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Venefit™ Targeted Endovenous Therapy (previously called VNUS closure procedure) is a clinically proven, minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure that treats varicose veins on an outpatient basis with minimal discomfort. The Venefit™ procedure is described as endovenous because a varicose vein is thermally ablated from within the vein. Thermal ablation of a vein with Venefit™ has been achieved by means of a catheter equipped with a radiofrequency (RF) generating electrode. It is for this reason that the procedure is also known as Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA).
The closure fast catheter is attached to the VNUS radiofrequency generator.
Nu Vela Laser and Vein Center has been one of the first Vein Centers in the San Fernando Valley region of Southern California to introduce the Venefit™ Targeted Endovenous Therapy for varicose vein treatment in Los Angeles. Currently, the system is one of the two FDA-approved endovenous modalities for the comprehensive treatment of varicose veins; the other being Endovenous Varicose Veins Laser Treatment (EVLT).
VARICOSE VEINS AFTER SAPHENOUS VEIN CLOSURE
*Individual results may vary.
Nowadays, vein surgeons use endovenous thermal ablation, Venefit, or EVLT, when leg vein Ultrasound mapping indicates the presence of incompetent saphenous and perforator veins. Incompetence in the veins usually results from the improper functioning of vein valves, allowing blood to pool in the very superficial leg veins. The condition is known as venous reflux.
Once the problematic saphenous/perforator veins are closed under the influence of the heat delivered by the electrode of the Venefit™ system, the blood flow in the deep veins reverts to its normal pattern towards the heart. As a consequence, branch varicosities; that is, large and very superficial veins that are most obvious to the patient, adjust back to normal pressure conditions, and within a few weeks, patients notice dramatic visible improvement in the appearance of their legs. Some of the residual veins may need additional treatments, such as micro phlebectomy (ambulatory phlebectomy), foam sclerotherapy (for branch varicosities), or sclerotherapy (for reticular and spider veins). The closure of incompetent saphenous and perforator veins is of crucial importance in varicose vein treatment for preventing the recurrence of the condition.
At present, the RFA catheters supplied by Venefit come in two sizes: a large catheter, 7 cm long (Covidien Closure Fast™ Catheter) intended for the ablation of the Greater saphenous vein, and a small catheter, ClosureRFS™ stylet, 3 cm long, which can be used for the ablation of the smaller saphenous vein, tributary veins, and perforator veins.
During a varicose vein treatment session, a phlebologist (vein doctor) uses duplex ultrasound guidance to locate the trouble-causing vein. The doctor then accurately positions the Venefit™ Radiofrequency (RF) catheter into the diseased vein through a small tube he/she has inserted into the vein through a tiny incision.
The tissues surrounding the targeted vein are protected from the heat generated by the catheter by the large amount of a numbing solution that the doctor injects around the vein. As the RF energy is delivered to a vein and the catheter is withdrawn, the heat applied shrinks the vein, leading to its permanent closure.
The treated leg is then wrapped, and compression stockings are applied in the doctor’s office. Although patients are able to walk immediately, and usually return to normal activity the next day, they are advised to arrange for transportation back home as the treated leg may be partially numb.
The ultrasound imaging machine.
In the weeks that follow the procedure, Dr. Dishakjian, the phlebologist (vein doctor) of the center, will monitor the progress of patient recovery, and accordingly recommend an appropriate procedure to eliminate any residual veins to achieve the best cosmetic outcome with the least discomfort.
Please go to varicose veins – FAQ for answers to a host of questions related to endovenous thermal ablation.
VENEFIT (VNUS) PROCEDURE AT NU VELA
Recent studies have indicated that there is a clear correlation between having incompetent perforator veins (short communicating veins between the superficial and deep vein systems along the leg) and the recurrence of varicose veins. Accordingly, when incompetent perforator veins are present, ablation of the large superficial saphenous veins with the VNUS Closure FAST™ catheter alone may only partially correct venous insufficiency, requiring the treatment of the incompetent perforating veins for an optimal outcome.
To this end, VNUS™ Medical Technologies has extended the Closure procedure and introduced the VNUS ClosureRFS™ stylet. The ClosureRFS™ stylet with its smaller catheter is intended to treat several other smaller veins, including anatomically suitable refluxing perforator veins.
Until recently, the VNUS ClosureRFS™ stylet (re-named Venefit ClosureRFS™ stylet) was the only FDA-cleared endovenous ablation device for the treatment of incompetent perforating veins.
Note that refluxing perforator veins are the most common origin of venous stasis ulcers that occur despite the successful closure of saphenous veins. These ulcers commonly occur along the inner aspect of the leg around the ankle and poorly respond to conventional treatments with antibiotics, wound care, and compression therapy.
Dr. Dishakjian, the phlebologist at the Vein Clinic, will use Duplex Ultrasound imaging to detect the presence of any refluxing perforator veins and accordingly suggest a treatment plan. Perforator vein treatment with the ClosureRFS™ stylet is an outpatient procedure, which can be either the primary treatment or can be performed in addition to the saphenous vein ablation with the Venefit™ catheter.
“I chose Dr Dishakjian to remove my spider veins because of his knowledge and understanding of the complexity of the veins, arteries and capillaries. My legs look absolutely amazing after spider vein removal because of Dr Dishakjian’s artistic approach. In addition, I am pleased to mention the absence of any scarring. I have the confidence now to wear my shorts, skirts and dresses. It is a wonderful feeling. I know how blessed and fortunate I am to have found Dr Dishakjian and his great staff. Again, thank you.
Thank you,”
by Anna L.
Instructions for preparing yourself for Venefit™ Targeted Endovenous Therapy of varicose veins and aftercare are essentially the same as those recommended for Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT). Please click EVLT & Venefit FAQ for answers to questions you may have about these procedures, or go to varicose veins- FAQ to find answers related to varicose veins and their treatment.
VNUS CLOSURE STYLET TREATING PERFORATOR VEINS
Among minimally invasive varicose vein treatment procedures, the Venefit™ procedure has one of the broadest and most complete insurance coverage available. Eligibility of reimbursement is based on established medical necessity as defined by the presence of symptomatic venous reflux non-responsive to conservative treatment methods. Moreover, at our vein center, three-quarters of what you pay for the diagnostic Ultrasound test is reimbursed as payment for varicose vein treatment. At Nu Vela Laser and Vein Center we do offer financing options through CareCredit to help make the payment process more manageable for our patients.
During your consultation with Dr. Dishakjian, he can answer any questions you have about the cost of Venefit in Los Angeles and let you know about the payment options and financing options we offer.
If you are looking for a safe and effective way to treat your varicose veins, contact Nu Vela Laser and Vein Center today to schedule a consultation for your Venefit treatment in Los Angeles. Dr. Raffi Dishakjian is a dedicated varicose vein doctor who specializes in non-surgical minimally invasive vein treatments. he can provide you with the expert medical care you are in need of.
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