About Superficial Venous Reflux Disease

Venous reflux or venous insufficiency develops when the valves that usually keep blood flowing out of your legs become damaged or diseased. See a short animation video on venous reflux.

Varicose veins are a symptom of superficial venous reflux, a condition when the valves in the saphenous vein of the leg do not function properly. As a result, blood tends to flow backwards causing swollen, painful legs and fatigue.
Varicose veins are known for their distinctive bluish color and bulging appearance just below the skin. They affect an estimated 20-25 million people in the United States, the majority of whom are women.

The main treatment alternative is to re-route blood flow through healthy veins. Traditionally, this has been done by surgically removing (stripping) the troublesome vein from your leg. Closure provides a less-invasive alternative to vein stripping by closing the diseased vein instead.