China Approves Scar-Free Glue Treatment for Varicose Veins

Millions of people suffering from painful, bulging leg veins now have a gentler path to relief, thanks to a breakthrough medical adhesive developed in China.

Shanghai researchers have created the country's first domestically developed medical glue for treating varicose veins, a condition affecting up to 60 percent of adults in varying degrees. The National Medical Products Administration has approved the treatment, and hospitals are already using it to help patients avoid traditional surgery.

Varicose veins happen when weakened vessel walls and faulty valves fail to pump blood back to the heart efficiently. Patients endure leg pain, soreness, and swelling, and severe cases can trigger dangerous blood clots that may lead to life-threatening complications.

Dr. Qu Lefeng from Shanghai Changzheng Hospital, a key developer of the glue, explained how the new approach works differently. A tiny catheter guided by ultrasound delivers biocompatible cyanoacrylate adhesive directly into the damaged vein, where it instantly hardens on contact with blood and seals the vessel shut.

Over several weeks, the body naturally reabsorbs the sealed vein while redirecting blood flow to healthy vessels. The entire procedure requires no anesthesia, leaves no scars, and causes minimal pain.

Traditional treatments include compression stockings, invasive surgery that leaves prominent scars, or high-temperature laser and radiofrequency ablation that can damage surrounding healthy tissue. Recovery often takes weeks and requires hospital stays.

Clinical trials show the new glue closes veins just as effectively as radiofrequency ablation at the three-month mark. Patients experience fewer complications and better long-term outcomes, according to the research team.

The procedure's efficiency stands out dramatically. Patients complete blood work and heart tests on day one, receive treatment on day two, and walk out immediately after. The total cost runs about 15,000 yuan, or roughly $2,200, significantly less than comparable procedures in Western countries.

The Ripple Effect

Shanghai hospitals are attracting international medical tourists seeking this faster, more affordable solution. The streamlined workflow allows expatriate patients to complete their entire treatment journey in just two days, compared to much longer timelines abroad.

Beyond individual relief, this innovation represents China's growing capacity to develop advanced medical technologies independently. The treatment gives doctors worldwide a new tool for managing a condition that affects hundreds of millions globally.

Day surgery means patients return to normal life almost immediately, reducing time away from work and family. For elderly patients or those with health conditions that make traditional surgery risky, the gentler approach opens treatment possibilities that weren't available before.

A breakthrough born in Chinese labs is now offering hope and healing to aching legs around the world.