The Venous System Anatomy

The venous system is made up of a network of veins, including superficial veins, veins located close to the surface of the skin; deep veins, which are larger veins located deep in the leg; and perforator veins, veins that connect the superficial veins to the deep veins.

Understanding Venous Reflux Disease

Healthy leg veins contain valves that open and close to assist the return of blood back to the heart. Venous reflux disease develops when these valves become damaged or diseased. As a result, vein valves will not close properly, leading to symptoms such as varicose veins, pain, swollen limbs, leg heaviness and fatigue, or skin changes and skin ulcers.

Discomfort, Swelling or Varicose Veins

Traditionally, patients diagnosed with venous reflux would undergo vein stripping surgery. Now, the Nebraska Heart Institute has introduced the revolutionary VNUS® Closure procedure, a minimally invasive and more comfortable alternative to painful and invasive vein stripping surgery.

Superficial venous reflux disease is progressive. Symptoms can worsen over time if left untreated.

Are you a candidate?

Many factors contribute to the presence of venous reflux disease, such as age, gender, family history, multiple pregnancies, obesity, and standing for long periods of time. Using an ultrasound to scan your leg(s), your physician can determine if superficial venous reflux is present.

The VNUS Closure® Procedure

This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. Using ultrasound, the Closure catheter is positioned into the diseased vein through a small opening in the skin. The tiny catheter, powered by radio-frequency energy, delivers heat to the vein wall. As the thermal energy is delivered, the vein will shrink and seal closed. Blood is then re-routed to other healthy veins.

Following the procedure, a small bandage is placed over the insertion site; additional compression may be provided to aid healing. Your physician may encourage you to walk, however, to refrain from extended standing and strenuous activity for a period of time. Patients who undergo the Closure procedure typically resume normal activity within a day.

Benefits of the Procedure

• Relief of symptoms
• Outpatient setting
• Local anesthesia
• Resume normal activities within 1-2 days
• Good cosmetic outcome with minimal or no scarring, bruising, or swelling.

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Vein Clinic  •  (402) 328-3811