Endovenous Closure
The VNUS Closure® procedure is the medically proven, minimally-invasive treatment for people suffering from superficial venous reflux, which causes the pain, swelling and unsightliness of varicose veins. A thin catheter is 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.
The procedure is performed in our office under local anesthesia and patients will be ready to resume their regular activities immediately after the procedure. In fact, it is a requirement that patients walk approximately 30-60 min on the same day after the procedure. The is some minimal bruising and swelling after the procedure, but the most patients report very little pain. Noticeable improvement in symptoms is seen after 1-2 weeks.
Radiofrequency (VNUS) vs. Laser Closure?
Endovenous Closure can be accomplished by delivering heat generated by Radiofrequency energy (VNUS ClosureFAST RF) or by Laser energy.
At EMA, we have chosen the VNUS ClosureFAST RF over a laser-based system. From the dates March 23, 2007 to December 14, 2007 a six-center single-blinded randomized trial was conducted evaluating the patient recovery experience of patients treated with the VNUS ClosureFAST RF Catheter and the 980nm endovenous laser (The RECOVERY trial).
The conclusions of this study showed;
1. 100% Vein occlusion in both RF and laser groups
2. Procedure times were similar between RF and laser
3. Compared to laser, RF treatment with ClosureFAST produced significantly:
Less pain
Less tenderness
Less bruising
Fewer adverse events