Minimally Invasive Solution for Varicose Veins
Nearly 25 million Americans have varicose veins. Caused by venous reflux disease, varicose veins can become so painful that those who have standing professions can no longer tolerate being on their feet all day.
Help is available for varicose veins at the Vein Clinic at Northwest Hospital.
Venous Reflux Disease
The valves in the saphenous vein are damaged and the veins near the skin surface are stretched and distorted from the increased pressure caused by blood flowing in the wrong direction. Venous reflux is often the cause of varicose veins. Although the condition is rarely life threatening, it is often painful and unattractive. Symptoms will worsen over time if left untreated.
Symptoms may include:
Some causes of varicose veins:
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Family history
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Multiple pregnancies
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Prolonged standing
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Excess weight
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Age
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Gender
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Inadequate exercise
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Damaged saphenous veins
Venous reflux develops when the valves that usually keep blood flowing out of your legs become damaged or diseased. The main treatment alternative is to reroute the blood flow through healthy veins. Traditionally this has been performed by surgically removing (stripping) the troublesome vein from the leg. Closure® provides a less invasive alternative to vein stripping by closing the diseased vein instead.
The VNUS® Closure® Procedure
Performed on an outpatient basis at the Vein Clinic at Northwest Hospital, the Closure® technology uses a very small catheter and radio frequency energy to seal shut the saphenous vein. Using ultrasound, the physician typically makes a small needle puncture near the knee and inserts the slender Closure® catheter into the saphenous vein. The catheter is positioned near the groin, energized and slowly withdrawn, sealing the vein shut and rerouting blood to other healthy veins. There are no stitches, and most patients return to normal activity within a day.
The Closure® procedure is covered by most insurance plans.
The Facility
Northwest Hosital physicians and medical team provide the highest standards of patient care and surgical excellence. Procedures performed combine the clinical and surgical expertise of the surgeon, along with the professional attitude and compassion of the highly skilled health care team.
To Make Your Visit Go More Smoothly
When you visit the Vein Clinic:
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Make a list of any allergies and any medicine you're currently taking
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Bring your medical records and insurance forms
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If you have diabetes, bring snack food and medication with you
To begin your program of care, call the Northwest Hospital Vein Clinic at 410-601-WELL (9355).
Northwest Hospital
5401 Old Court Road
Randallstown, MD 21133
410-601-WELL (9355)
TTY: 410-521-2531