TheVNUS Closure® procedure is a minimally invasive treatment for a condition known as superficial venous reflux, which can cause pain, swelling and varicose veins in your legs. The condition develops when the valves that usually keep blood flowing out of your legs become damaged or diseased.

Since valves can't be repaired, the only alternative is to re-route blood flow through healthy veins. Traditionally, this has been done by surgically removing (stripping) the troublesome vein from your leg.The VNUS Closure®procedure provides a less-invasive alternative to vein stripping by closing the problem vein instead.

 

See side images to view an illustration of theVNUS Closure® procedure.

The VNUS Closure® procedure is performed in doctors' offices, surgical centers and hospitals as an outpatient (day surgery) procedure. Local or regional anesthesia is used to numb the treatment area. A thin catheter is then inserted into the vein through a small opening. The catheter delivers radiofrequency (RF) energy to the vein wall, causing it to heat, collapse, and seal shut.

Once the diseased vein is closed, other healthy veins take over and empty blood from your legs. Your symptoms should also improve noticeably following the procedure.

After the catheter is removed, a bandage is placed over the insertion site and your leg may be wrapped for a day to aid healing. Your doctor may also ask you to walk, wear compression stockings and to refrain from long periods of standing for a few weeks following the procedure to help speed your recovery. Most patients can resume normal activity immediately.