Radiofrequency Ablation

What is radiofrequency ablation (RFA)?

RFA is a minimally invasive treatment to eliminate varicose veins. During the RFA procedure, Dr. Rosen uses a catheter placed inside your vein to treat the varicosity with radiofrequency energy.

Heat from the radiofrequency energy makes the walls collapse. The treated area turns into scar tissue that’s absorbed by your body, permanently eliminating the targeted varicose veins, as well as venous insufficiency, which causes varicose veins. Your body then redirects blood flow, sending it through other healthy veins.

What causes varicose veins?

The blood in your legs flows up the veins, working against gravity to return to your heart. The veins have valves that ensure blood moves in one direction. When a valve fails, the blood flows backward and builds up in the veins, a condition called venous insufficiency.

As the blood continues to accumulate, the vein becomes engorged and turns into a twisted, highly visible varicose vein.

What symptoms indicate I might need radiofrequency ablation?

Many people choose to treat their varicose veins to improve their appearance. However, varicose veins can also cause symptoms such as:

• Leg pain that may feel achy, throbbing, and/or burning
• Leg swelling
• Heavy-feeling legs
• Tired legs
• Restless legs
• Itchy legs
• Painful cramps

You can also develop additional symptoms due to venous insufficiency. Untreated venous insufficiency often causes an eczema-like rash, reddish-brown discolored skin, and an open wound called a venous stasis ulcer.

What should I expect during radiofrequency ablation?

Using ultrasound imaging to see your veins and guide the catheter, Dr. Rosen makes a tiny cut in your leg, inserts the catheter, and advances it through your veins to the varicosity.

Once the catheter is in place, Dr. Rosen instills a local anesthetic solution around the vein. In addition to keeping you pain-free during the procedure, the fluid pushes the vein walls against the catheter.

For the final step, Dr. Rosen turns on the laser and slowly withdraws the catheter, treating the vein walls with radiofrequency energy along the way.

When the procedure is finished, you don’t need stitches. Dr. Rosen simply applies a bandage to the area where the catheter was inserted.

You’ll need to wear compression stockings and avoid strenuous activities for a short time. Otherwise, you can return to your normal routine as soon as the procedure is finished.

If you have questions about radiofrequency ablation for eliminating varicose veins, call Rosen Vein Care or book an appointment online.