Introduction

The most recent innovation in the treatment of varicose veins is VenaSeal, otherwise known as vein glue.

The VenaSeal closure system uses an advanced medical adhesive that closes the diseased vein. It is the only non-thermal, non-tumescent, non-sclerosant procedure approved for use in the U.S., which means no heat and no swelling.

VenaSeal is developed by Medtronic and used to seal saphenous veins in the thigh or calf region. Once the vein has been treated, it will harden and gradually be absorbed by the body. The procedure is minimally invasive similar to endovenous vein ablation.

It is a non-thermal, non-tumescent curative procedure used to treat varicose veins. It is equally effective as endovenous ablation but without heat or tumescent anesthesia. Instead, VenaSeal involves the injection of a medical adhesive into the affected vein, sealing it shut and redirecting blood flow to healthy veins. This minimally invasive procedure requires no compression stockings post-treatment and has a fast recovery time. VenaSeal is a safe and effective alternative to traditional vein stripping surgery, with a high success rate and patient satisfaction.

How Does VenaSeal Work?

The VenaSeal procedure involves the percutaneous placement of a small catheter through the skin using minimally invasive techniques. In place of heat energy, the catheter delivers small amounts of vein glue to the targeted segments of the saphenous vein under ultrasound guidance. Once the affected vein is closed, blood is immediately re-routed through other healthy veins in the leg. Because VenaSeal does not use any heat energy, there is minimal need for even local anesthesia during the procedure. Stockings are usually not necessary after VenaSeal treatment. This provides added comfort for patients and allows them to return to normal activities sooner.

How Effective is the VenaSeal Procedure?

The published success of the VenaSeal closure procedure is equal to other endovenous procedures, including laser ablation (EVLA).

VenaSeal has been independently studied in the United States and Europe over the last decade. In addition to effective treatment of saphenous veins, published results show a low risk of complications.

What is VenaSeal Made of?

VenaSeal is a treatment that involves the implant of cyanoacrylate, a medical-grade glue. It is a quick, minimally invasive procedure that takes approximately 30 minutes in experienced hands.

Interesting properties of VenaSeal that make it particularly useful in vein treatment include:

• It rapidly polymerizes on contact with blood resulting in an immediate effect on the vein walls.
• The glue displaces the blood inside the vein and seals the walls shut. As a result, compression stockings are not required after vein treatment.
• Has an “anti-microbial” effect against bacteria on the skin.