Varithena®

Varithena®­ is an injectable foam used in treating the appearance of superficial veins. It is a nonsurgical, minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins. FDA approved and covered by most major insurances, Varithena® (polidocanol) could be your key to pain relief caused by vein disease. The Vein Centre offers Varithena® at our Franklin, Nashville, and Mount Juliet locations. Set up a consultation to find out how the Varithena® vein treatment can heal your varicose veins today.

• Treats the Greater Saphenous Vein (GSV)
• Treats varicose veins above and below the knee
• Treats small to large veins
• Treats previously treated veins

Varithena® is minimally invasive, which means there is no surgical treatment required. Instead, Varithena® requires only a few injections with a needle.

As a form of sclerotherapy, this treatment for varicose veins is done in-office via a small injection. Varithena® is an injectable foam used to displace blood and destroy the endothelial lining of veins. Here is what to expect during your Varithena® session:

• For comfort of the patient, the treatment site may be numbed prior to the administration of Varithena®.
• The doctor may use a small catheter to administer Varithena® depending on the diseased vein.
• Once injected, the foam fills a section of the diseased vein and causes the vein to collapse.
• As the vein disappears, the body sends the blood flow through nearby healthier veins.

Most patients are satisfied with their results after one treatment session. Depending on the patient’s needs, follow-up treatment sessions can be scheduled.

Depending on the number and size of veins being treated, it is possible to have only one treatment, but more may be needed.

Because Varithena® is a minimally invasive treatment, normal activities can be resumed immediately. Patients should avoid heavy activity for at least one week. Patients are also required to wear compression stockings for at least two weeks. It is also encouraged that patients walk regularly for at least one month after treatment in order to promote healthy circulation.

The most commonly reported side effect is pain in the treated leg. If a patient experiences pain, it usually resolves within one week. Additional side effects from a Varithena® treatment can include:

• Injection site reaction
• Swelling
• Nerve injury

Patients may also experience bruising at the treatment site. Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can be taken for pain relief after treatment. In rare cases, blood clots may form. Talk with your vein doctor if you are worried about a blood clot or other persisting side effects.

Knowing if you are an ideal candidate for a Varithena® treatment will be based on a few factors such as:

• A comprehensive assessment and visit with your provider to review your previous and current medical history
• Imaging test such as an duplex ultrasound to determine blood flow levels in the veins
• You have large, protruding, painful veins
• Swelling or heaviness in legs from veins

Again, a doctor will be able to determine if Varithena® is the right treatment for your varicose veins, and, if not, will be able to provide alternative treatments to provide relief and comfort.