Do You Experience Discomfort, Swelling And Varicose Veins?  

If so, you may be suffering from superficial venous reflux disease. And these symptoms may not have to be a way of life.

Houston Northwest Medical Center proudly announces that we now offer the VNUS Closure® procedure, which is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia.

Physician Referral
For a physician referral call 281-580-0000.

Understanding Venous Reflux Disease
Healthy leg veins contain valves that open and close to assist the return of blood back to the heart. Venous reflux disease develops when the valves that keep blood flowing out of the legs and back to the heart become damaged or diseased. As a result, vein valves will not close properly, typically leading to symptoms that include:
• Varicose veins
• Pain
• Swollen limbs

Are You a Candidate?
Many factors contribute to the presence of venous reflux disease, including:
• Age
• Gender
• Family history
• Multiple pregnancies

Speak with your physician about determining your candidacy for the Closure procedure.

What is the VNUS Closure® Procedure?
The VNUS Closure procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis. Using ultrasound, your physician will position the Closure Catheter into the diseased vein, through a small opening in the skin. The tiny catheter delivers radiofrequency (RF) energy to the vein wall. As the RF energy is delivered and the catheter is withdrawn, the vein wall is heated causing the collagen in the wall to shrink and the vein to close. Once the diseased vein is closed, blood is re-routed to other healthy veins.

Following the procedure, a bandage is placed over the insertion site, and additional compression may be provided to aid healing. Your doctor may encourage you to walk, and to refrain from extended standing and strenuous activities for a period of time.

How Long Will I be in the Hospital for the VNUS Closure® Procedure?
This procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis using either a local or general anesthesia.

When Will I be Able to Resume Normal Activities?
Some patients who undergo VNUS Closure® may resume normal activities within a day. Physicians generally instruct their patients to walk regularly for several days after the procedure and return within 72 hours for an ultrasound examination. Physicians may prescribe compression stockings to be worn for several days or weeks after the procedure.

How Do I Know if I am a Candidate for the VNUS Closure® Procedure?
If you can answer yes to any of the questions below, you should speak with your physician to discuss the VNUS Closure® procedure.

1. Have you previously been diagnosed with Venous Reflux or Venous Insufficiency?

2. Do you have varicose veins? (Varicose veins are large, blue, bulging veins, as opposed to spider veins, which are small, thin veins that lay close to the skin surface.)

3. Do you experience any of the following symptoms in your legs, ankles or feet? 
    - Leg pain, aching or cramping 
    - Burning or itching of the skin 
    - Leg or ankle swelling 
    - “Heavy” feeling in legs 
    - Skin discolorations or texture changes 
    - Open wounds or sores

4. Has anyone in your blood-related family been diagnosed with varicose veins?

5. Has anyone in your blood-related family undergone vein stripping?

As with any medical intervention, potential risks and complications exist with the VNUS Closure procedure. You should consult your physician for more information.


©2007 VNUS Medical Technologies Inc.