21, 2, 2024

How does ClariVein® help with vein health?

2024-03-06T13:48:21-08:00

Exploring the Innovative ClariVein® Procedure: Benefits, Procedure Walkthrough, and More

For those grappling with backward blood flow or “reflux” in their saphenous vein(s), the ClariVein® procedure stands as a promising minimally invasive remedy. In this article, we’ll delve into the mechanics of this groundbreaking treatment and provide insights into what to anticipate on the day of the procedure. Discover how ClariVein® can help restore leg health and significantly improve your quality of life.

Understanding How the Treatment Functions

The ClariVein® procedure is designed to effectively address saphenous vein reflux. This minimally invasive approach takes less than an hour, allowing patients to resume their daily routines on the same day. But how does this innovative treatment function?

The process commences by numbing the skin with lidocaine. Once the skin is adequately anesthetized, a ClariVein® catheter is cautiously inserted into the affected vein. This catheter executes two crucial treatments:

Mechanical Treatment with a Delicate Rotating Wire: Featuring a small rotating wire, the ClariVein® catheter gently closes the problematic vein. This mechanical treatment is painless yet remarkably effective.

Chemical Treatment using Polidocanol: Alongside the mechanical treatment, the catheter administers polidocanol, a detergent-type sclerosant medication commonly employed in varicose vein treatments. This chemical treatment further contributes to the closure of the vein.

Surprisingly, this technique necessitates only one skin puncture, similar to the placement of an IV. It’s a minimally invasive approach designed to minimize discomfort for patients.

What to Expect on the Treatment Day

Now that you have a clearer understanding of how the ClariVein® procedure operates, let’s delve into what awaits you on the day of your treatment.

Local Anesthesia and Mild Oral Sedative: The procedure is conducted under local anesthesia. Many patients opt to take a mild oral sedative, like Valium, for added relaxation, typically after check-in and paperwork completion.

Comfortable Setup: Upon changing into a gown (leaving your underwear on), you’ll be positioned based on the specific vein to be treated—lying on your back or belly. Special accommodations are arranged for your comfort.

Entertainment Options: To help you relax, you’ll have access to entertainment like watching a movie on Netflix or listening to music during the procedure.

Ultrasound Mapping: Before the treatment begins, the doctor uses ultrasound to map the vein(s) requiring treatment.

Numbing and Puncture: The numbed area of the skin undergoes a tiny puncture to pass the ClariVein® catheter. Lidocaine is injected to ensure a painless process.

Treatment Process: Once the catheter and rotating wire are in place, the doctor initiates the treatment. You might feel a tickling or vibrating sensation, but pain should be minimal to nonexistent.

Compression Stocking: Following the procedure, you’ll be aided in wearing a compression stocking, to be worn continuously for 72 hours.

Post-Procedure Walk: Before departure, you’ll be encouraged to walk for 30 minutes to enhance circulation, further boosting the treatment’s effectiveness.

In Conclusion

The ClariVein® procedure presents a swift, minimally invasive remedy for saphenous vein reflux. By grasping the treatment’s mechanism and anticipating the procedure day, you can approach it confidently. Bid farewell to the discomfort of saphenous vein reflux and usher in a healthier, pain-free future with ClariVein®.

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Amanda Steinberger, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts

How does ClariVein® help with vein health?2024-03-06T13:48:21-08:00

28, 12, 2023

Varicose Veins Unveiled

2023-10-11T18:10:26-07:00

Varicose Veins Unveiled

Varicose veins, those prominent and twisted veins beneath the skin’s surface, are a common concern for many individuals, often bringing discomfort and aesthetic worries. In this enlightening blog post, we’ll explore the complexities of varicose veins and the underlying condition known as venous reflux disease. From understanding the root causes to uncovering the range of symptoms and treatment options, join us on a voyage to attain better vein health and lasting relief.

Grasping Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are swollen and twisted veins, most visibly affecting the legs. Though widespread, they can be a source of pain and cosmetic distress, making it crucial to gain a comprehensive understanding of these veins and how to address them effectively.

