By: Louisiana Heart & Vascular Institute Vein Care Centers
Varicose veins are more than a cosmetic concern. For many people, they cause aching, swelling, heaviness, cramping, and fatigue in the legs that can interfere with daily activities and overall quality of life. Fortunately, advances in vascular medicine have made treatment safer, more effective, and less invasive than ever before.
At Louisiana Heart & Vascular Institute Vein Care Centers, we offer Varithena®, an FDA-approved, minimally invasive treatment designed to close diseased veins and improve circulation — without surgery or lengthy downtime. Understanding how Varithena® works can help patients make informed decisions about their vein health.
“Every staff member treats me like I am the most important patient they have. The ladies that did my procedure took time to make me feel comfortable and explained everything well. “
Louisiana Heart & Vascular Institute Vein Care Centers Patient Review
What Is Varithena®?
Varithena® is a prescription microfoam treatment used to treat varicose veins caused by chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). CVI occurs when valves inside the veins — most commonly the great saphenous vein and its branches — stop working properly, allowing blood to pool in the legs instead of flowing efficiently back to the heart.
Varithena® is made from polidocanol, a medication that has been safely used for years in vein treatments. What makes Varithena® unique is its proprietary foam formulation, which allows it to:
- Fill the diseased vein evenly
- Displace blood within the vein
- Stay in contact with the vein walls longer
This enables more effective closure of the problem vein while preserving healthy circulation through nearby veins.
How Varithena® Works
During a Varithena® procedure:
- The provider uses ultrasound guidance to identify the diseased vein.
- Varithena® microfoam is injected directly into the vein through a small needle.
- The foam irritates the vein lining, causing it to collapse and seal shut.
- Over time, the body naturally reroutes blood to healthier veins, and the treated vein is absorbed.
Because the procedure is guided by ultrasound, it is highly precise and targeted, minimizing impact on surrounding tissue.
Conditions Treated with Varithena®
Varithena® is commonly used to treat:
- Varicose veins caused by great saphenous vein reflux
- Branch varicose veins
- Symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency, including:
- Leg pain or aching
- Swelling
- Heaviness or fatigue
- Cramping or restlessness
- Skin discoloration or irritation
- Leg pain or aching
It can also be an excellent option for patients who may not be ideal candidates for thermal ablation or who have complex vein anatomy.
What to Expect During the Procedure
One of the biggest advantages of Varithena® is its convenience and comfort.
Procedure details:
- Performed in an outpatient setting
- No general anesthesia required
- Typically completed in 30–45 minutes
- Minimal discomfort — most patients feel only mild pressure
After the procedure, compression stockings are usually recommended for a short period to support healing and optimize results.
Most patients are able to return to normal activities the same day or the next day, making Varithena® an appealing option for those with busy schedules.
Benefits of Varithena® Treatment
Varithena® offers several advantages over traditional surgical vein treatments:
- Minimally invasive: No incisions or stitches
- No heat or lasers: Reduces risk of thermal injury
- Targeted treatment: Treats both main veins and branching veins in one session
- Little to no downtime: Resume daily activities quickly
- Proven effectiveness: Clinical studies show significant symptom improvement
Patients often report relief from leg pain, swelling, and heaviness within weeks of treatment.
Is Varithena® Right for You?
Varithena® may be a good option if you:
- Have symptomatic varicose veins
- Have been diagnosed with venous reflux
- Experience leg discomfort that worsens with standing or walking
- Want a non-surgical treatment option
- Have not found relief with compression stockings alone
However, not all vein conditions are the same. A comprehensive venous evaluation, including ultrasound imaging, is essential to determine the most effective treatment plan.
At Louisiana Heart & Vascular Institute Vein Care Centers, our specialists perform thorough assessments to identify the root cause of vein symptoms and recommend individualized treatment options — which may include Varithena® alone or in combination with other therapies.
Safety and Recovery
Varithena® is FDA-approved and has a strong safety profile when administered by trained vascular specialists. As with any medical procedure, side effects are possible but typically mild and temporary.
Common post-procedure effects may include:
- Mild bruising or tenderness
- Temporary swelling
- Firmness along the treated vein
Walking is encouraged after treatment to promote healthy circulation, and follow-up visits ensure proper healing and successful vein closure.
Why Treat Varicose Veins Early?
Ignoring varicose veins can allow venous disease to progress, potentially leading to:
- Worsening pain and swelling
- Skin changes or discoloration
- Venous ulcers
- Increased risk of blood clots
Early intervention can prevent complications and significantly improve comfort, mobility, and quality of life.
“Every one was so nice and professional. The procedure room and recovery room was so nice too. Dr Aduli performed my venogram and the staff that helped him did a great job. My veins in my legs are feeling so much better. I am very satisfied with everything. “
Louisiana Heart & Vascular Institute Vein Care Centers Patient Review
Expert Vein Care You Can Trust
At Louisiana Heart & Vascular Institute Vein Care Centers, we combine advanced technology with compassionate, patient-centered care. Our experienced vascular specialists use evidence-based treatments like Varithena® to address vein disease safely and effectively.
If you’re experiencing leg pain, swelling, or visible varicose veins, you don’t have to live with discomfort.
Schedule a consultation today to learn whether Varithena® is right for you and take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable legs.