Varithena® Treatments
Varithena® is a minimally invasive, FDA-approved treatment used to treat varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency. The procedure utilizes a specialized microfoam medication that is injected into diseased veins, causing them to collapse and seal shut. Over time, the treated veins are naturally absorbed by the body, and blood is redirected to healthier veins.
Varithena® is particularly effective for treating larger varicose veins, including the great saphenous vein (GSV) and its associated branches, helping to improve circulation and relieve symptoms without surgery.
Why Varithena® Treatment Is Performed
Your healthcare provider may recommend Varithena® if you have:
- Varicose veins
- Chronic venous insufficiency
- Leg aching or pain
- Leg heaviness or fatigue
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
- Burning or throbbing sensations in the legs
- Skin discoloration related to vein disease
- Venous ulcers or slow-healing wounds
- Symptoms that persist despite compression stockings or conservative treatment
The procedure treats the underlying source of abnormal blood flow that contributes to venous disease.
How the Procedure Works
Before the Procedure
Preparation may include:
- Review of your medical history and medications
- Physical examination of the affected veins
- Duplex ultrasound evaluation to map vein function
- Discussion of treatment goals and expected outcomes
- Wearing comfortable clothing on the day of treatment
Most patients do not require fasting or significant preparation.
During the Procedure
- The patient lies comfortably on an examination table.
- Ultrasound imaging is used to identify the target vein.
- The treatment area is cleaned and prepared.
- A small needle or catheter is inserted into the affected vein.
- Varithena® microfoam is injected into the vein under ultrasound guidance.
- The foam displaces blood within the vein and causes the vein walls to collapse.
- The treated vein seals shut and is gradually absorbed by the body.
- Blood flow is naturally redirected to healthy veins.
- Compression stockings may be applied following treatment.
The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes and is performed in an outpatient setting.
What to Expect During the Procedure
- No surgical incisions are required.
- Most patients remain awake and comfortable.
- Local anesthesia is generally not necessary for many treatments.
- Ultrasound guidance ensures precise delivery of the foam.
- Patients can usually walk immediately after treatment.
- Most people experience little discomfort during the procedure.
Benefits of Varithena® Treatment
- Minimally invasive procedure
- No surgical incisions
- FDA-approved treatment
- Effective for larger varicose veins
- Improves symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency
- Quick outpatient treatment
- Minimal downtime
- Little to no scarring
- Can treat veins that may be difficult to access with other techniques
- Improved comfort, circulation, and quality of life
After the Procedure
Following treatment:
- Walking is encouraged to promote healthy blood flow.
- Compression stockings may be recommended for a period of time.
- Mild tenderness, tightness, or bruising may occur.
- Most patients return to normal activities within one to two days.
- Strenuous exercise may be temporarily restricted.
- Follow-up ultrasound examinations may be scheduled to evaluate treatment success.
Your physician will provide personalized post-treatment instructions.
Risks and Safety
Varithena® treatment is generally very safe, but potential risks include:
- Mild bruising or soreness
- Temporary swelling
- Tenderness along the treated vein
- Skin discoloration
- Inflammation of treated veins
- Blood clot formation
- Allergic reaction to the medication (rare)
- Temporary headache or visual disturbances (uncommon)
- Need for additional vein treatments in the future
Serious complications are uncommon when the procedure is performed by experienced specialists.
Understanding Your Results
Successful Varithena® treatment may result in:
- Reduction of varicose veins
- Relief of leg pain and aching
- Reduced swelling
- Less heaviness and fatigue in the legs
- Improved circulation
- Better healing of venous ulcers
- Improved appearance of the legs
- Enhanced comfort during daily activities
Results often continue to improve over several weeks and months as the treated veins are gradually absorbed by the body.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Varithena®?
Varithena® is an FDA-approved injectable microfoam treatment used to close diseased veins and improve symptoms associated with venous insufficiency and varicose veins.
Is Varithena® painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort. The treatment is generally well tolerated and does not require surgical incisions.
How long does the procedure take?
Most treatments are completed within 30 to 60 minutes.
When can I return to normal activities?
Many patients return to normal daily activities the same day or within 24 hours, although strenuous exercise may need to be postponed temporarily.
Will the treated veins come back?
The treated veins are permanently closed. However, new varicose veins may develop over time due to underlying venous disease or genetic factors.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are experiencing varicose veins, leg swelling, aching, heaviness, or symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, Varithena® may provide effective relief with a minimally invasive approach. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation and learn whether Varithena® treatment is the right option for your vein health and circulation needs.