VenaSealTM procedure
Minimally invasive nonthermal treatment for vein disease and varicose veins.
The different steps of the VenaSealMD procedure
The VenaSealMD procedure delivers a small amount of a specially formulated medical adhesive to seal — or close — the diseased vein, rerouting blood to nearby healthy veins and providing symptom relief. The VenaSeal closure system is a safe and effective treatment, offering significant improvement in quality of life.
Step 1: Catheter is placed in the vein
Using an ultrasound, your doctor will position a catheter into the diseased vein through a small access site.
Step 2: Specialized adhesive is placed
A specially formulated medical adhesive is placed in the diseased vein via a small catheter.
Step 3: Light external pressure is applied
Light external pressure is applied to adhere the vein walls together. This step is repeated for the length of the vein.
Step 4: Catheter is removed
The catheter is removed and a single adhesive bandage is applied to the vein access site.
Before the procedure
You will have an ultrasound imaging exam of the leg being treated. This exam is important for assessing the diseased superficial vein and planning the procedure.
During the procedure
Your doctor can discuss the procedure with you. Here is a brief summary of what to expect:
- You may feel some minor pain or stinging with a needle stick to numb the site where the doctor will access your vein.
- Once the area is numb, your doctor will insert the catheter (i.e., a small hollow tube) into your leg. You may feel some pressure from the placement of the catheter.
- The catheter will be placed in specific areas along the diseased vein to deliver small amounts of the medical adhesive. You may feel a mild sensation of pulling. An ultrasound will be used during the procedure to guide and position the catheter.
After the procedure
- After treatment, the catheter is removed and a small adhesive bandage is placed over the puncture site.
- You will be taken to the recovery area to rest.
- Your doctor will recommend follow-up care as needed.
VENASEALMD PROCEDURE FAQ:
Is the VenaSealMD procedure painful?
Most patients feel little, if any, pain during the outpatient procedure.
When can I return to normal activity?
The VenaSealMD procedure is designed to reduce recovery time. Many patients return to normal activity immediately after the procedure. Your doctor can help you determine when you can return to normal activity.
When will my symptoms improve?
Symptoms are caused by the diseased superficial vein. Thus, symptoms may improve as soon as the diseased vein is closed.
Is there bruising after the VenaSealMD procedure?
While bruising is common with all vein treatments, patients report it to be mild and to resolve with no treatment or with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication.
What happens to the VenaSealMD procedure adhesive?
Only a very small amount of VenaSealMD procedure adhesive is used to close the vein. Your body will naturally create scar tissue around the adhesive over time to keep the vessel permanently closed.
How is the VenaSealMD procedure different from thermal energy procedures?
The VenaSealMD procedure uses an adhesive to close the superficial vein. This differs from thermal energy procedures that use heat to close the vein. This intense heat requires numbing medicine, which is injected through multiple needle sticks. The injections may cause pain and bruising after the procedure.
Is the VenaSealMD procedure covered by insurance?
As with any procedure, insurance coverage may vary. Insurance companies detail access to the VenaSealMD procedure and other nonthermal ablation procedures in coverage policies for varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency. Please reach out to your insurance company to discuss your specific plan coverage and potential costs prior to seeking treatment.