Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Why Vein Health Health Matters

If you’ve noticed aching, swelling, or visible veins in your legs, you’re not alone. Varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) affect millions of people, causing discomfort, fatigue, and even skin changes. Treating these vein issues not only improves appearance but also prevents complications and enhances overall leg health.

What is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive medical procedure that uses targeted heat energy to treat varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). During the procedure, a catheter is inserted into the affected vein, and radiofrequency energy is applied to the vein walls, causing them to collapse and seal shut. This process reroutes blood flow to healthier veins, alleviating symptoms associated with venous disorders.

What is Vein Treatment with RFA?

Vein treatment with RFA is a non-surgical approach to addressing venous insufficiency. It involves the use of radiofrequency energy to close off malfunctioning veins, thereby improving blood circulation and reducing symptoms such as swelling, pain, and the appearance of varicose veins. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, allowing patients to return to normal activities relatively quickly.

Types of Vein Issues Treated with RFA

• Varicose Veins: Enlarged, twisted veins visible under the skin.
• Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI): Veins that cannot efficiently return blood to the heart, causing swelling, leg pain, and skin changes.
• Spider Veins: Small red or blue veins near the skin’s surface, treatable with RFA in select cases.

How RFA Works

1. Preparation & Anesthesia: The treatment area is cleaned, and local anesthesia is applied.
2. Catheter Insertion: A small incision allows a catheter to be guided into the affected vein using ultrasound imaging.
3. Radiofrequency Energy Application: The catheter emits energy to collapse and seal the vein walls.
4. Vein Closure & Recovery: The treated vein is gradually absorbed by the body, and blood flows through healthier veins. Compression stockings or bandages are applied to support healing.

What to Expect After RFA?

Mild bruising or swelling may occur, which usually resolves within days. Light walking is encouraged to promote circulation. Compression stockings are worn as advised to aid vein closure. Follow-up visits ensure proper healing and evaluate treatment success.

Dos and Don’ts After RFA

Dos:

• Wear compression stockings as instructed.
• Engage in light activities like walking.
• Elevate legs while resting.
• Attend follow-up appointments.

Don’ts:

• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for a short period.
• Do not remove compression stockings prematurely.
• Avoid prolonged standing or sitting.
• Avoid hot baths, saunas, or excessive heat until cleared by your doctor.

Who Is a Good Candidate for RFA?

Ideal candidates are individuals with varicose veins or CVI experiencing leg pain, swelling, or visible veins. Patients should be in good overall health and free of active infections or blood clots. A vascular specialist will determine suitability based on your condition.

Why RFA Works?

RFA effectively closes malfunctioning veins, rerouting blood through healthy veins. This relieves symptoms, improves circulation, and restores leg health. The procedure is minimally invasive, precise, and has a high success rate with low complication risk.

Types of RFA

Vein-Focused RFA (for vein treatment)

• Thermal RFA -Standard method using heat to close the vein.
• Cooled RFA (Cool RF) – Uses a cooled probe for a larger lesion; mostly experimental.
• Pulsed RF – Delivers energy pulses without destroying the vein; mostly experimental.

Keynote: Thermal RFA is the primary approach; cooled and pulsed RF are mostly experimental in pain management procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does RFA hurt?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort thanks to local anesthesia.
How long is the recovery?
Normal activities can usually resume within a few days, with compression stockings worn as recommended.
Are results permanent?
RFA effectively closes treated veins permanently, though new varicose veins may develop over time.

Schedule an Appointment

If you’re experiencing varicose veins or CVI symptoms, schedule a consultation today to see if RFA is right for you.