Varicose Vein Treatment with Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to generate heat inside a vein. The heat creates scar tissue on the vein’s inner lining, which cuts off blood flow to the varicose vein, permanently sealing it. Blood is then re-routed through healthier veins.

RFA is very similar to endovenous laser ablation in that it is minimally invasive and uses heat to close off varicose veins. In the case of RFA, the heat is created with radiofrequency energy rather than a laser. The goal of varicose vein treatment with RFA is to eliminate varicose veins, diminish symptoms, and lower the risk of serious vein disease complications, including blood clots.

What to expect during treatment

RFA is done in our state-of-the-art facility. The procedure takes approximately an hour.

You’ll be awake and your leg will be numbed with local anesthetic. A needle is inserted into a vein in your leg, and a catheter with a special tip is guided via ultrasound to the vein to be treated. Once in place, an electrical current is introduced through the catheter to heat the inner lining of the vein. As the catheter is slowly drawn out, the vein collapses and closes. The doctor may apply compression to help collapse the vein. After treatment, a compression stocking will be placed on your leg, which you’ll need to wear for a week or so. You’ll be able to walk and resume normal activities immediately.

Once the veins are closed, it takes the body time to re-absorb them. Patients usually start to see a reduction in visible varicose veins within a week, but full results may not be apparent for several weeks or months.

Benefits of radiofrequency ablation

There are a number of benefits to having your varicose veins treated with radiofrequency ablation.
● The procedure only takes about an hour
● No general anesthesia is required
● Low complication rates
● No recovery period
● Less painful than surgery

We treat the following: