uncommonly, short saphenous ablation is needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your vascular surgeon for available options.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Nov 19, 2015

It is not uncommon to have the GSV and the SSV undergo a closure procedure, but you should not have to have the GSV closed in 2 sessions unless this is something that occurred a long time after the initial closure. Be sure you see a board-certified vein specialist.





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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

It is not uncommon to have the GSV and the SSV undergo a closure procedure, but you should not have to have the GSV closed in 2 sessions unless this is something that occurred a long time after the initial closure. Be sure you see a board-certified vein specialist.





Published on Jul 11, 2012


Texas Vein And Cosmetic Specialists

Published on Nov 19, 2015

No. Venous disease isn't limb threatening. If you don't want to do a procedure, then don't do it.

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Answered by Texas Vein And Cosmetic Specialists

No. Venous disease isn't limb threatening. If you don't want to do a procedure, then don't do it.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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