AngioDynamics, a leading provider of innovative, minimally invasive medical devices for vascular access, surgery, peripheral vascular disease and oncology, applauds the decision by National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) to issue updated guidance for the treatment of varicose veins. The newly issued guidance establishes endothermal ablation, which includes endovascular laser treatment like the Company’s VenaCure EVLT system, as the recommended first option in treating varicose veins.
More than 40,000 varicose veins procedures are performed each year in the United Kingdom, an estimated 70% of which involve vein stripping where the varicose vein is pulled out through incisions at the groin and knee. Vein stripping is a more extensive procedure than thermal modalities and may require up to 10 days for recovery followed by bruising for several weeks.
“While the standard of care for varicose veins has turned toward minimally invasive therapies like the VenaCure EVLT system – with its innovative VenaCure 1470 laser and NeverTouch Direct fiber that may allow patients to return to their normal lives the same day with lasting results – in many parts of the country surgery is offered as the first option,” said Professor Mark Whiteley, MS FRCS(Gen) FCPhleb, Consultant Surgeon and Clinic Director of The Whiteley Clinic. “I am hopeful as more people are exposed to endothermal ablation as opposed to invasive surgeries, they will be less likely to live with the unnecessary pain caused by the condition.”
Varicose veins affect up to 3 in 10 adults in the UK. Symptoms include pain, aching, heaviness, itching, restless leg phenomenon, cramping, hair loss in the lower legs, and skin changes ranging from dryness to extensive dermatitis. Usually these symptoms will worsen as the day progresses and with activities such as prolonged standing or sitting. While these symptoms start out as mild, they can progress in severity if left untreated.
“We are pleased that more patients in the NHS system will have access to minimally invasive alternatives to surgery,” said John Soto, AngioDynamics Senior Vice President, Global Franchise, Peripheral Vascular. “AngioDynamics’ development of the VenaCure 1470 laser and NeverTouch Direct kit reflects our commitment to treating varicose veins with a focus on efficacy and patient safety and comfort.”
