Varithena

Varithena is a prescription polidocanol injectable foam used to treat selected incompetent veins and visible varicosities in the great saphenous vein system. It may be helpful when veins are twisted, branching, or not ideal for a straight catheter-based treatment.

Unlike EVLT or RFA, Varithena does not use heat. The foam is injected into the target vein under ultrasound guidance, where it contacts the vein wall and helps the vein collapse and close.

• Selected symptomatic varicose veins
• Incompetent great saphenous veins
• Accessory saphenous veins
• Visible varicosities in the great saphenous vein system
• Tortuous or branching veins that may not be ideal for thermal catheter treatment

The physician uses ultrasound guidance to place the foam in the correct vein. The foam displaces blood, contacts the vein lining, and causes the vein to close. Blood redirects through healthier veins.

Varithena is performed in the office. Some patients need more than one session depending on vein anatomy, extent of disease, and treatment goals.

Walking and compression are commonly recommended. Mild soreness, tenderness, bruising, firmness, or temporary discoloration can occur.

Varithena may be covered when symptoms and ultrasound findings support medical necessity. Requirements vary by plan.