Identifying the Culprits: The Causes of Varicose Veins

The primary trigger for varicose veins lies in malfunctioning vein valves, which lead to blood accumulation within the veins. This pooling of blood causes the veins to expand and become varicose. Underlying venous reflux disease, known by various names like venous stasis, venous insufficiency, or venous incompetence, is frequently the contributing factor to the development of varicose veins. Venous reflux disease arises when blood backflows within the deep and superficial leg veins.

Insights from Research

A groundbreaking study, led by Dr. Nisha Bunke and published in the Journal of Vascular Ultrasound in 2018, examined more than 1,000 legs affected by varicose veins. This research revealed that a substantial majority—well over 90%—of the sources of varicose veins were the great and small saphenous veins. The Great Saphenous Vein (GSV) travels through the middle of the thigh and calf, while the small saphenous vein (SSV) courses along the back of the calf.

Unveiling the Symptoms

Both varicose veins and venous reflux disease manifest an array of symptoms, including aching, tenderness, heaviness, fatigue, restlessness in the legs, burning and throbbing pain, itching, leg cramps (particularly at night), ankle swelling, skin discoloration, and even skin ulcers that may form above the ankle. Left untreated, complications may arise, such as painful inflammation of the veins (superficial phlebitis), blood clots within varicose veins (superficial thrombophlebitis), and skin problems like discoloration, eczema, or ulcers.

The Power of Ultrasound Diagnosis

A fundamental component of accurate diagnosis is duplex ultrasound technology, which is used to assess veins beneath the skin’s surface. This technology not only detects faulty valves and determines the direction of blood flow but also identifies any obstructions or scars within the veins, providing invaluable information for devising a tailored treatment plan.

A Tailored Approach to Treatment

A holistic approach to managing varicose veins involves multiple steps:

Step 1: Addressing the Root Issue

The core of treatment lies in resolving venous reflux. This entails focusing on the saphenous veins, often the source of the problem. Innovative vein ablation procedures, such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), laser ablation, mechanico-chemical ablation (MOCA), and Varithena Foam, are utilized to reinstate proper blood flow.

Step 2: Managing Varicose Veins

After successfully treating the underlying reflux, the next step is to address the varicose veins themselves. Common methods include foam sclerotherapy, involving the injection of a foamed medication to induce scarring and eventual dissolution, and phlebectomy, which entails small incisions for vein removal.

Varicose veins and venous reflux disease impact numerous lives, resulting in discomfort and aesthetic concerns. By gaining insight into their root causes, recognizing the array of symptoms, and exploring innovative treatments, individuals can take charge of their vein health. At La Jolla Vein & Vascular, we’re devoted to delivering personalized care and effective solutions to alleviate symptoms and enhance your quality of life. If you’re ready to embark on the path to healthier veins, don’t hesitate to contact us today and take the first step towards achieving sustained relief and well-being.

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Amanda Steinberger, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts!

Varicose Veins Unveiled2023-10-11T18:10:26-07:00

28, 11, 2023

Clarivein Procedure: A Gentle Solution for Venous Disease Relief

2023-10-10T16:57:39-07:00

Clarivein Procedure: A Gentle Solution for Venous Disease Relief

If you’ve been grappling with the challenges of saphenous vein reflux, also known as “reflux,” the ClariVein® procedure could hold the key to a minimally invasive solution. In this blog post, we’ll embark on an in-depth exploration of this innovative treatment, unraveling its inner workings and detailing what you can anticipate on the day of the procedure. Join us on a journey to understand how ClariVein® can help you regain your leg health and the quality of life you deserve.

Deconstructing the Treatment Process

The ClariVein® procedure is meticulously crafted to address saphenous vein reflux effectively. This minimally invasive approach boasts a remarkable feature: it can be completed in under an hour, enabling patients to resume their daily activities on the same day. But what is the secret behind its success?

The procedure kicks off with the application of lidocaine to numb the skin. Once the skin is sufficiently anesthetized, a ClariVein® catheter is gently inserted into the problematic vein. This catheter carries out two pivotal treatments:

  • Mechanical Treatment with a Tiny Rotating Wire: The ClariVein® catheter is equipped with a minute rotating wire that delicately and painlessly closes the problematic vein. This mechanical treatment is not only gentle but also highly effective.
  • Chemical Treatment with Polidocanol: In addition to the mechanical aspect, the catheter delivers polidocanol, a detergent-type sclerosant medication frequently used in varicose vein treatments. This chemical treatment further contributes to the closure of the vein, enhancing the overall success of the procedure.

