Varicose veins are enlarged and twisted veins. They can happen anywhere in the body, but are more common in the legs. Varicose veins are often easily identifiable due to their twisted and discolored nature. When the valves fail to function, deoxygenated blood can leak through and pool in the vein, causing it to enlarge and develop a bluish-purple color. While they may be of cosmetic concern for some, varicose veins can progress into a significant medical issue for many.
It is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat small varicose veins. It involves injecting a special sclerosing solution into the damaged vein, which causes it to scar and collapse. This solution is inserted using ultrasound guidance at intervals of 2 to 3 centimetres along the entire length of the vein. The treated vein is then reabsorbed into the surrounding tissue, resulting in a visual fading of the veins from the legs.
The VenaSeal closure procedure is an innovative and effective treatment for varicose veins. Using a medical adhesive/glue, it seals the damaged vein and improves blood flow without the need for surgery. This method completely eliminates the risk of thermal nerve injury and allows for a rapid return to normal activities with minimal bruising.
It is a minimally invasive laser treatment for varicose veins. During the procedure, a small incision is made through which a thin laser fibre is inserted into the vein. The laser, located at the tip of the fibre, operates at a frequency ranging from 810 to 1470 nm. The heat produced by the laser causes the blood in the vein to clot, sealing the vein and stopping the blood flow.
During RFA treatment, a thin RFA fibre is inserted into the vein, which seals it shut to stop blood flow. Over time, the body absorbs the vein. The fibre releases radiofrequency energy into the vein, targeting the collagen in the vein wall, causing it to shrink.
During the surgery, you will be given general anaesthesia, and local anaesthesia will also be applied to your leg. The surgeon will make a small incision at the top of your leg, near the groin, and another incision at the ankle. The blood supply to the vein will be blocked off, and a fine wire will be inserted through the vein. The wire will be secured to the vein and then pulled back out, removing the vein from your leg. If necessary, smaller veins may also be removed through smaller incisions made along the leg.
VenaSeal is a minimally invasive closure system that treats varicose veins by gluing them shut. It is a safe and effective treatment that significantly improves the quality of the patient's life. The procedure improves blood flow and relieves symptoms by sealing or closing the diseased vein. During the treatment, a small amount of specially formulated medical adhesive (cyanoacrylate) is delivered to the diseased vein to permanently seal it. As a result, blood is rerouted through nearby healthy veins.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is an image-guided, minimally invasive technique used to treat varicose veins. During RFA, radiofrequency energy is applied to heat and damage the venous wall, causing the varicose vein to close off. The body will then absorb the treated vein, and blood will be redirected to nearby healthy veins.
Varicose veins affect about 30% of the population, becoming more common with age. Women develop varicose veins about twice as often as men.
Spider veins are a milder type of varicose veins. They are smaller, often look like a sunburst or "spider web," and are typically red or blue in color. They are commonly found on the face and legs, just under the skin.
Varicose veins, if left untreated, can lead to ulcers (open sores), bleeding, and skin discoloration. Severe varicose veins could indicate chronic venous insufficiency, which affects the veins' ability to pump blood to the heart. Individuals with varicose veins may have a higher risk of developing blood clots.
Although varicose veins can be unsightly and uncomfortable, they are not usually dangerous. However, severe cases can lead to serious health problems such as blood clots and inflammation or swelling of veins.
To diagnose varicose veins, our healthcare provider will conduct a physical examination and inquire about your symptoms, family history, activity levels and lifestyle. Additionally, you shall be asked to perform an imaging test, such as a duplex ultrasound (DUS). This non-invasive method uses sound waves to evaluate blood flow through the vessels in your legs.
Varicose veins aren't contagious, but they do run in families.
Unfortunately, varicose veins are not completely preventable, and the risk increases with age. However, there are still numerous ways to reduce the risk of development and minimize uncomfortable symptoms:
Maintaining a healthy weight.Exercising regularly.Not wearing tight clothing.Elevating your feet while sitting.Avoiding crossing your legs while sitting.VenaSeal and RFA are covered by insurance plan. However, the level of coverage may vary based on the specific plan. It would be better to ascertain from our coordinators and the insurance provider if it is covered and about any out-of-pocket fees.
Patients who are pregnant, have untreated Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), have active infections, are allergic to Cyanoacrylate, or have severe Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) cannot undergo VenaSeal/RFA procedure.
VenaSeal procedure is usually painless. The patient will only experience the sensation of a brief needle prick when receiving the local anaesthetic.
No, the glue has been trialed and tested for many years and is shown to be very safe and effective. The glue does not cause any harmful effects to the body.
VenaSeal procedure usually takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes to complete. This timeframe includes preparation, local anaesthesia administration, catheter insertion, positioning of the catheter within the vein, and application of the medical adhesive (cyanoacrylate) to seal the vein.
The recovery period for VenaSeal/RFA is very brief. You might be able to go back to work on the following day of the treatment.
You will be allowed to go home on the same day of the procedure, provided your condition is deemed appropriate for discharge by our healthcare team.
VenaSeal is a highly successful procedure, with up to 95% of patients enjoying symptom relief.
VenaSeal is primarily used to treat varicose veins in the legs, not varicocele. Varicoceles typically require different treatment approaches, such as surgical options (like varicocelectomy) or other techniques specifically designed for the spermatic cord. If you have concerns about varicocele treatment, it's best to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Radiofrequency Ablation usually demonstrates a success rate of 90%. If necessary, the procedure can be repeated.
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