Innovative Device Closes Diseased Perforating Veins

An endovascular ablation device for the treatment of incompetent perforating veins (IPVs) is being used to treat specific varicose vein-related condition in the lower leg.

The VNUS ClosureRFS stylet is an endovenous radiofrequency (RF) ablation catheter that includes an integrated cable and a streamlined hub designed for easier use and better ergonomics. The device delivers RF energy via two bipolar electrodes at the distal tip of the rigid shaft to heat the perforator vein wall and create vein wall thickening and occlusion. A micro-thermocouple monitors temperature and provides continuous feedback to the physician. The ablation procedure can be performed either as a primary outpatient procedure or as an adjunct to saphenous vein ablation procedures. The ClosureRFS stylet is a product of VNUS Medical Technologies (San Jose, Ca, USA), and has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

"ClosureRFS is absolutely the best way of closing perforators, with none of the drawbacks of other techniques we have researched,” said Dr. Mark Whiteley, a vascular surgeon and director of The Whiteley Clinic (Surrey, England). "The beauty of the RFS Stylet is that the ultrasound lets you know exactly where you are at all times during the procedure, so it reduces or eliminates the risk of complications, and you're certain of getting successful ablation of the vein exactly at the point you want it.”

Perforating veins connect the superficial venous system to the deep veins. Valves within the calf and thigh perforators prevent blood from refluxing into the superficial venous system; if these valves become damaged and become incompetent, blood can then flow down the veins and puddle in the lower leg. Incompetent perforating veins have been linked to varicose veins and to chronic venous insufficiency in its most severe manifestation, venous ulceration.


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