VNUS Offers Relief from Superficial Venous Reflux and Varicose Veins

In Midwest City, Oklahoma and in other parts of the country, patients have found relief from superficial venous reflux through VNUS, a minimally invasive procedure designed to destroy problem veins using radiofrequency energy. Varicose veins are a common symptom of superficial venous reflux and can be very burdensome to live with. Many patients report pain and heaviness in their legs as a result of varicose veins, while many are also troubled by the aesthetically unappealing appearance of the disease.

Varicose veins may appear as bulging and are often purplish in color. The majority of patients affected by varicose veins are women, although men may also be affected. Some estimates indicate that varicose veins affect between 10% and 20% of the adult population. Where invasive surgical techniques that require a general anesthetic and a significant period of downtime were once the standard for treatment, many patients and vein specialists are now turning to minimally invasive options like VNUS.

With VNUS, a general anesthetic is not required. A local anesthetic will be applied before treatment to numb the area and ensure patient comfort. Moderate sedation may also be used to further ensure patient comfort during treatment. A single needle stick or a small incision is used to insert a thin catheter into the greater saphenous vein. Radiofrequency energy is then delivered to the vein, causing it to heat, collapse and eventually seal shut. Most VNUS procedures take between 30 minutes and an hour to perform and patients may go home the same day.

Healthy veins will then take over blood flow to empty blood from the legs. Symptoms should drastically improve as normal blood flow is restored. The leg is wrapped for about a day following treatment. Compression stockings may then be worn to aid in healing and to promote healthy blood flow. Patients are often encouraged to walk after treatment, but should avoid strenuous activities and should not stand for long periods of time. Normal activities are often resumed after about 1 or 2 days.

Before treatment, patients should consult a medical professional in the Midwest City area to discuss their candidacy for VNUS. Those with large varicose veins may be treated using VNUS, while patients with spider veins should seek other treatments. Veins that are healthy and do not have insufficient or leaky valves should not be removed, as they may be needed in future open heart surgeries. This should be discussed with a vein specialist.

As with most medical procedures, possible side effects and complications have been associated with VNUS. It is recommended that patients seek an experienced and qualified specialist to perform VNUS to avoid these risks and complications as much as possible. Risks and complications include vessel perforation, thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, phlebitis, hematoma, infection, skin burn, numbness and tingling.

Interested patients should consult a knowledgeable professional in the Midwest City area to further discuss VNUS and other venous treatments. This is the best resource for more information about varicose veins and other vein-related topics.

Learn more about VNUS in Midwest City, Oklahoma.