Vein Treatment
Vein Treatment by Issam A. Halaby, MD
What is the Varithena Procedure?
Varithena is a foam sclerotherapy treatment that uses a medication called polidocanol to collapse varicose veins. The foam is injected into the affected vein using a tiny needle, causing the vein wall to irritate and close. Over time, the treated vein is reabsorbed by the body, leaving your legs looking smoother and feeling less achy.
What to Expect After the Varithena Procedure
Varithena is an outpatient procedure, so you can return home the same day. Some minor discomfort and bruising at the injection sites are common and usually resolve within a few days.
General Timeline:
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Immediately after: You’ll be monitored for any allergic reactions and fitted with compression stockings, which should be worn for several weeks to reduce swelling and aid healing.
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First few days: Possible symptoms include leg pain, itching, and bruising. These can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications and ice packs.
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First week: Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting. Walking is encouraged to promote circulation.
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First few weeks: Bruising and swelling may persist but should gradually improve. Continue wearing compression stockings.
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After a few months: Significant improvement in the appearance of varicose veins is typically seen. Treated veins fade away completely over time.
Varithena Side Effects
Varithena is generally safe, but some side effects can occur:
- Injection site pain and bruising
- Allergic reactions (rare)
- Nerve irritation (rare)
- Blood clots (very rare)
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any severe or concerning symptoms.
Varithena Before and After
Results vary depending on the severity of your varicose veins, but most patients see notable improvement within a few months. Treated veins fade away, leaving your legs smoother and less achy.
Pros and Cons of Varithena
Pros:
- Minimally invasive
- No incisions or scars
- Quick recovery time
- Effective for various types of varicose veins
- Covered by most insurance plans
Cons:
- May require multiple sessions
- Not suitable for all patients
- Potential side effects
- Can be costly without insurance
Varithena vs. Other Varicose Vein Treatment Options
Other treatment options include:
- Laser ablation: Uses laser energy to heat and destroy the vein.
- Sclerotherapy: Injects a solution into the vein to collapse it.
- Phlebectomy: Surgical removal of varicose veins through small incisions.
The best option depends on your vein severity, health status, and treatment preference.
Understanding Venous Reflux and Vein Function
Leg veins carry blood back to the heart. When walking, calf muscles contract to push blood upward. Vein valves prevent the blood from flowing backward.
If valves fail, venous reflux occurs — blood flows backward toward the feet, increasing pressure in the veins. This can cause veins to enlarge (varicose veins), lead to swelling, pain, discoloration, or even ulcers.
Superficial vs. Deep Vein Systems
- Superficial veins: Located outside the muscle. They are often redundant and can be treated or removed safely.
- Deep veins: Located within the muscle. They are essential and cannot be sacrificed, even if they malfunction.
Vein Ultrasound & Treatment Options
A diagnostic ultrasound assesses blood flow direction in both vein systems:
- If reflux is found in the superficial system, veins may be treated with heat, glue, or foam (chemical ablation).
- If reflux is found in the deep system, treatment typically involves compression stockings only.
Though rare (1–5% risk), blood clots in the deep system can occur post-treatment, which may require blood thinners. Preventive steps are always taken to reduce this risk.
Role of Compression Stockings
Compression stockings help manage vein disease by:
- Reducing pressure on the calves, ankles, and feet
- Preventing disease progression
- Supporting post-treatment healing
Wear them when standing or walking, not when resting or sleeping. Even part-time use provides significant benefit.