Remarkably, this technique necessitates just one skin puncture, comparable to the insertion of an IV. It’s a minimally invasive approach designed with patient comfort in mind, ensuring minimal discomfort throughout the process.

What to Anticipate on Treatment Day

Now that you have a clearer grasp of the ClariVein® procedure’s mechanics, let’s dive into what you can expect on the day of your treatment.

Local Anesthesia and Optional Mild Oral Sedative: The procedure is conducted under local anesthesia. However, for enhanced relaxation during treatment, many patients opt to take a mild oral sedative like Valium. This sedative is typically administered after you check in and complete the necessary paperwork.

Comfortable Setup: You’ll be provided with a gown, and you can retain your underwear. The specific vein to be treated will determine whether you lie on your back or belly. Special accommodations are readily available to ensure your utmost comfort throughout the procedure.

Entertainment Choices: To help you relax during the treatment, you’ll have the option to watch a movie on Netflix or listen to music.

Ultrasound Mapping: Before the treatment commences, the physician will employ ultrasound to map the vein(s) in need of treatment.

Numbing and Puncture: In the numbed area of your skin, a small puncture is made to allow for the passage of the ClariVein® catheter. Lidocaine is administered to guarantee a pain-free experience during this step.

Treatment Phase: Once the catheter and its rotating wire are in position, the treatment is initiated. During this phase, you may experience a tickling or vibrating sensation, with any discomfort being minimal to nonexistent.

Application of Compression Stocking: Following the procedure, you’ll be assisted in wearing a compression stocking, which should be continuously worn for 72 hours.

Post-Procedure Walk: Prior to your departure, you’ll be encouraged to take a 30-minute walk to stimulate circulation, enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment.

In Conclusion

The ClariVein® procedure offers a swift, minimally invasive solution for saphenous vein reflux. By gaining insight into how this treatment operates and understanding what to expect on the day of your procedure, you can approach it with confidence. Bid farewell to the discomfort of saphenous vein reflux and welcome a future characterized by health and freedom from pain with ClariVein®.

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Amanda Steinberger, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts

Clarivein Procedure: A Gentle Solution for Venous Disease Relief2023-10-10T16:57:39-07:00

5, 10, 2023

Clarivein: innovative vascular care explored-benefits, procedure & more

2023-09-29T18:17:04-07:00

Clarivein: innovative vascular care explored-benefits, procedure & more

If you’re suffering from backwards flow, or “reflux,” in your saphenous vein(s), the ClariVein® procedure could be the minimally invasive solution you’ve been looking for. In this blog post, we’ll explore how this innovative treatment works and what you can expect on the day of the procedure. Discover how ClariVein® can help you regain your leg health and quality of life.

How Does the Treatment Work?

clarivein

The ClariVein® procedure is designed to effectively treat saphenous vein reflux. This minimally invasive approach can be completed in less than an hour, allowing patients to return to their daily activities on the same day. But how exactly does this treatment work?

The process begins with numbing the skin using lidocaine. Once the skin is sufficiently anesthetized, a ClariVein® catheter is carefully inserted into the unhealthy vein. This catheter performs two essential treatments:

  • Mechanical Treatment with a Tiny Rotating Wire: The ClariVein® catheter features a small rotating wire that gently closes the problematic vein. This mechanical treatment is painless and highly effective.
  • Chemical Treatment with Polidocanol: In addition to mechanical treatment, the catheter delivers polidocanol, a detergent-type sclerosant medication commonly used in varicose vein treatments. This chemical treatment further aids in closing the vein.

Remarkably, this technique requires only one skin puncture, similar to the placement of an IV. It’s a minimally invasive approach with minimal discomfort for patients.

What Should I Expect on the Day of Treatment?

Now that you have a better understanding of how the ClariVein® procedure works, let’s delve into what you can expect on the day of your treatment.

