The Closure® procedure
The VNUS® Closure procedure, an alternative treatment option to traditional vein stripping surgery, brings state-of-the-art technology to an age-old disease.
The Closure procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. Using ultrasound, your physician will position the Closure catheter into the diseased vein, through a small opening in the skin. The tiny catheter delivers radiofrequency (RF) energy to the vein wall. As the RF energy is delivered and the catheter is withdrawn, the vein wall is heated, causing the collagen in the wall to shrink and the vein to close. Once the diseased vein is closed, blood is re-routed to other healthy veins.
Following the procedure, a simple bandage is placed over the insertion site, and additional compression may be provided to aid healing. Your doctor may encourage you to walk, and to refrain from extended standing and strenuous activities for a period of time.
Patients who undergo the Closure procedure typically resume normal activities within a day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Closure procedure painful?
A: Patients report feeling little, if any, pain during and after the procedure.
Q: How quickly can I resume normal activity?
A: Patients are walking immediately following the procedure, and patients typically resume normal activities within one day.
Q: How soon will my symptoms improve?
A: Many patients notice an immediate relief of symptoms such as pain, leg heaviness and fatigue. The full benefits of the procedure may take 1-2 weeks.
Q: Is there any scarring, bruising, or swelling after the procedure?
A: Patients report minimal to no scarring, bruising, or swelling following the Closure procedure.
Q: How is the Closure procedure different from vein stripping?
A: During vein stripping, incisions are made in the groin and calf, and a stripper tool is threaded through the diseased vein, to pull the vein out of the leg. With the Closure procedure, only one small incision is made at the insertion site and the vein is then closed and left in place. This minimally invasive approach eliminates pain and bruising associated with vein stripping surgery.
Q: What if I need the vein for bypass surgery in the future?
A: The Closure procedure treats diseased veins only, which are not appropriate for bypass surgery. Physicians can use other healthy vessels should bypass surgery be necessary.
Q: Is the Closure procedure covered by insurance?
A: Most major health insurers cover the Closure procedure. Your physician can discuss your coverage further at the time of the consultation.