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Carle Heart and Vascular Institute

611 W. Park Street
Urbana, IL
(217) 882-6055

SERVICES

Varithena

As a great saphenous vein system treatment, Varithena is a FDA-approved, foam-based alternative to some of the top-tier solutions currently on the market.  It is non-surgical and works to improve the symptoms caused by varicose veins, as well as minimize their appearance.  

What Does Varithena Consist of and How Does it Work?

Varithena is composed of polidoconol, a local anesthetic that is used as a sclerosant (varicose vein irritant treatment). It is administered via an injection (a catheter is used in some cases) straight into the GSV system and takes no more than an hour for a physician to complete. The microfoam then fills the vein and subsequently collapses the affected vein. As a result, blood flow transfers to adjacent veins, establishing healthier circulation.  

What Are the Side Effects?

While minimal, the most common side effects of Varithena include leg pain, injection site pain and, in rare cases, serious blood clots. If you are susceptible to blood clots or currently have them, you should consider alternatives. Because of the nature of the procedure, you should not engage in any heavy activity for a week following treatment.  

Types of Veins Varithena Treats

Being a foam-based inoculation, and also being the only FDA-approved treatment of its kind, it does not involve any incisions or targeted thermal applications.  It is direct and covers the affected regions of the GSV system quickly and effectively.
Here are some of the types of varicose veins it is most effective on:
  • Tortuous (twisted) veins
  • Veins above and below the knee
  • Veins with small, medium, and large diameters
  • Veins previously treated with other methods  

For more information regarding foam scleropathy, click here
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Carle Heart and Vascular Institute

611 W. Park Street
Urbana, IL
(217) 882-6055