Faulty vein valves allow blood
to flow with gravity down the vein towards the feet. The most
common site of venous reflux is the Great Saphenous Vein which
courses along the inside surface of the calf and thigh and
connects to the deep veins at the top of the leg. Greater and Less
Saphenous vein reflux is treated by the new non-surgical VNUS
Closure Procedure. The VNUS Closure Procedure is performed in our
office using local anesthesia guided by images on the duplex
ultrasound equipment.
The VNUS Closure procedure is a clinically
proven, minimally invasive procedure that treats varicose veins
and their underlying cause, venous reflux, without the trauma of
conventional vein stripping. Recovery is minimal with most
patients returning to work soon after the procedure. Support hose
are worn for about a week after the procedure and a vein
ultrasound is performed to assess the status of the veins 3 to 7
days after the procedure. Exercise is resumed within a few days of
the procedure. Pain medication is not required. The procedure is
performed in our office using local anesthesia. 98% of patients
who undergo the Closure procedure are willing to recommend it to
others.
The VNUS Closure catheter is a special device
which opens like an umbrella at its end. Once positioned in the
treatment vein the catheter is opened allowing the catheter tines
to touch the wall of the vein from inside the vein. Radiofrequency
energy is then transmitted from the VNUS Closure generator through
to the catheter tip, heating the vein wall and causing contraction
of the vein wall resulting in closing down of the vein as
diagrammed below.

The VNUS Closure procedure has little or no
discomfort associated with it. There is a high degree of success
with over 95% of veins being permanently closed.
Your Closure expert
Dr.
Paul Sasser is a Board
Certified Surgeon with over 15 years experience in the
treatment of vein disorders. Dr. Sasser is a regionally recognized
Closure expert and has performed over 400 VNUS Closure procedures.
In addition Dr. Sasser's practice serves as a preceptor and
training site for physicians assistants.
What Is My Next Step?
The
Low Country Diagnostic and Treatment Center
is equipped to perform your
complete vascular exam, including Doppler exam,
photoplythmsography and duplex ultrasound exam. All patients with
varicose veins will undergo a complete exam including ultrasound
to completely map your venous system and identify the problem
veins. At that point we will outline a treatment plan using VNUS
closure, sclerotherapy, or laser treatment tailored to your
specific problem. Please call or request on-line for your
consultation today and start enjoying your new healthier legs.