| The Closure procedure is a minimally
invasive treatment for a condition known as superficial venous reflux,
which can cause pain, swelling and varicose veins in your legs. The
condition develops when the valves that usually keep blood flowing out
of your legs become damaged or diseased.
Since valves can't be repaired, the only alternative
is to re-route blood flow through healthy veins. Traditionally, this
has been done by surgically removing (stripping) the troublesome vein
from your leg. Closure provides a less-invasive alternative to vein
stripping by closing the problem vein instead.
Closure is performed in doctors' offices, surgical
centers and hospitals as an outpatient (day surgery) procedure. Local
or regional anesthesia is used to numb the treatment area. A thin
catheter is then inserted into the vein through a small opening. The
catheter delivers radiofrequency (RF) energy to the vein wall, causing
it to heat, collapse, and seal shut.
Once the diseased vein is closed, other healthy
veins take over and empty blood from your legs. Your symptoms should
also improve noticeably following the procedure.
After the catheter is removed, a bandage is placed
over the insertion site and your leg may be wrapped for a day to aid
healing. Your doctor may also ask you to walk, wear compression
stockings and to refrain from long periods of standing for a few weeks
following the procedure to help speed your recovery. Most patients can
resume normal activity immediately.
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