Vein Closure By Laser

For those who suffer from varicose or spider veins, vein closure by laser (marketed under names such as VNUS closure) may offer an effective method for reducing the unsightly appearance and discomfort associated with these kinds of venuous issues.

My Dad had very bad varicose veins when I was a child, and he underwent a procedure called vein stripping, where, literally, the offending veins were removed from his legs. Now this was about 30 years ago, and medical technology has come a long way. For my Dad, the surgery was an inpatient procedure, marked by significant pain and noticeable recovery time. He still needs to wear compression hose, years after the surgery, to keep his veins pumping normally.

It would have been great if vein laser treatment was available then. Anyway, in the current state of vein closure by laser, the process goes like this:

A thin laser filament is inserted into the weak veins and heated from the inside. This causes the veins to close off, virtually eliminating their physical and cosmetic defects.

Reportedly, 98% of patients who have undergone vein closure would recommend it to others.

It is an outpatient procedure and involves the use of local anesthetic, so it is safer than other kinds of procedures which might necessitate general anesthesia and/or an overnight hospital stay.

If you are troubled by varicose or spider veins, consider talking to your doctor about vein closure by laser.