  
| Venous Surgery | Carotid Surgery | Aneurysm Surgery | | Sympathectomy | Vascular Reconstructions | General Surgery | VNUS CLOSURE - A NEW TECHNIQUE FOR TREATING VARICOSE VEINS VNUS CLOSURE is a new technique for the long saphenous varicose veins (varicose veins originating from the groin) which has recently been introduced to this country from the USA. Early results indicate that the main advantages of this technique are less pain and bruising resulting in a quicker recovery from the procedure and a much earlier return to normal activities such as walking, driving and work. Many patients report a return to normal activities within days rather than weeks. How does VNUS CLOSURE differ from the standard operation for varicose veins? The main difference is that this technique avoids an incision in the groin and the need to strip the vein in the thigh. A needle is inserted into the vein either at the ankle or the knee and a special electrode catheter is inserted through the needle into the vein. Occasionally a small incision is needed. The catheter is advanced up the vein into the groin and placed just below the junction of the long saphenous vein and the femoral vein. Ultrasound scanning is used during the operation to verify the correct positioning of the catheter. A compression bandage is applied to the leg and a specially controlled electric current is passed through the catheter. The electric current causes the vein to shrivel-up as the catheter is slowly withdrawn. Small avulsions are performed to remove other prominent veins in the leg and completes the procedure. Most patients can go home the same day avoiding an overnight stay in hospital. Who would benefit most from VNUS CLOSURE? This technique is of most benefit to those people with mild to moderate varicose veins and who have busy domestic or work schedules who do not want to stay overnight in hospital and require a quick return to normal activity. The technique is also beneficial for patients with recurrent varicose veins as a second incision through existing scar tissue in the groin is avoided. What are the disadvantages of VNUS CLOSURE? Because VNUS CLOSURE is a new technique the are no long term results on the recurrence rates of varicose veins. Results are available for several hundred patients at 2 years post-procedure and recurrence rates appear to be low but results are needed for 5 years and 10 years post-procedure for the long term recurrence rates to be known. Complications of the technique are similar to those for standard varicose vein surgery. Skin burns, deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism have been reported in early cases. Is VNUS CLOSURE covered by my medical insurance? VNUS CLOSURE is more technically demanding than standard varicose vein surgery and is only performed by specially trained surgeons. The technique requires the use of special equipment (electric current generator, electrode catheters etc.) and the use of special ultrasound scans both before and during the operation. Therefore, VNUS CLOSURE is more expensive than standard varicose vein surgery and medical insurance companies vary as to whether they will cover the full cost of the procedure If you are not covered by medical insurance or your insurance company will not pay for VNUS CLOSURE but you still wish to proceed, a 'fixed price' can be arranged for you. For more information about VNUS closure please visit the site www.vnus.com The practice of medicine and surgery is not an exact science and reputable practitioners cannot properly guarantee results either expressed or implied. These procedures are highly advanced and discussion about them (including risks and benefits) should be with your specialist. |
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