New Study Aims to Take Minimally Invasive Varicose Vein Treatments to the Next Level

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A new study conducted by Vienna’s Institute of Functional Phlebosurgery, Karl Landsteiner Society, has revealed exciting results into a new minimally invasive varicose vein treatment. The technique, along with its preliminary results, were presented at the Charing Cross Symposium in London.

The new treatment is said to require no needles, knives or a catheter and, most excitingly, requires no anaesthesia.

How will the new varicose vein procedure work?

The new procedure is said to be an automatic procedure, using a HIFU system. This device recently received a CE mark, and it uses both embedded ultrasound and an HIFU transducer which produces a focal heat of 85 Degrees Celsius. It also incorporates a single-use membrane and liquid which is used to protect the skin against burns during the procedure.

The treatment device will offer very precise vein targeting. Known as a SONOVEIN unit, it is first placed in the correct position compressing the vein, before planning the procedure on a touchscreen.

Preliminary results prove promising

The new treatment has just completed a feasibility study, after gaining ethical approval. The team followed participating patients for three months, treating a total of 50 legs. Patients with more severe varicose veins were chosen in order to effectively test the new device.

Adjunctive methods such as sclerotherapy, ligation and phlebectomy weren’t used throughout the study. The results showed that the new procedure was feasible for all of the patients enrolled and 34% of them were treated without any anaesthesia and there were no major side effects witnessed.

The fact it can treat more severe forms of the condition without anaesthetic is also an exciting finding.

How soon is it likely to hit the market?

This new automatic, needle and knife free varicose vein treatment certainly appears as though it could hit mainstream markets. However, it has only undergone a feasibility study. Further testing will need to be provided, meaning it could take many years before we see it on the market.

The good news is, there are lots of existing varicose vein treatments available, both surgical and non-invasive. Those suffering from varicose veins should therefore book a consultation to see which treatment options are currently best suited to them.