Vein Treatment & Removal by Radiofrequncy Ablation

What does this treatment and removal consist of?

Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins. Ablation means a doctor uses heat to damage tissue, which makes scar tissue form. This scar tissue closes the vein. This technique uses radiofrequency energy to heat up and damage the wall inside a vein. This usually closes off a varicose vein in the leg.

To treat a varicose vein, radiofrequency energy is directed through a thin tube/catheter inserted through a small incision in the vein. It can be used on large veins in the leg and can be done in an office setting using local anesthesia or a mild sedative. You will be able to walk following the treatment and recovery typically is short.

How well does it work?

Radiofrequency ablation closes off varicose veins in about 88 out of 100 people. That means it doesn't work in about 12 out of 100 people.

• Pain after treatment is typically less after ablation than after vein surgery.

• Veins that do not close are treated again.

• Relief of symptoms following 2 days after the procedure 

• Noticeable improvement of the treated area in 1-2 weeks.

• Less pain than laser

• Rapid recovery-- patients can resume normal activities after their procedure