Radiofrequency: VNUS Closure

What is VNUS Closure?

VNUS closure is a minimally invasive nonsurgical method of treating varicose veins that uses radiofrequency (RF) energy.

 How does it work?

Using ultrasound for guidance a tiny catheter is passed through the skin into the varicose vein.

Radiofrequency (RF) energy is then applied through the catheter to deliver heat to the varicose vein wall.

The thermal energy from the radiofrequency causes the vein wall to shrink resulting in the varicose vein being sealed shut. Once the varicose vein is closed blood becomes rerouted to other healthy veins.

Where is the treatment done?

The Closure procedure does not require admission to hospital and can be performed on a walk in walk out basis in our rooms.

How established is the Closure procedure?

Since 1998 over 500 000 Closure procedures have been performed worldwide.

In the UKit is an approved procedure with the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). In the USA Radiofrequency Closure treatment is one of the most popular nonsurgical techniques for the treatment of varicose veins.

Is the Closure procedure painful?

Local anesthesia is used and patients typically report feeling little, if any, pain during and after the procedure.

How quickly can I resume normal activity?

Patients are walking immediately following the procedure, and patients typically resume normal activities within one day.

How soon will my symptoms improve?

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.

What are the potential complications?

The majority of patients report minimal to no bruising or swelling but about 5% of patients have bruising or slight tenderness that lasts for longer than 3 days.  About 1% of patients experience some numbness in the leg but this is almost always temporary.  Deep vein thrombosis is a very rare complication and much less common than in vein stripping procedures that use general anaesthesia.

How is the Closure procedure different from vein surgery?

During surgical vein stripping, incisions are made in the groin and calf, and a stripper tool is threaded through the vein, to pull the vein out of the leg. With the Closure procedure, only one tiny incision is made at the insertion site and the vein is then closed and left in place. This minimally invasive approach eliminates the pain and bruising associated with vein stripping surgery.

What if I need the vein for bypass surgery in the future?

The Closure procedure treats diseased veins only.   Varicose veins that are treated are not appropriate for bypass surgery. Surgeons can use other healthy vessels should bypass surgery be necessary in the future.