  • Local Anesthesia and Mild Oral Sedative: The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. However, many patients opt to take a mild oral sedative, such as Valium, to further relax during the treatment. This is typically taken after checking in and completing paperwork.
  • Comfortable Setup: You’ll change into a gown, leaving your underwear on. Depending on the specific vein to be treated, you may lie on your back or belly. Special accommodations are made if needed, ensuring your comfort during the procedure.
  • Entertainment Options: To help you relax, you’ll have the option to watch a movie on Netflix or listen to music during the procedure.
  • Ultrasound Mapping: Before the treatment begins, the doctor will use an ultrasound to map the vein(s) that require treatment.
  • Numbing and Puncture: In the numb area of the skin, a tiny puncture is made to pass the ClariVein® catheter. Lidocaine is injected to ensure you don’t feel any pain during this process.
  • Treatment Process: Once the catheter and rotating wire are in place, the doctor initiates the treatment. During this phase, you may experience a tickling or vibrating sensation, but pain should be minimal to nonexistent.
  • Compression Stocking: After the procedure, you’ll be assisted in wearing a compression stocking, which you should keep on continuously for 72 hours.
  • Post-Procedure Walk: Before leaving, you’ll be encouraged to walk for 30 minutes to promote circulation. This helps enhance the effectiveness of the treatment.

Conclusion

The ClariVein® procedure offers a quick, minimally invasive solution for saphenous vein reflux. By understanding how this treatment works and what to expect on the day of your procedure, you can approach it with confidence. Say goodbye to the discomfort of saphenous vein reflux and hello to a healthier, pain-free future with ClariVein®.

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Amanda Steinberger, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts

Clarivein: innovative vascular care explored-benefits, procedure & more2023-09-29T18:17:04-07:00

27, 6, 2023

Mechanical Chemical Ablation

2023-05-24T18:08:04-07:00

The ClariVein® procedure (mechanical chemical ablation)

for treatment of backwards flow (or “reflux”) in your saphenous vein(s). The great and small saphenous veins are the two main superficial veins of the leg. They run along the inner leg and the back of the leg, respectively.

This minimally invasive procedure can be performed in the office in less than an hour and patients return to their usual level of activity the same day.

HOW DOES THE TREATMENT WORK?

mechanical chemical ablation

The skin is numbed with lidocaine, then the ClariVein® catheter is placed into the unhealthy vein. The catheter closes the vein painlessly by delivering two treatments:

  1. Mechanical treatment with a tiny rotating wire.
  2. Chemical treatment with polidocanol. Polidocanol is a detergent-type sclerosant medication that is commonly used in varicose vein treatment.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT ON THE DAY OF TREATMENT for mechanical chemical ablation?

The procedure is performed with local anesthesia, but many patients elect to use a mild oral sedative (Valium), which is taken after checking in and completing all paperwork.  You will change into a gown and leave underwear on.  Depending on the vein to be treated, you will lay on your back or on your belly. We do our best to make special accommodations (for example, if you cannot lie flat or cannot bend a knee very well) with body positioning and using pillows. We will do our best to make you comfortable.  Then, we will give you the option of watching a movie on Netflix or listening to music.  Once you are comfortable, your leg (s) will be prepped with a cleansing solution for the sterile procedure.

The doctor will perform an ultrasound to map the vein (s) to be treated.  

Then, a numbing agent (lidocaine) will be injected into the skin. In the numb area of the skin, a tiny puncture is made to pass the Clarivein® catheter.  Once the catheter and rotating wire are in place, the doctor will start the treatment.  You may feel a tickling or vibrating sensation as she treats your vein.  You should have minimal to no pain during this procedure.

Once your vein has been treated, we will help you into your compression stocking, which you will wear for 72 hours continuously.  You will walk for 30 minutes prior to getting in your car.

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Elliot DeYoung, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts!

