Less invasive procedure uses radio waves to repair varicose veins

INDIANAPOLIS – A novel treatment using radiofrequency (RF) energy to heat and close diseased leg veins is easing the pain of severe varicose veins for patients treated at St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers.

Vascular surgeon Michael Landis, M.D., is among the first physicians in Indiana to use the ClosureFAST device, providing a fast and virtually painless alternative to vein stripping and laser catheters.

“This is an outpatient procedure with little reported discomfort and patients typically are able to resume normal activities the following day,” said Landis, who is with the Indiana Vascular Institute at St. Francis. “The diseased vein is treated, allowing a return to normal healthy circulation. Symptoms are usually significantly improved or resolved.”

The ClosureFAST device, which has been cleared by the Food and Drug Administration, is in use by over a thousand physicians and hospitals nationwide. The procedure is primarily performed under local anesthesia.

The procedure, which is more than 96 percent effective according to studies, is designed for patients with serious conditions. It is not considered cosmetic surgery.

Varicose veins affect more than 25 million Americans – a majority of whom are women – and causes pain, swelling and severe disfigurement in many patients. Varicose veins, which appear twisted and rope-like, are a symptom of superficial venous reflux disease, which occurs when the valves that regulate blood flow in the veins stop working properly.

More information about the ClosureFAST device is available at www.closurefast.com.

More information about the Indiana Vascular Institute at St. Francis is at www.stfrancishospitals.org/sfmg/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=46.