Varithena

*Currently, as of 11/22/24, Medicare and Aetna are the only two insurances in-network for varithena treatment

What is varithena?

Varithena is a medical treatment used to address varicose veins and venous insufficiency. It involves the use of a foam sclerosant, which is injected into the affected veins. The foam works by irritating the inner lining of the vein, causing it to close off and eventually be reabsorbed by the body. This minimally invasive procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting and does not require general anesthesia. Patients may experience reduced symptoms, such as pain and swelling, and improved appearance of their legs following treatment. Varithena is known for its effectiveness and lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgical methods.

How do you prepare for varithena?

1. Consultation: Schedule an initial consultation with your healthcare provider to discuss your medical history, symptoms, and treatment goals. This will help determine if Varithena is the right option for you.
2. Pre-Treatment Instructions: Follow any specific instructions given by your doctor. This may include avoiding certain medications (such as blood thinners) or supplements prior to the procedure to minimize bleeding risks.
3. Wear Comfortable Clothing: On the day of your treatment, wear loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to your legs. Avoid wearing tight pants or stockings.
4. Hydration: Stay well-hydrated before the procedure, as it can help improve circulation and make the treatment more effective.
5. Post-Treatment Plan: Discuss your post-treatment care with your provider, including recommendations for activity levels, compression stockings, and follow-up appointments.

Following these preparation steps can help ensure a smoother Varithena treatment experience and promote optimal recovery.

Why is varithena performed?

Varithena is performed primarily to treat varicose veins and venous insufficiency, conditions that can lead to various symptoms and complications. Here are the key reasons for its use:

• Symptom Relief: Patients with varicose veins often experience discomfort, pain, swelling, and heaviness in the legs. Varithena helps alleviate these symptoms by closing off the affected veins, improving blood flow and reducing associated discomfort.
• Improved Appearance: Varicose veins can be unsightly, leading many individuals to seek treatment for cosmetic reasons. Varithena effectively reduces the visibility of these veins, enhancing the aesthetic appearance of the legs.
• Preventing Complications: Untreated venous insufficiency can lead to more serious issues, such as blood clots, skin ulcers, or bleeding. By addressing the underlying problems with Varithena, patients can reduce the risk of these complications.
• Minimally Invasive Solution: Varithena is a less invasive alternative to traditional surgical options. It requires no general anesthesia and involves minimal downtime, allowing patients to return to their daily activities quickly.
• Effective Treatment Option: The procedure has a high success rate in effectively closing varicose veins and providing long-term relief from symptoms, making it a preferred choice for many patients suffering from venous disorders.

Overall, Varithena is performed to enhance both the physical and emotional well-being of patients suffering from varicose veins and venous insufficiency.

What can you expect during varithena?

During a Varithena treatment session, patients can expect the following:

1. Comfort and Anesthesia: Varithena is typically performed in an outpatient setting. Local anesthesia is often used to numb the treatment area, ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure. Sedation may be offered for added relaxation, but general anesthesia is not required.
2. Foam Injection: The healthcare provider will inject the Varithena foam directly into the affected veins using a thin needle. The foam will fill the vein, causing it to collapse and eventually close off. The injection process usually takes about 30 minutes, depending on the number of veins being treated.
3. Monitoring: After the injections, your provider may monitor you for a short period to ensure you do not experience any immediate adverse reactions.
4. Post-Procedure Instructions: Once the procedure is complete, you’ll receive instructions on post-treatment care, which may include wearing compression bandages or stockings, avoiding strenuous activities, and scheduling follow-up appointments.
5. Discharge: Patients go home the same day after the procedure, and most can resume normal activities shortly after, though some may experience mild swelling or discomfort in the treated area.

What is the followup and recovery like for varithena?

Recovery from Varithena treatment is typically quick. After the procedure, you’ll receive instructions to wear compression stockings for at least a week to enhance circulation and reduce swelling. Light walking is encouraged, while strenuous activities should be avoided.

Mild swelling, bruising, or discomfort is common and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Follow-up appointments are usually scheduled within a few weeks to monitor your progress. Most patients see significant improvement in symptoms and appearance within weeks, with optimal results achieved in a few months. Overall, the recovery process is efficient and aims for the best possible outcomes.

What are the potential risks of varithena?

While Varithena is generally safe, it may pose some risks and complications. Common side effects include temporary bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort or burning at the injection site. Patients might also experience skin discoloration. Rare but serious risks include allergic reactions to the sclerosant, inflammation of the vein (thrombophlebitis), and the possibility of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can lead to serious complications. It’s important to discuss these potential risks with your healthcare provider to evaluate the benefits in light of your individual health circumstances.

Are there related tests or diagnostics to varithena?

Before undergoing Varithena treatment, several tests and diagnostics may be performed, including:

• Ultrasound Imaging: This non-invasive test provides detailed images of the veins, helping to identify areas of venous insufficiency or varicosities and evaluate blood flow.
• Physical Examination: A thorough examination of your symptoms and medical history to form a comprehensive treatment plan.

These diagnostic evaluations are essential for ensuring that Varithena is the right treatment option for your specific situation and optimizing the procedure’s effectiveness.