Varicose Vein procedure by Foam Injection
Milford Vascular Institute is now offering Varithena®, a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment for varicose veins.
What is Varithena®?
Varithena® (polidocanol injectable foam) is a prescription medicine used to treat varicose veins caused by problems with the greater saphenous vein (GSV) and other related veins in the leg's GSV system. Varithena® improves symptoms related to or caused by varicose veins.
What to expect during the treatment:
Treatment with Varithena® does not require any incisions or general anesthesia. It usually takes the provider less than an hour to administer Varithena®.
Varithena® is administered by a provider into the malfunctioning veins. Varithena® is administered through a catheter or by direct injection into the vein. The foam fills the desired section of the vein, and the diseased vein collapses. Blood flow shifts to healthier veins nearby. The doctor usually numbs the injection site, but no additional anesthesia is required.
Potential side effects to Varithena®:
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Minimal leg pain or discomfort
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Slight bruising at the injection site
Aftercare Instructions:
You may resume most normal activities the same day.
You should walk for at least 10 minutes a day for a month after the procedure. Avoid long periods of inactivity.
Wear thigh high compression stockings for 2 weeks after treatment, during waking hours.
Do not soak in a bathtub, jacuzzi, or pool for 3 days.
Do not perform any high-impact activities, such as heavy lifting or running, for 7 days after treatment.
You will follow up with the office 7-10 days post-treatment for evaluation.
Who can receive Varithena®?
Factors that limit a person's ability to be treated with Varithena® include the type of vein, the patient's medical history, and the patient's insurance plans.
Varithena® treats a wide variety of varicose veins. However ,not all varicose veins can be treated with this product. The veins which make the best candidates for Varithena® treatment are: Tortuous (twisted) veins; veins above and below the knee; veins with small, medium, and large diameters; and veins previously treated with other methods.
Medicare & Medicare Replacement Plans cover Varithena®. Other insurance plans have varying protocols for coverage of this product. Our insurance coordinators will always check before your procedure to see the procedure will be authorized by your insurance.
You should not receive Varithena® if you have an allergy to polidocanol or if you have a history of blood clots.