We have big news for people seeking treatment for varicose veins and venous disease!
From 1st May 2018, medical adhesive glue (medical cyanoacrylate) has been introduced onto the Medicare Benefit Scheme. This means there is now a Medicare rebate available for patients with varicose veins treated by medical adhesive glues like VenaSeal.
What is VenaSeal?
VenaSeal adhesive is a medical grade glue that is used to shut the great and small saphenous vein in the thigh. The treatment is now referred to as cyanoacrylate embolisation and describes the process by which this medical super glue seals the vein and then undergoes polymerization within seconds to permanently seal the diseased vein. Once glued shut, the vein will undergo a process of hardening (sclerosis) and will be gradually absorbed by the body.
Dr Paraskevas uses the VenaSeal procedure in many cases at Vein Health Medical Clinic.
How effective is the VenaSeal procedure?
The published success of the VenaSeal closure procedure is up to 98.9% (VeClose study), with far fewer complications than EVLA or surgery. VenaSeal has been meticulously trialed in the United States and Europe over the last 5 years. Results published show a low risk of complications and excellent medium-term results. The VeClose study out of Germany, showed a 98.9% closure rate at 6 months. VenaSeal is considered as effective as endovenous laser ablation but does not involve the use of heat and can therefore be performed with the application of a small amount of local anaesthetic as opposed to a nerve block or large volumes of tumescent anaesthetic.
It is possible to treat two or more veins in the one session. Stockings are usually not necessary, and patients are able to return to normal activities immediately. Surface varicose veins are usually treated 2-4 weeks after the VenaSeal procedure with either ultrasound guided sclerotherapy or ambulatory phlebectomy.
Key Takeaways
- Medical adhesive glue (medical cyanoacrylate) is now available on the Medicare Benefits Scheme!
- Vein Health Medical Clinic uses VenaSeal to treat the great and small saphenous veins.
- VenaSeal seals off the diseased vein, which hardens and is gradually absorbed into the body.
