VenaSeal Closure System

There are a number of minimally invasive procedures used to treat varicose veins; one of the most effective being the VenaSeal closure system. Created by Medtronic, the VenaSeal closure system uses a specially formulated,  FDA-approved medical-grade adhesive to actually block off the damaged vein while relieving pain and discomfort caused by varicose veins.  

For years medical professionals relied on standard procedures like endovenous laser ablation (EVLT) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to treat varicose veins; however, as science and medical technology continues to advance, so have the options for treating the varicose vein symptoms that contribute to swelling, pain, and discomfort in the lower extremities.  In addition to EVLT and RFA, new and effective varicose vein treatment options now include using medical microfoam and medical superglue, like that found in the VenaSeal closure system.

VenaSeal Closure System

The VenaSeal closure system by Medtronic is the only U.S. approved minimally invasive varicose vein treatment option that does not use any heat (non-thermal), radio waves, or surgical procedures like vein stripping or phlebectomy to treat the underlying causes of varicose veins.

The VenaSeal Procedure 

When treating varicose veins, a typical VenaSeal closure system procedure takes between 30 and 60-minutes, is completed while under a local anesthetic to numb only the targeted area, and requires an ultrasound of the superficial leg prior to being recommended as the method of treatment.

During the procedure, a small catheter is inserted at various points of the vein. A syringe with the medical adhesive is connected to a special dispensing gun, which is then attached to the other end of the catheter.

Upon injection, the adhesive seals off the damaged vein by using a nBCA-based adhesive glue to cause an endovascular embolization that stops blood flow at identified locations within the vein.  The medical adhesive begins to solidify and harden upon entry into the vein,  causing the walls of the affected vein to join together, effectively neutralizing the damaged varicose vein.

Once the VenaSeal closure system seal is in place, the blood is then forced to other, healthier veins, causing the  damaged vein to shrink and eventually disappear.  Upon completion of the VenaSeal closure system procedure, the catheter is removed and a small bandage will be placed over the targeted area.

Patients typically require less anesthesia and generally experience little bruising or discomfort after the procedure; most are able to resume normal daily activities the same day and without issue.

Venaseal Cost

Venaseal cost depends on the number of veins that need to be treated; in other words, it often depends on how many damaged veins are found in the legs.  The cost of Venaseal ranges from $1400 for Medicare and HMO insurance and $2100 for PPO insurance per vein treated. These costs will vary based on your deductible and out of pocket expenses owed. Find a vein doctor near your that treats varicose veins.