Adhesive based therapy for varicose veins approved by FDA

Varicose veinsFormation of varicose veins

  • The US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) on 20th February 2015, approved a novel adhesive based therapy for the treatment of varicose veins.
  • VenaSeal system produced by Covidien LLC is used for the treatment of symptomatic superficial varicose veins in the lower limbs.
  • The adhesive used is n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate.
  • The adhesive delivery system consists of a catheter, guidewire, dispenser gun, dispenser tips and syringes.
  • The catheter is inserted via ultrasound guidance into the varicose vein.
  • The adhesive is introduced as a clear liquid which polymerises into a solid.
  • It was found to be as safe and effective as radiofrequency ablation in a manufacturer sponsored clinical trial .

Advantages

  • Does not involve application of heat / surgery.
  • It allows faster return to normal daily routine.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to the adhesive.
  • Acute phlebitis due to blood clots.
  • Whole body acute infection.

Adverse effects

  • Phlebitis
  • Paresthesia

Source : http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm435082.htm

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