Mechanical Chemical Ablation2023-05-24T18:08:04-07:00

1, 3, 2023

Varicose Vein Treatment Options

2023-02-13T15:15:17-08:00

Conservative Management & Lifestyle Modifications

The goals of treatment are to relieve symptoms, prevent complications and for some to improve appearance.  Lifestyle changes can ease the symptoms, but do not cause the veins to vanish.  These treatments include:

  • Avoid standing or sitting for long periods of time:  To keep blood moving when you have to sit or stand for long periods, try these tips: at work, take walking breaks and try walking during your lunch hour. While sitting, try flexing your feet up and down ten times an hour.
  • Exercise: Exercising is good for your veins because it improves blood flow. Walking, cycling or swimming are great exercises for vein health. But be sure to check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
  • Weight loss or maintaining a healthy weight: Being overweight puts extra pressure on your veins.
  • Leg elevation: Use leg elevation three or four times a day for about 15 minutes at a time. Even elevating your legs on a step stool or ottoman is beneficial. If you need to sit or stand for a long period of time, flexing (bending) your legs occasionally can help keep blood circulating. If you have mild to moderate varicose veins, elevating your legs can help reduce leg swelling and relieve other symptoms.
  • Compression stockings: These elastic stockings squeeze or compress the veins and prevent blood from flowing backward. Compression stockings must be graduated, medical-grade compression to be beneficial. Over the counter,support hose or TED hose are not adequate to reduce symptoms in venous disease for active patients.
  • Supplements such as horse chestnut and grape seed extract can help reduce symptoms of venous disease. Check with your doctor before starting supplements.
  • Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen.
  • Anti-inflammatory topical agents such as OTC Arnica, or prescription voltaren gel may be helpful for painful phlebitis.
  • Ice packs can be applied to veins that are tender to reduce inflammation

Procedures for Treating Varicose Veins

 

Step 1: The Underlying Problem 

The first step is to treat the underlying problem, the venous reflux. The specific pattern of venous reflux was detected by ultrasound. Venous reflux usually starts in the saphenous veins. The saphenous veins are most effectively treated with vein ablation procedures. This involves placing a small catheter within the vein and using heat or a solution to produce injury and eventual closure of the vein. The most commonly used treatments for the saphenous veins are radiofrequency ablation (RFA), laser ablation, mechanico-chemical ablation

(MOCA or Clarivein), and in some cases Varithena Foam or Venaseal.

The treatment recommendation is customized, based on where reflux is present and other factors that need to be considered when making this decision.

These will involve the following:

  • Your age, overall health, and medical condition.
  • Extent of the condition.
  • The findings of your venous ultrasound.
  • Your signs and symptoms.
  • Your tolerance of specific medicines, procedures, or therapies.
  • Expectations for the course of the condition.
  • Your opinion or preference.

Step 2: Varicose Vein Treatment

After the underlying saphenous vein reflux is corrected, the bulging veins (varicose veins) can be treated by injecting a foamed medication that will cause them to scar and eventually dissolve (foam sclerotherapy), or to remove them using tiny incisions. The most common method is foam sclerotherapy. This is also known as ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy (UGFS). Phlebectomy is another option which includes making small incisions to remove the vein.

 

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Elliot DeYoung, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 

For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link.

 

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency, check this link out full of resources. 

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 


Varicose Vein Treatment Options2023-02-13T15:15:17-08:00

12, 4, 2022

3 Venous Reflux Disease Treatments for underlying vein reflux

2022-04-12T10:08:56-07:00

3 Venous Reflux Disease Treatments for underlying vein reflux:

 

The ClariVein procedure

When someone is diagnosed with underlying vein reflux disease, the ClariVein procedure is for the treatment of backwards flow (or “reflux”) in your saphenous vein(s). The great and small saphenous veins are the two main superficial veins of the leg. They run along the inner leg and the back of the leg, respectively.

This minimally invasive procedure can be performed in the office in less than an hour and patients return to their usual level of activity the same day.

How does the treatment work?

The skin is numbed with lidocaine, then the ClariVein® catheter is placed into the unhealthy vein. The catheter closes the vein painlessly by delivering two treatments:

  1. Mechanical treatment with a tiny rotating wire.

  2. Chemical treatment with polidocanol. Polidocanol is a detergent-type sclerosant medication that is commonly used in varicose vein treatment.

This technique is highly effective in closing the vein and only requires one skin puncture, similar to placing an IV.

 

In the video linked here, Dr. Bunke discusses the ClariVein® procedure for vein reflux disease.  The other video shows how the treatment is done. We offer many other videos on our YouTube channel.   After care instructions can be found on our website under the patient resources tab.

