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ClariVein is a relatively new treatment for varicose veins that uses a combination of techniques to get rid of problem veins. The two elements are a mechanical approach, using a rotating wire tip to disrupt and close the vein, and also a chemical injection that dissolves the vein.
This is a minimally invasive (keyhole) procedure done using a catheter and the whole operation is done using one very small incision (cut).
Compared to some other methods to treat varicose veins, ClariVein treatment offers reduced pain levels, minimal discomfort and minimal bruising. It is a safe and fast technique that can offer significant benefits in certain cases.
If you would like to know more about ClariVein or any of our other treatments for varicose veins, call us or book online to arrange a consultation with one of our consultant vascular surgeons. You'll usually be able to find an appointment within 48 hours.
What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged and swollen veins that usually appear on your legs. They tend to be blue or dark purple and might be bumpy or twisted. They happen because of faulty valves in your veins, which disrupt the normal blood flow.
These problem veins can be unsightly and many people find them uncomfortable, too. Some people develop complications, which can include bleeding or skin changes. There are many treatments available for varicose veins, including surgery, laser therapy and foam sclerotherapy.
ClariVein works by combining two methods of destroying varicose veins in one, both of which are performed using a minimally invasive catheter technique.
The first is a mechanical method. A wire with a rotating tip is passed into the problem vein to damage it, which eventually causes it to seal and the varicose vein should disappear.
The second method is chemical, whereby a sclerotherapy solution is injected through the catheter at the same time. Sclerotherapy and foam sclerotherapy are not typically suitable for veins with thick walls, however the combination of mechanical damage with this chemical damage allows it to be effective on these types of veins.
The main benefit of ClariVein is that your varicose veins should be destroyed and before long they will go away.
This is a minimally invasive (keyhole) technique that causes minimal pain, discomfort and bruising. It's done without anaesthetic, or occasionally with a local anaesthetic, but certainly doesn't require multiple needle sticks.
You should be able to return to normal activities almost immediately, as soon as your care team has checked you over. People can usually walk and drive immediately and postoperative pain is generally very mild. Over-the-counter painkillers should be enough to treat it, and after three or four weeks the pain should have disappeared.
ClariVein compared to other treatments for varicose veins
The benefits of this technique compared to laser and radiofrequency ablation treatments for varicose veins include:
- Faster procedure overall
- Reduced pain levels during and after the procedure
- Reduced discomfort during and after the procedure
- Reduced bruising
- No risk of nerve damage
- No need for tumescent anaesthetic, meaning fewer needles
- No risk of thermal damage from laser or radiofrequency energy
- Faster return to normal activities
Are there any risks to ClariVein for varicose veins?
This is a very low-risk procedure and complications are uncommon. They could include failure to successfully treat the veins, mild bruising, or temporary numbness in the lower leg.
Is ClariVein right for me?
ClariVein is not suitable for all types of varicose veins and it won't be right for every person. If you would like to find out whether this is the right treatment for you, book an appointment with one of our specialists below.
We don't offer ClariVein at all our hospitals, so if you would like to find out whether your local circle private hospital offers this treatment, give us a call and one of our friendly advisors will be able to tell you.
How much does varicose veins treatment cost?
The cost of treatment for varicose veins will depend on various factors, including the extent of your problem veins and related symptoms, as well as which type of treatment you have.
Varicose veins treatment is not usually available on the NHS, so most people go private. Luckily, treatments tend to be relatively affordable.
If you choose to pay for your treatment with Circle Health Group, we offer fixed-price packages so that you know exactly what you'll pay ahead of time, with no nasty surprises down the line.
If you want to spread the cost of your treatment, our flexible payment options allow you to pay in monthly instalments over a period of up to five years, with interest-free options available.
If you have private health insurance, varicose veins treatment may be covered by your policy, but you should speak to your insurer directly to find out.
We don't typically use an anaesthetic for this procedure, but if we do it will be an injection of local anaesthetic, which will be administered before the operation starts.
To start the procedure, your consultant will guide a needle into the vein that needs treatment, then they will insert a thin plastic tube called a sheath. This is what the ClariVein catheter is passed through.
The catheter is passed into the vein and up to your groin, where your consultant will activate it. The rotating wire tip will scratch and damage the inside of the problem vein. You might feel a 'buzzing' feeling in your leg, but it is not painful. Then the medicine will be injected into the vein, enhancing the effects of the wire.
The procedure takes around 15 minutes and you'll be able to go home very soon after. You should be able to walk and drive immediately.
Some people experience mild pain and discomfort for a few days or weeks afterwards, but traditional painkillers should relieve this.
Once you have had your ClariVein treatment, your varicose veins will quickly stop working and soon disappear altogether.
At Circle Health Group we have the experience and expertise to ensure the best possible care and outcome for our patients. As a patient with Circle Health Group you can expect the highest standards of care including:
- Flexible appointment times and locations that are convenient for you
- The freedom to choose which hospital and consultant best suit your needs
- Personalised, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs
- Comfortable and safe private facilities maintained by expert multidisciplinary teams
- Private ensuite rooms as standard
- A range of delicious healthy meals
- Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
- Flexible payment options to help you spread the cost of your care
If you would like to see a consultant or learn more about treating varicose veins, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly.
Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in March 2023. Next review due March 2026.
- Varicose veins treatment, NHS
- ClariVein treatment, British Varicose Veins Centre
- ClariVein treatment for varicose veins, NHS
- ClariVein, The Whiteley Clinic
