VenaSeal, recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, is a highly-effective, minimally invasive procedure that uses medically-specified adhesive to close saphenous veins affected by venous reflux. It is currently the only medical procedure on the market that is neither thermal nor sclerosant, so the risk of any auxiliary nerve damage or lasting post-op pain is therefore minimized.  

What is Venous Reflux Disease?

Venous reflux (also known as chronic venous insufficiency) is the result of improperly functioning lower leg veins, as these veins are vital in blood circulation. Thus, instead of properly pumping blood back up to the brain and other crucial organs, the veins now reverse blood flow and collect in the legs (reflux) and cause varicose veins to manifest.  

How VenaSeal Works

VenaSeal closes problematic veins by inserting a catheter that fills the veins with a polymerizing clear liquid (a proprietary n-butyl-2-cyanoacrlyate adhesive formula), which is type of glue. The fluid then solidifies, effectively “sealing” the vein and remedying the reflux. Ultrasound imaging is used to accurately and strategically place the catheter in the proper position. As mentioned earlier, the recovery time is significantly shortened due to the lack of extensive incisions or heat used in the process.  

What are the Side Effects and Risks of VenaSeal?

As this procedure involves catheter ablation, the following side effects may occur in the treatment area: 

• Paresthesia (tingling and burning)    
  
• Phlebitis (inflammation)

The most common risks associated with VenaSeal are allergic reactions to the glue, blood clots, pulmonary artery blockage and bruising. Bear in mind that all medical procedures contain some risk; however other more invasive and damaging methods, such as ligation, may involve more extensive surgery time to treat varicose veins.    

For more information about varicose veins, click here.