Glue Ablation of Varicose Veins
This technique is used for patients where the varicose veins are being fed by a large, relatively straight superficial vein (such as the great or small saphenous vein). The glue is used for the “feeding vein”. The varicose veins are closed by injections done at the same time.
The Procedure
The vein is entered using a needle with local anaesthetic. A wire is then passed into the vein and a tube (called a sheath) is passed over the wire and the top of the sheath positioned just below the main valve in the groin. There is no need to make the vein numb (unlike radiofrequency or laser). The fine glue catheter is then threaded into the sheath and the tip is positioned at the point where the vein needs to be closed. This is done using ultrasound. The glue is delivered from a syringe while the vein is compressed closed. This is confirmed on the ultrasound. Once the top is closed, the glue is used to close the full length of the vein in a series of steps where the catheter is pulled back until the whole of the vein is closed. The varicose veins are then closed by sclerotherapy. This takes approximately 60 minutes.
After the Procedure?
- A full length compression stocking will be fitted
- It can be taken off at night especially if you have any pain
- Wear this for 1 week
- You will rest for 30 minutes with the leg up on a couch
- 45 minutes of walking each day for 1 week
- Followup duplex ultrasound test before followup
- Review by AVC doctor in approximately 2 weeks
Expectations and Complications?
EXPECT
- Hard lumps where the varicose veins used to be
- \May get “pulling” on the inside of the thigh
- Some aching
- Bruising
COMPLICATIONS
- Pigmentation
- Phlebitis
- Deep venous thrombosis
- Swelling of the leg
- Skin ulcers
- Numbness in patches. Sometimes on the inside or outside of the foot
- Allergic reactions including anaphylaxis (very rare)
Download an information sheet here