VenaSeal™ vs. Laser (EVLT) & RFA

Understanding Your Options: When Non‑Thermal Treatment May Be Preferred for Certain High‑Risk Patients.

Detailed Treatment Analysis

When treating varicose veins, especially in elderly patients or those with complex medical histories, minimizing trauma to the body is critical. While standard thermal methods like EVLT and RFA are effective, VenaSeal™ represents the next generation of vein care—eliminating the need for high heat, multiple needle sticks, and tumescent anesthesia.

Consult our Qualified Interventional Radiologists at our 8 locations in Maharashtra and 1 location in Tanzania.

Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) & Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

The Traditional "Established Thermal Techniques"

How it Works: A catheter delivers heat energy (laser or radiofrequency) inside the vein, causing the walls to collapse and seal.

The Pros: These are time-tested, proven methods with high success rates for closing straight veins.

The Cons (Why we offer alternatives):

  • Heat Risks: The use of high heat carries a small risk of skin burns or nerve injury (numbness), especially in patients with thin skin.
  • Tumescent Anesthesia: The procedure requires multiple needle injections along the leg to insulate the vein, which can be uncomfortable for anxious patients.
  • Mandatory Stockings: Patients strictly need to wear tight compression stockings for weeks post-procedure.

VenaSeal™ (The "Super Glue" Method)

The Advanced Non-Thermal Choice

How it Works: VenaSeal™ uses a proprietary medical adhesive delivered through a small catheter to seal the vein shut instantly. No heat is used.

When It May Be Considered for High‑Risk & Elderly Patients:

  • No Thermal Heat: Avoids thermal nerve injury risk associated with heat‑based methods.
  • Comfort: No need for “Tumescent Anesthesia” (the multiple needle shots). This reduces procedure time and patient anxiety.
  • Lifestyle Friendly: Patients can typically return to normal activities immediately without the hassle of wearing compression stockings.

RFA/LASER

Thermal Ablation:

Uses high heat (120°C+) to burn the vein closed.

Multiple Injections:

Requires Tumescent Anesthesia (multiple needle pricks).

Moderate:

Post-procedure bruising or “tightness” is common due to heat.

Risk Exists:

Heat near nerves can cause temporary numbness or injury.*

Standard:

Compression stockings are mandatory for 1-2 weeks.

Ideal for:

Standard varicose veins in healthy adults.

VenaSeal

Adhesive Closure:

Uses medical-grade glue to seal the vein instantly.

Single Prick:

Requires only one small injection at the access site.

Minimal:

Generally with less post‑procedure discomfort in most cases.

No Thermal Risk:

Safe for veins close to nerves (saphenous nerve).

Rapid:

No compression stockings required in most cases.

Ideal for:

Elderly, High-Risk Patients, and those fearing needles/surgery.

* “When RFA/LASER performed by trained specialists, serious complications are uncommon, but potential risks include temporary numbness or nerve irritation.”