Yes, we can glue your veins shut!
The safety is well established as it has been used in abnormal blood vessels in the brain for quite a while. However, initially, it was so expensive that it was not used in varicose veins. At present treatment with glue costs the same as with laser and is also funded by most of insurance companies.*
Currently, there are around 1 million patients treated with Venaseal a year worldwide.
Please have a look at the animation explaining the idea of the procedure under the link below.
The advantages are:
1. Only one tiny prick of local anaesthetic – the method perfect for patients with needle-phobia!
2. No discomfort during the procedure
3. Often no stocking required (depending on anatomy) – perfect during a hot summer!
4. Safe
5. Recovery quick and hardly any discomfort or awareness
Disadvantages:
1. Some early experience published in the medical literature suggests large veins do not have a good result so we use the EVLA method for veins bigger than 8mm.
2. There were single cases worldwide of atypical reaction to the glue which resulted in formation of granuloma – palpable nodule which eventually had to be cut out under local anaesthesia. Therefore the method is contraindicated in patients with multiple allergic diseases or autoimmune conditions.
3. Every bio-material can induce allergic reaction. Cyanoacrylic glue is not an exemption. Allergic reaction can vary – from small localised redness to diffuse redness, swelling and even a rash. Fortunately it is rarely dangerous and settles down after few days of using anti-inflammatory medications and anti-histamines.
The specific risk and potential side effects of the procedure will be discussed with you by your doctor during the an initial consult.
*please refer to your insurance policy