VEIN TREATMENTS
Varithena
What is Varithena?
Varithena (polidocanol injectable foam) is an FDA-approved prescription medicine used to treat varicose veins caused by problems with the great saphenous vein and other related leg veins. Varithena improves symptoms related to or caused by varicose veins, and the appearance of varicose veins.
How does Varithena work?
- The physician administers a small amount of Varithena foam through a small needle that is inserted into the treated vein, usually using ultrasound guidance.
- The microfoam fills and treats the desired section of the vein.
- The diseased vein collapses and the foam is diluted and dissolved in the bloodstream and flushed out.
How is blood flow affected?
When the malfunctioning vein collapses, blood flow shifts to healthier veins nearby.
What is treatment like?
Treatment with Varithena is minimally invasive and nonsurgical (no incisions required). Other kinds of varicose vein therapies may require many needle sticks. But with Varithena, treatment is usually just one or two needle sticks and is nearly painless.
How fast is the treatment?
It usually takes less than 30 minutes to get the treatment. After treatment, the veins can become firm (small “knots” under the skin) which slowly become softer and finally go away over the following few weeks.
How soon can I get back to my normal activities?
Most people may resume normal activities the same day as treatment. You should avoid heavy exercise for one week. Keep post-treatment bandages and the compression stocking in place for 48 hours, and wear compression stockings on the treated leg for a week. For a month, you should walk at least 10 minutes a day and avoid long stretches of inactivity.
How many treatments might I need?
Most people only need a single treatment. Additional treatment may be needed, depending on the number and size of veins being treated.
Will my insurance cover treatment?
Varithena is covered by most Medicare and insurance plans. Coverage may depend on the severity of your varicose veins and symptoms. Your physician’s office may be able to help you understand your coverage.
Is Varithena effective?
In clinical studies, the majority of patients treated with Varithena experienced improvements in symptoms: heaviness, achiness, swelling, throbbing and itching after just one treatment. The clinical studies also found that the majority of patients experienced improvement in vein appearance in assessments by both patients and physicians.
What should I tell my physician?
Tell your physician about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
- Have arterial disease (a disease of the blood vessels)
- Have reduced mobility
- Have a history of blood clots in the veins or lungs
- Have had major surgery in the past three months
- Have recently had a long hospital stay
- Are pregnant or have recently been pregnant