VNUS ClosureFAST is a painless procedure that treats varicose veins by addressing their underlying cause. It is an increasingly popular alternative to laser treatment and vein stripping surgery because it causes minimal pain and bruising and can be performed on an outpatient basis. Over 500,000 patients have had the procedure to date. Its technology has been present for about ten years and offers success rates of 90-95%.

During the VNUS ClosureFAST procedure, a thin catheter is inserted into the affected vein through a small opening less than 3 mm in diameter in the lower leg. The catheter delivers radiofrequency waves to the affected vein. The temperature-controlled radiofrequency energy irritates the lining of the vein wall, causing the vein to eventually shrink and collapse. Once the vein shuts down, the blood reroutes to healthy veins. Patients are encouraged to walk around and resume normal activities immediately following the procedure.

Because the VNUS ClosureFAST procedure is minimally invasive and catheter-based, it causes minimal downtime and scarring, in contrast to the classic surgical approach, vein stripping. Furthermore, since only a tiny incision needs to be made in order to insert the catheter, so general anesthesia and groin surgery are not necessary.

The VNUS ClosureFAST procedure is performed with local anesthesia. It is performed in the office in about one hour, and patients are immediately encouraged post procedure to be walking 30-60 minutes twice a day.

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VIDEO: VNUS Closure Procedure