 

ClosureFast an endovenous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) procedure

The procedure is for the underlying diagnosis of vein reflux disease, which can cause a  backward flow of blood (or “Venous reflux”) in your saphenous vein(s). The great saphenous veins and small saphenous veins are the two main superficial veins of the leg. They run along the inner leg and the back of the leg, respectively. This minimally invasive procedure can be performed in the office in less than an hour and patients usually return to their usual level of activity the same day.

 

How does the treatment work?

The skin is numbed with lidocaine, then a tiny wire and the Closurefast® catheter are inserted into the vein. The catheter delivers radio-frequency energy to the vein wall, causing it to seal shut. The remaining healthy veins continue to bring blood back to the heart.

 

What is Varithena?

Varithena® is a “microfoam” formulation of polidocanol (sclerosing agent) and CO2. The result is a microfoam that has an appearance and consistency similar to white, foamy shave cream. Ultrasound guidance is used to inject Varithena® microfoam into the vein. The microfoam fills the lumen for circumferential contact where it’s designed to displace blood and destroy the endothelial lining efficiently.

 

3 Venous Reflux Disease Treatments for underlying vein reflux2022-04-12T10:08:56-07:00

28, 6, 2020

3-Stage Approach to Vein Treatment

2020-09-17T17:58:02-07:00

When visible signs of venous disease such as spider veins, varicose veins, or skin changes are present, this is usually the tip of the iceberg, and an underlying vein problem is present. An underlying vein condition (venous reflux disease) can be detected with ultrasound. A treatment plan is focused on treating the underlying vein problems first, then working outwards.

image of an Iceberg as a metaphor for the hidden dangers of vein disease

Iceberg, a metaphor for the hidden dangers of vein disease

How Is Venous Reflux Disease Treated?

Step 1: The Underlying ProblemThe first step is to treat the underlying problem, the venous reflux. The specific pattern of venous reflux was detected by ultrasound. Venous reflux usually starts in the saphenous veins. The saphenous veins are most effectively treated with vein ablation procedures. This involves placing a small catheter within the vein and using heat or a solution to produce injury and eventual closure of the vein. The most commonly used treatments for the saphenous veins are radiofrequency ablation (RFA), laser ablation, mechanico-chemical ablation (MOCA or Clarivein), and in some cases Varithena Foam. The treatment recommendation is customized, based on where reflux is present and other clinical factors.

Step 2: Varicose Veins

After the underlying saphenous vein reflux is corrected, the bulging veins (varicose veins) can be treated by injecting a foamed medication that will cause them to scar and eventually dissolve (foam sclerotherapy), or to remove them using tiny incisions. The most common method is foam sclerotherapy.  This is also known as ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy (UGFS).

Step 3: Spider Veins

Spider vein treatment is always considered a cosmetic procedure. If improved cosmesis is a goal of treatment, make sure to discuss this with your doctor and plan on having cosmetic treatment as the last step. Spider vein treatment is accomplished by sclerotherapy, which is an injection of a liquid medication into the spider veins. Most patients use 3 vials, and have an average of 3 treatment sessions.  Ask your provider for an estimate about how many treatment sessions/ vials are necessary to get the results you want.

 

3-Stage Approach to Vein Treatment2020-09-17T17:58:02-07:00

Do I Need Surgery for Varicose Veins?

2020-09-17T19:01:32-07:00

Non-surgical treatment alternatives for eliminating varicose veins

No! We’ve performed thousands of surgery-free treatments. 

Surgery is rarely performed these days to eliminate varicose veins. Modern endovenous procedures, which were first introduced around the year 2000, have replaced surgery for most patients. Endovenous became the standard of care over vein stripping surgery in 2007.  Treatment can be done in a doctor’s office, without general anesthesia, thereby reducing risks. At our facility, we offer multiple non-surgical treatment options so that vein care is individualized and based on what is best for the patient rather than on what is available. There are multiple non-surgical treatment options, including radiofrequency ablation (RFA), clarivein, laser vein ablation, endovenous laser therapy (EVLA), varithena foam, microfoam, ultrasound guided foam sclerohterapy, ambulatory phlebectomy.

go to our treatments page for more information

 

Do I Need Surgery for Varicose Veins?2020-09-17T19:01:32-07:00
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