Varicose veins are a visible symptom of venous reflux cause by damaged or diseased valves in the veins. The damage or disease results in a backward flow of blood in the legs (venous reflux). Then, the blood pools, prompting pain, swelling and varicose veins.

The pain, swelling and unsightly appearance of varicose veins can be quickly relieved by a new minimally invasive procedure. The VNUS Closure® procedure is an alternative treatment to traditional vein stripping surgery for patients with venous reflux.

Instead of removing the veins, this procedure uses radiofrequency (RF) ablation to close the damaged veins. After local or regional anesthesia numbs the area, a thin probe (catheter) is inserted into the vein through a small incision. The probe emits RF energy to heat the vein until it collapses and closes shut. Once the vein is closed, blood is rerouted to healthy veins. Patients typically experience quick recovery and healing time. Most people can return to work in one to three days, compared to one to two weeks for the traditional procedure.

Because the outpatient procedure calls for tiny incisions, there is little or no scarring. Patients who have this procedure are primarily women, ages 35-55, and people who are very tall. Women often suffer from varicose veins as a result of bearing children. Those who are very tall often have more problems with blood flow in their legs as well.