Varicose veins often cause pain and embarrassment for those who have them. Whether one has difficulty walking and standing or refuses to wear shorts or skirts, the veins often get in the way of daily life.  In the most severe cases, ulcers can form which can be limb threatening.

The Vascular Center of Excellence at Charleston Area Medical Center now offers the ClosureŽ procedure for people who endure leg pain and varicose veins caused by venous reflux disease. CAMC began using ClosureŽ in October 2004 as a minimally invasive alternative to vein stripping. During vein stripping, incisions are made in the calf and groin areas, and a tool is threaded through the diseased vein to pull it out of the leg.  By contrast ClosureŽ uses radio frequency energy to close a small vein with a catheter, resulting in less pain and bruising with a faster recovery time.