Varithena
Varithena is a medical treatment designed to treat varicose veins and venous insufficiency.

What is varithena?
Varithena involves injecting a foam sclerosant into the affected veins. The foam irritates the vein’s inner lining, causing it to close and be gradually reabsorbed by the body. This minimally invasive procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis and does not require general anesthesia. After treatment, patients often experience reduced symptoms, such as pain and swelling, along with improved leg appearance. Varithena is known for being effective with a lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgical treatments.
How to Prepare for Varithena:
- Consultation: Schedule an initial consultation with your healthcare provider to review your medical history, symptoms, and treatment goals. This will help determine if Varithena is the right treatment for you.
- Pre-Treatment Instructions: Follow any specific instructions from your doctor, which may include avoiding certain medications (like blood thinners) or supplements before the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: On the day of your treatment, wear loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to your legs. Avoid tight pants or stockings.
- Hydration: Stay hydrated before the procedure, as this can enhance circulation and make the treatment more effective.
- Post-Treatment Plan: Discuss post-treatment care with your provider, including activity recommendations, the use of compression stockings, and any follow-up appointments.
By following these preparation steps, you can help ensure a smoother Varithena treatment and promote a faster recovery.
Why is Varithena Performed?
Varithena is primarily used to treat varicose veins and venous insufficiency, conditions that can cause a variety of symptoms and complications. Here are the main reasons for its use:
- Symptom Relief: Patients with varicose veins often experience discomfort, pain, swelling, and a feeling of heaviness in the legs. Varithena helps alleviate these symptoms by closing off the affected veins, improving blood circulation, and reducing discomfort.
- Improved Appearance: Varicose veins can be aesthetically unappealing, prompting many individuals to seek treatment for cosmetic reasons. Varithena effectively reduces the visibility of these veins, enhancing the appearance of the legs.
- Preventing Complications: Untreated venous insufficiency can lead to serious issues, such as blood clots, skin ulcers, or bleeding. By addressing the root causes with Varithena, patients can lower the risk of these complications.
- Minimally Invasive Treatment: Varithena offers a less invasive alternative to traditional surgery. It requires no general anesthesia and involves minimal downtime, allowing patients to quickly return to their daily routines.
- Effective Solution: The procedure has a high success rate in closing varicose veins and providing long-lasting relief from symptoms, making it a preferred option for many individuals with venous disorders.
What to Expect During Varithena:
- Comfort and Anesthesia: Varithena is typically performed in an outpatient setting, with local anesthesia used to numb the treatment area for your comfort. Sedation may also be offered for added relaxation, but general anesthesia is not necessary.
- Foam Injection: The healthcare provider will inject Varithena foam directly into the affected veins using a thin needle. The foam will fill the vein, causing it to collapse and eventually close. The injection process usually lasts around 30 minutes, depending on the number of veins being treated.
- Monitoring: After the injections, your provider may monitor you for a short time to ensure you do not experience any immediate adverse reactions.
- Post-Procedure Instructions: Once the procedure is finished, you’ll receive post-treatment care instructions, which may include wearing compression bandages or stockings, avoiding strenuous activities, and scheduling follow-up appointments.
- Discharge: Most patients are able to go home the same day after the procedure and can resume normal activities shortly thereafter, although some may experience mild swelling or discomfort in the treated area.
What is the follow-up and recovery process like for Varithena?
Recovery from Varithena treatment is generally quick. After the procedure, you will be instructed to wear compression stockings for at least a week to improve circulation and reduce swelling. Light walking is recommended, but strenuous activities should be avoided.
What Are the Potential Risks of Varithena?
Are There Any Tests or Diagnostics Related to Varithena?
- Ultrasound Imaging: This non-invasive procedure creates detailed images of the veins, helping to identify areas of venous insufficiency or varicosities and assess blood flow.
- Physical Examination: A comprehensive evaluation of your symptoms and medical history to develop an appropriate treatment plan.