Varithena

What is Varithena and explain how does it work?

Varithena is known generically as (polidocanol) and is an injectable foam. Varithena 1% is a microfoam that is used to treat the symptoms of superficial venous reflux disease, and likewise help remove the appearance of varicose veins.

This specialized microfoam is administered by the doctor into the vein under ultrasound guidance. It then displaces blood within the vein that is not working properly and causes the vein to collapse.

This then prevents the leg venous reflux, as is the only FDA approved foam to non-surgically treat vein disease and reduce the signs of varicose veins.

Varicose veins are swollen, enlarged, bulging veins often appearing blue or dark purple. New technologies have produced a revolution in primary varicose vein treatments. Harvard Trained vein specialists at VIP Centers are leaders in treating unsightly and sometimes painful varicose and spider veins. We offer minimally invasive therapies that help to provide tremendous relief if from painful and enlarged veins causing the problems.

What is Varithena?

Varithena (polidocanol injectable foam) is a prescription medicine used to treat varicose veins caused by problems with the great saphenous vein (GSV) and other related veins in the leg’s GSV system. Varithena not only improves the symptoms related to or caused by varicose veins, but also the appearance of varicose veins. Varithena is administered by the doctor into the malfunctioning veins. The minimally invasive, nonsurgical treatment doesn’t require incisions. The doctor usually numbs the injection site, but no additional anesthesia is required.

What results might I expect with Varithena?

Clinical Trials have shown that Varithena reduces patients varicose vein symptoms such as:

heaviness, swelling, achiness, throbbing, skin irritation and itching. According to the clinical data Varithena also improved vein appearance in assessments by both patients and doctors.

How does Varithena work?

Varithena is administered into your malfunctioning vein through a small catheter or by direct injection. It allows the foam fills the desired section of the vein. Once diseased vein collapses, foam is deactivated and blood flow shifts to healthier veins nearby.

How long does treatment take?

Varithena treatment is the same day clinical procedure that usually takes less than an hour. Once Varithena is administered patients can go home the same day.

Are there side effects to treatment with Varithena?

There are several most common side effects seen with Varithena, including:

leg pain or discomfort that typically goes away within one week

bruising, swelling at the injection site

Skin discolouration such as brown staining of the skin where the vein has been treated

skin irritation, including rash, itching and/or red patches of skin; muscle spasms; and sore joints

Varithena can cause blood clots in the deep veins. When it happens your doctor will monitor you for signs of deep vein thrombosis, typically pain, swelling and blueness of the treated leg. If these symptoms develop after your treatment, contact your doctor immediatelyVery rarely, Varithena causes a life-threatening allergic reaction, however always inform your doctor about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

What Types of Veins can be Treated with Varithena?

Varithena may treats a wide range of varicose veins in the great saphenous vein (GSV) system, including:

Tortuous (twisted) veins

Veins above and below the knee

Veins with small, medium, and large diameters

Veins previously treated with other methods

How many treatments might I need?

Some patients may see results with as little as single treatment. Additional treatment may be required, depending on the number and size of the varicose veins. Treatments are typically separated by a minimum of 5 days.

How soon can I get back to normal activities?

It is very important to understand and follow your doctor’s post-treatment care recommendations and instructions:

you may resume somelight activities the same day as your treatments

avoid heavy activities and workouts immediately after your procedure

keep walking at least 10 – 30 minutes a day and for entire month after the procedure

avoid long periods of inactivity

continue to keep your post-treatment bandages dry and in place for 48 hours and to wear compression stockings on your treated leg for 2 weeks

How long do I have to wear my compression stockings after the procedure?

Post-treatment compression is required for the first 48 hours followed by a 2-week course of gradient compression stockings. Once your compression is applied post-procedure, your doctor will be ask you to walk for at least 10 minutes under his supervision. You should continue to walk at least 30 minutes daily and avoid long periods of inactivity and any weight-lifting activities for the next month. No heavy exercise is recommended during the first week after treatment.

Is Varithena covered by my insurance ?

Your doctor’s office will help you to understand your coverage and contact your insurance provider to determine if you are eligible for treatment. Coverage may depend on the severity of your varicose veins and your symptoms.

To determine if Varithena is the right treatment for you, set up a consultation with one of Harvard Trained Vein Specialists at VIP Centers. We will obtain and go over your medical history, perform a physical and duplex ultrasound of your veins and ask you some questions. If your varicose veins are severe, your insurance provider may cover this treatment. Our staff will contact your insurer to inquire about coverage for you. Based upon your initial evaluation and exam, we will discuss your conditions and treatments option and how they best fit for your individual needs.

Learn more from the manufacturer, BTG Biocompatibles, Inc.