Venaseal Glue Treatment offers a breakthrough approach to managing varicose veins.
This walk-in, walk-out procedure provides an effective alternative to traditional methods.
A major international multi-centre study ran from 2013 to 2014 and showed excellent one-year outcomes.
Researchers published the findings in 2014 in the Journal of Vascular Surgery: Venous and Lymphatic Disorders.
Professor Mark Whiteley and The Whiteley Clinic led the UK’s involvement in this ground-breaking trial.

What is Venaseal Glue Treatment?

Venaseal Glue Treatment uses a medical adhesive to seal faulty leg veins with minimal invasion. Often referred to as “superglue,” this innovative method stands apart from traditional thermal ablation techniques such as EVLA (endovenous laser ablation) and RFA (radiofrequency ablation).

Unlike those thermal methods, which require multiple injections of local anaesthetic along the length of the vein, Venaseal avoids this discomfort entirely. As a result, patients experience a much gentler procedure.

In addition, the treatment significantly reduces the need for post-procedure compression stockings, making aftercare simpler and more comfortable. Therefore, it appeals strongly to those seeking a less invasive and more convenient solution for varicose veins.

Read more: Venaseal Glue Treatment for Varicose Veins

Why is This Treatment Different?

The main benefit of Venaseal Glue Treatment is that it avoids the use of tumescent anaesthesia.
By contrast, thermal treatments like EVLA and RFA require multiple needle injections to numb the entire length of the vein, a process many patients find uncomfortable.

Instead, Venaseal needs just one injection at the catheter entry point. For this reason, it is especially appealing to patients who fear needles or feel anxious about injections.

Moreover, most patients can return to normal activities immediately after the procedure. This makes Venaseal a convenient and patient-friendly option for treating varicose veins.

Why Choose This Treatment?

The big advantage is comfort. It eliminates the need for tumescent anaesthesia. Traditional methods require numbing along the entire vein. That means many needle jabs.

In contrast:

• Venaseal uses just one injection


• It's perfect for people afraid of needles


• Most patients return to normal life the same day

How Does the Procedure Work?

A video from The Whiteley Clinic shows each step.

• First, ultrasound guides a needle into the faulty vein.


• A fine catheter (as thin as a biro refill) slides up the vein.


• Medical glue is delivered in small amounts.


• The catheter is pulled back slightly after each drop.


• Glue seals each section of the vein.

The glue hardens in minutes. Over time, the body absorbs it, leaving scar tissue. This keeps the vein closed for good. As a result, blood no longer flows backwards,  the main cause of varicose veins.

Clinical Results of the 2013–2014 Study

The European multi-centre study, which included The Whiteley Clinic as one of only three centres in the UK, followed patients for a full year after they underwent Venaseal Glue Treatment. The results, published in 2014 in the Journal of Vascular Surgery: Venous and Lymphatic Disorders, were highly encouraging. Closure rates proved comparable to those achieved with EVLA and RFA, the two leading thermal ablation methods at the time.

Importantly, patients – particularly those with needle phobia or minimal visible bulging veins – reported less discomfort, required fewer injections, and had a reduced need for compression stockings after the procedure. These outcomes highlight Venaseal as a strong and patient-friendly alternative for selected individuals who seek effective vein treatment with minimal intervention.

Cost vs Comfort 

Venaseal Glue Treatment does come with a higher price tag, usually about £1,000 more than EVLA or RFA.
As a result, the cost may not be justifiable for every patient, particularly for those who tolerate injections well or already own compression stockings.

Nevertheless, for many people, the added comfort, greater convenience, and quicker return to daily life make the extra cost worthwhile.
In fact, this treatment is ideal for busy individuals who want a minimally invasive option with very little downtime.

The Whiteley Clinic’s Role in Advancing Treatment

Professor Mark Whiteley has pioneered the diagnosis and treatment of varicose veins in the UK. His role in the original study shows a strong commitment to evidence-based innovation. By joining international research, The Whiteley Clinic has helped shape both the understanding and clinical use of new vein treatments such as Venaseal.

The Whiteley Clinic also ranked among the first in the UK to adopt the Venaseal Glue Treatment. Today, it continues to offer this option as part of its personalised approach to venous care.

A Proven, Patient-Friendly Option

In conclusion, Venaseal Glue Treatment is a safe, effective, and well-tolerated option for managing varicose veins. Published one-year data supports its use, while real-world clinical experience further confirms its benefits. It now stands as a true alternative to thermal ablation.

For patients who prioritise comfort, fewer injections, and minimal downtime, this innovative procedure offers a compelling choice. Thanks to clinics like The Whiteley Clinic, it is now more accessible than ever.