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VNUS Closure Procedure


VNUS Closure is a minimally invasive and highly effective procedure to treat varicose veins that require only local anesthesia. Dr. Bardwil from TX Vein, our vein clinic in Houston, successfully performs this procedure to treat varicose veins.

Varicose veins are the bulging veins in legs that become more visible when a person stands or sits for prolonged periods of time. Treatment begins with an accurate diagnosis. Examination with Venous Duplex Ultrasound will identify your specific problem or problems to allow for optimal diagnosis and treatment.  A recommended treatment may be thermal ablation of the saphenous vein. 

What is VNUS closure?

The VNUS Closure procedure is a minimally invasive vascular treatment, that serves as an alternative to the traditional painful vein stripping procedure. It employs a small catheter to heat the end of an unhealthy vein, prompting it to contract and seal shut. This redirects blood flow toward healthier veins.

What does VNUS stand for?

The first company to get FDA approval for this treatment method was VNUS. Their device was introduced as trade name VNUS closure.  Though that company no longer exists, and the newer devices such as Veinclose are more effective, the name VNUS Closure is still frequently associated with radiofrequency ablation of the saphenous vein. 

VNUS radiofrequency closure as an alternative to vein stripping

Prior to 20 years ago, vein stripping was a standard treatment for varicose veins.  This procedure, usually done under general anesthesia, involved the surgeon making many incisions and literally pulling out the abnormal veins. This, of course, resulted in permanent scarring. In 2011, the Society for Vascular Surgery and The American Venous Forum, the two most credible medical organizations, recommended thermal ablation over vein stripping because it is less invasive.  

Today, however, technology has evolved so that varicose veins can be treated making one or two small incisions to insert the catheter.  Radiofrequency ablation, now called Veinclose, is a minimally invasive, vein closure procedure that is done in the office and requires only local anesthesia.

How does Veinclose work?

During the vein procedure, a small catheter is passed up the length of the affected vein in the leg. The tip of the catheter is heated by radiofrequency energy and, as the catheter is pulled back, the vein shrinks and becomes obliterated by scar tissue.  Branches, which appear as the visible varicose veins, may also disappear, although sometimes an additional office procedure may be required to treat varicose or spider veins that don’t disappear.  Most patients don’t require any time off work to recover.  

Benefits of the VNUS radiofrequency closure procedures

The VNUS closure procedure is a minimally invasive one and can be carried out under local anesthetic. Relief from symptoms would be the main benefit to opt for treatment. Normal activity can usually be resumed straight after treatment. The likelihood of wound infection and scarring is reduced as there is no surgical procedure involved. Other desirable benefits include less pain and bruising.

VNUS radiofrequency closure procedure recovery

The recovery rate with the VNUS closure method is usually faster than the conventional surgical method. It is usual for patients having had a VNUS closure procedure to resume normal activities within a day.

VNUS radiofrequency closure procedure side effects and potential complications

The Veinclose method is considered a very safe procedure but as with any other type of medical treatment, there can be side effects. Any surgical procedure has risk for bleeding or infection, but serious infections or bleeding are rare when a qualified vascular surgeon performs the vein closure procedure. Mild soreness and inflammation are to be expected following a radio frequency ablation with Veinclose. 

Thermal ablation vs vein stripping – what is the difference?

Vein stripping, which involves surgically removing the saphenous vein is rarely done now.  VNUS closure makes use of state-of-the-art technology to prompt superficial veins to close. Unlike vein stripping which is an extensive surgical procedure performed under a general anesthetic, the VNUS closure method can be performed not only as an outpatient, which involves a hospital or surgery center, but in an office setting, requiring only local anesthetic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the radiofrequency closure procedure painful?

As a minimally invasive procedure, the VNUS closure method produces relatively little pain and discomfort.

Is this procedure covered by insurance?

It is always best to check with individual medical insurance companies whether they cover a certain procedure.  All major insurance carriers and Medicare cover this procedure, unless your specific policy has an exclusion. We also have a list of accepted insurance companies that we accept in our clinic.

Why Work With Dr. Bardwil?

Dr. Michael BardwilDr. Bardwil is a Board Vascular Surgeon, which means that he is uniquely qualified to treat veins.   Certifications through such organiztions as the American Vein and Lymphatic Society are not recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties, and likely won’t be.

Having his Specialty Board in Vascular Surgery, coupled with three decades of experience, he is the kind of certified vein doctor you want.  Dr. Bardwil knows which treatment options are best for you.

Board Certification in the right specialty makes a difference. Your initial consultation is covered by most insurance plans. Insurance coverage for treatment is based on medical necessity.

Get Your Veins Evaluated in Houston

Call Texas Vein and Cosmetic Specialists today to discover why so many men and women, including prominent Houston physicians and politicians, have come to trust Dr. Bardwil with their vein problems. The testimonials of countless patients substantiate our success in fulfilling our mission through the provision of top-notch treatment options.

Related posts: Questions to ask a vascular surgeon before your VNUS closure procedure

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Dr. Bardwil has meticulously written or reviewed all the website content, ensuring that all the medical facts in the text are correct.


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