The procedure is called vein closure, an alternative to the tradition stripping process through which many patients have their veins removed. Vein closure is an outpatient surgery.
Doctors insert a specialized catheter with electrodes at the top.
The catheter is moved into place inside the vein and the surgeon then applies heat through the electrodes. The heat shrinks and seals the vein shut, which actually improves circulation through the other vessels. The surgery is much more effective than lasers, the patient can go home the same day, and more insurance companies are starting to cover it. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.