Cardiothoracic Surgery of Savannah now offers treatment of varicose veins.

The VNUS Closure procedure is a minimally invasive treatment alternative for patients with a condition known as superficial venous reflux, which often results in varicose veins and other painful symptoms. Approximately 25 million people suffer from venous reflux.

Understanding Superficial Venous Reflux & Varicose Veins

Your legs are made up of a network of veins. A healthy vein contains valves which open and close to assist the return of blood to the heart. Varicose veins are caused by damaged or diseased valves which result in backward flow of blood in your legs, a condition known as venous reflux. This can cause blood to pool in your legs and lead to symptoms such as pain, swelling, and varicose veins.

Highlights of the Closure Procedure

• Relief of symptoms
• Short recovery
• Resume normal activities within 1-2 days
• Same day procedure
• Local or regional anesthesia
• Good cosmetic outcome with minimal or no scars

Common Questions and Answers about Closure

How is the Closure procedure different than vein stripping?

During a stripping procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in your groin and ties off the veins after which a stripper tool is threaded through the saphenous vein and used to pull the vein out of your leg through a second incision just about your calf. In the Closure procedure, there is no need for groin surgery, instead the vein remains in place and is closed using a special (Closure) catheter inserted through a small puncture. This virtually eliminates the bruising and pain often associated with vein stripping (i.e. this may result from the tearing of side branch veins while the saphenous vein is pulled out). Vein stripping is usually performed in an operating room, under a general anesthetic, while the Closure procedure is performed on an outpatient basis typically using local or regional anesthesia.

Is the procedure painful?

Patients report feeling little if any pain during the Closure procedure. Your physician will give you a local or regional anesthetic to numb the treatment area.

How quickly after the treatment can I return to normal activities?

Many patients can resume normal activities within 1-2 days. For a few weeks following the treatment, your doctor may recommend a regular walking regimen and suggest that you refrain from very strenuous activities (heavy lifting for example) or prolonged periods of standing.

How soon after treatment will my symptoms improve?

Most patients report a noticeable improvement in their symptoms in 1-2 weeks following the procedure.

Is there any scarring, bruising, or swelling after the procedure?

Patients report minimal to no scarring, bruising, or swelling following the Closure procedure.

Is Closure covered by my insurance?

Insurance coverage is determined on a per case basis. Most insurance companies determine coverage for all treatments, including the Closure procedure, based on medical necessity. Your physician can discuss your coverage further at the time of consultation.

How effective is the Closure procedure?

Recently published data suggests that two years after treatment, 90% of the treated saphenous veins remain closed and free from reflux, the underlying cause of varicose veins.