Treat Superficial Venous Reflux with VNUS

Updated on: August 18, 2014

Those suffering from superficial venous reflux in Paradise Valley, Arizona have found success and relief through the VNUS procedure. Varicose veins is often a symptom of this condition and can be quite unpleasant for many patients. Some patients suffering from varicose veins feel embarrassed by their condition, as these veins are often known to be very unattractive. Varicose veins often have a distinctive blue color and are known to be rather bulgy. The majority of those afflicted with varicose veins are women, although men may be affected as well. The best way to determine which treatment may provide the most promising results is to speak with a medical professional at a reputable medical clinic in the area.

VNUS is commonly performed on an outpatient basis in a doctor's office, a clinic or in a hospital. To ensure that patients are comfortable during treatment, a local anesthetic may be used along with a moderate sedative. In performing this procedure, the physician will use a single needle or a small incision to insert a catheter into the greater saphenous vein. Radiofrequency energy is then delivered to the vein wall. As a result, the vein is heated, collapses and seals shut. Over time, the vein will disappear. The catheter is then removed and the leg is wrapped in a bandage for about a day to help with healing. Patients are often advised to walk and wear compression stockings following the procedure. Patients may also be encouraged to avoid standing for a long period of time after the procedure. Patients are often able to resume their normal activities one to two days following treatment with VNUS. It is a good idea to speak with a medical professional about recovery and downtime, as individual cases may differ.

Upon completion of this procedure and the sealing shut of the problem vein, other veins will take over, which should establish normal return flow in the legs. Once this happens, the patient's symptoms should decline. No general anesthesia is required for this procedure and the procedure is only minimally invasive, which is attractive to many patients. Some surgical procedures may require a general anesthetic, a stay in the hospital and a significant period of recovery and downtime. VNUS is an alternative to traditional vein stripping surgical procedures, which may be much more invasive.

VNUS may take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes to complete. Some patients have reported minor pain during this procedure, although a local anesthetic is used to help numb the treatment area. Possible side effects of VNUS include minimal scarring, swelling and bruising, although most of these side effects typically reside in a few days. Possible complications associated with VNUS may include vessel perforation, thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, phlebitis, hematoma, infection, numbness or tingling and skin burn. Patients are encouraged to discuss these possible risks with a medical professional to help minimize risk and determine their own candidacy for this procedure.

Patients in Paradise Valley who are suffering from large varicose veins may be considered candidates for this procedure. Patients with spider veins may be advised to seek other treatment options. Veins that do not have leaky valves and are normal shouldn't be removed during any procedure, as future heart surgeries may require the use of these valves. Speaking with a medical professional on this topic is important.

Learn more about VNUS in Paradise, Arizona.

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