This article compares two approaches side by side to clarify how they differ in principle and practice. Device selection depends on vein anatomy, diameter, tortuosity, and clinician preference, and is always determined on a case-by-case basis by the treating physician. As a medical device manufacturer, INVAMED develops technologies in this area; the information here is educational and not medical advice.
Background: Varicose Veins and Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Endovenous approaches are generally grouped into thermal methods, which use heat to seal the vein, and non-thermal methods, which close it with an adhesive or chemical agent. Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) sits on the same disease spectrum and can present with aching, heaviness, swelling, skin changes, and in advanced cases venous ulceration. Device selection depends on vein anatomy, diameter, tortuosity, and clinician preference, and is always determined on a case-by-case basis by the treating physician.
Cyanoacrylate closure vs Endovenous laser ablation: Key Differences
Cyanoacrylate closure seals the vein with adhesive and no heat, while endovenous laser ablation uses thermal energy from a fiber. The non-thermal route removes the need for tumescent anesthesia and reduces the risk of heat-related nerve irritation in certain anatomic locations. Laser ablation, particularly with modern radial 1470 nm fibers, is designed to limit collateral heating and bruising. INVAMED produces both VenaBLOCK and LaserBLOCK, allowing a clinician to match method to the specific vein.
How INVAMED Supports Both Approaches
Device availability and regulatory status vary by country. Please contact INVAMED or your authorized local distributor for current regulatory information applicable to your region.
Key Considerations
- Graduated compression is commonly used after ablation to support the treated limb, per clinician protocol.
- Accurate duplex ultrasound mapping before treatment is central to identifying the source of reflux and planning device placement.
- All INVAMED venous devices are intended for use by trained clinicians under ultrasound guidance and per the IFU.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who decides which vein treatment is appropriate?
Only a qualified clinician can decide, based on ultrasound mapping and individual assessment; this article is educational and not a treatment recommendation.
Can varicose veins come back after treatment?
Treated veins are intended to stay closed, but new varicose veins can develop over time because treatment addresses existing disease rather than the underlying predisposition.
Clinical and Technical Context
INVAMED reports 95%+ efficacy for saphenous reflux with ThermoBLOCK; as with all such figures, real-world outcomes are determined by patient selection and technique. Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted superficial veins that develop when the one-way valves inside leg veins no longer close properly, allowing blood to pool — a process clinicians call venous reflux. Vein diameter, depth, and tortuosity influence whether a thermal or non-thermal device is more suitable. Device figures cited by INVAMED describe studied performance and should not be read as individual guarantees. Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) sits on the same disease spectrum and can present with aching, heaviness, swelling, skin changes, and in advanced cases venous ulceration. Device selection depends on vein anatomy, diameter, tortuosity, and clinician preference, and is always determined on a case-by-case basis by the treating physician. INVAMED's ThermoBLOCK system pairs an RF generator with dedicated catheters and stylets and, according to the company, maintains vein-wall temperatures in the 85–120 °C range depending on protocol. Graduated compression is commonly used after ablation to support the treated limb, per clinician protocol.
Related on INVAMED
- Varicose Vein — product category
- Varicose Vein: A Complete Technical Guide
- VeinOFF Varicose Vein Treatment Agent — Technical Overview
- Choosing a Varicose Vein Supplier: What Buyers Should Know
Important Disclaimer
The information here is provided for educational purposes and to describe device technology; it is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Only a licensed healthcare provider can determine whether a given procedure or device is appropriate for a specific patient. INVAMED products are restricted to use by qualified professionals following the official IFU. Regulatory clearance and labeling differ between regions, and not all products or indications are available in every market.
Reviewed by the INVAMED Medical Affairs team. Content is educational and technical in nature.