VASCULAR

We use the Venefit™ procedure (endovenous radiofrequency ablation) to treat larger veins, as recommended by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE). It is a minimally invasive and virtually painless procedure with less bruising compared to traditional vein stripping surgery or laser treatment. 

Using the Venefit™ system, our 

We use the Venefit™ procedure (endovenous radiofrequency ablation) to treat larger veins, as recommended by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE). It is a minimally invasive and virtually painless procedure with less bruising compared to traditional vein stripping surgery or laser treatment. 

Using the Venefit™ system, our surgeons close the diseased or damaged vein. This is done by inserting a catheter into a vein and using radio-frequency energy to induce collagen in the vein wall to shrink and close the vein. After the vein is sealed shut, blood naturally reroutes to healthy veins and the body dissolves the closed vein over time. The procedure is done at our specialist vein clinic, takes about 30-45 minute, and patients walk away. Most patients typically return to their normal activities within a day. We adhere to the highest quality and standards in vein care treatment and surgery and, for this reason we do not reprocess catheters or use reprocessed catheters like others do in some vein care practices, clinics, and institutes.

 How is it different to laser treatment?

Laser treatment (Endovenous Laser Therapy, EVLT) is similar to radiofrequency in that it closes the vein using heat (endothermal ablation). With radiofrequency ablation the machine will adjust the power it delivers to the inside of the vein to maintain a set temperature, whilst the laser machine will deliver a set power to the vein, irrespective of the temperature this will generate. As such, radiofrequency ablation has been shown to cause significantly less pain, bruising and complications when compared to laser therapy. The average patient typically resumes normal activities within a few days.

What will happen at my consultation?

You will see one of our Consultant Vascular Surgeons for an initial consultation. The surgeon will take your full medical history and he will then examine your legs. Following this you will undergo an ultrasound scan by a trained vascular sonographer with extensive experience in venous and arterial imaging to assess your deep venous system and of course your varicose veins. Upon completion of the ultrasound, you will see the Consultant Vascular Surgeon to discuss the results of the ultrasound and to plan an individual treatment strategy for you. The initial consultation, the initial ultrasound scan and a single follow up appointment (including follow up ultrasound scan) are all included in the price of the initial consultation.

What is the recovery process?

Immediately following the procedure and once your compression stocking is applied, you will be required to go for a brisk 15 minute walk and then twice daily for two weeks. Avoid hard physical activity (aerobics and weight lifting) for the first 48 hours. Following radiofrequency ablation, we advise that you arrange for someone to pick you up. You should be able to return to driving within 48 hours of treatment.

Can I fly before and after treatment?

If you are flying or having major surgery planned for within 6 weeks of your treatment, it is very important that you notify your doctor before the procedure. We recommend no flying 4 weeks prior to treatment and for 4 weeks after treatment.

 Foam sclerotherapy is used for longer, larger veins. Foams have a greater surface area than liquids, so a lower concentration covers more of the vein, causing faster shrinkage.  Ultrasound is used as a guide when treating larger veins with foam sclerotherapy. It allows the surgeon to find the exact location of the diseased vein to inject

 Foam sclerotherapy is used for longer, larger veins. Foams have a greater surface area than liquids, so a lower concentration covers more of the vein, causing faster shrinkage.  Ultrasound is used as a guide when treating larger veins with foam sclerotherapy. It allows the surgeon to find the exact location of the diseased vein to inject the foam.  Patients can resume most normal activities right away.  

 What will happen at my consultation?

You will see one of our Consultant Vascular Surgeons for an initial consultation. The surgeon will take your full medical history and he will then examine your legs. Following this you will undergo an ultrasound scan by a trained vascular sonographer with extensive experience in venous and arterial imaging to assess your deep venous system and of course your varicose veins. Upon completion of the ultrasound, you will see the Consultant Vascular Surgeon to discuss the results of the ultrasound and to plan an individual treatment strategy for you.  The initial consultation, the initial ultrasound scan and a single follow up appointment (including follow up ultrasound scan) are all included in the price of the initial consultation.

What is the recovery process?

Immediately following the procedure and once your compression stocking is applied, you will be required to go for a brisk 15 minute walk and then twice daily for two weeks.  Avoid hard physical activity (aerobics and weight lifting) for the first 48 hours. As long as you are not taking sedative painkillers you can drive straight away.  Following foam sclerotherapy, you are able to return to work almost immediately.

Can I fly before and after treatment?

If you are flying or having major surgery planned for within 6 weeks of your treatment, it is very important that you notify your doctor before the procedure. We recommend no flying 4 weeks prior to treatment and for 4 weeks after treatment.