Questions to Ask a Vascular Surgeon Before Your VNUS Closure Procedure
If you are considering the VNUS Closure procedure, now is a good time to write down questions for your vascular surgeon. VNUS Closure is a treatment for varicose veins that replaces the old-school vein stripping. The goal is to close a varicose vein and improve your overall leg health.
During the VNUS Closure procedure, vein doctors insert a small catheter into the affected vein. Using radiofrequency energy to irritate the vein wall, they cause it to shrink and, eventually, disappear. Even though this procedure is minimally invasive and done right in the office, it is normal to have some questions.
How Long Will it Take to Recover From VNUS Closure?
The vein clinic staff will have you up and walking almost immediately after the procedure. This helps get the blood flowing and reduces the risk of clots. You should notice improvement in how your leg feels right away. Some heaviness and aches will disappear once the problem veins close.
Most patients are able to resume normal activity after resting just one day. There may be some bruising or slight swelling around the insertion site, but it will be minimal and should not affect your ability to walk.
Does VNUS Closure Hurt and Are There Risks?
Staff at the Houston area vein clinic apply a local anesthetic to your leg before the procedure to reduce your discomfort. You might feel a pinch or some pulling during the treatment and, afterwards, there can be swelling and slight pain, but this will be temporary.
VNUS Closure uses radiofrequency to heat vein walls, but the risk of burn is very low. The anesthesia helps keep the leg stable, so there is no jerking that might cause damage to leg tissue or burning.
With any surgical procedure, there are risks, such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or infection, but these are rare with VNUS Closure.
Will Insurance Pay for VNUS Closure?
Some insurance companies require you to try less drastic approaches first, like compression stockings. The clinic will contact your insurance company for approval prior to doing the procedure, so you should know beforehand if they pay for it or not. For many patients, vein closure is a medical necessity for leg health and proper circulation, so the insurance company does pay.
VNUS Closure is a cutting edge treatment option for those suffering from varicose veins. It replaces the more invasive surgical procedures, like vein stripping, and is part of a comprehensive program to improve your quality of life. Combined with lifestyle changes, VNUS Closure can relieve leg discomfort and get you moving again.
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