RF Ablation Procedure
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure for varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency. Venous insufficiency is the underlying circulatory disorder responsible for varicose veins (and other vein problems). As such, by treating varicose veins and their root cause, RFA ensures optimal, long-lasting results while minimizing the risk of recurrence.
How Does Radiofrequency Ablation Work?
Radiofrequency ablation works by shrinking and destroying the diseased saphenous veins responsible for varicose veins.
RF ablation is an in-office, outpatient procedure that usually concludes within 30 minutes with no downtime, allowing you to resume your daily activities immediately. Furthermore, radiofrequency ablation has a 98% success rate, so there’s rarely a need for additional treatments.
During radiofrequency ablation, the vein doctor makes a small incision on the skin’s surface to insert a thin tube (catheter) under ultrasound guidance. With ultrasound, the vein doctor accurately visualizes the diseased veins while guiding the catheter in place. Once the catheter is lodged in place, the vein doctor numbs the area with local anesthesia, ensuring a comfortable experience.
Finally, the vein doctor activates the catheter to generate thermal energy. This collapses the diseased vein and seals it shut. Once the diseased vein is closed, the accumulated blood reroutes into healthier leg veins, restoring effective blood circulation to the heart. The diseased vein is gradually absorbed by the body.
Radiofrequency ablation concludes within 30 minutes with no downtime. If you have underlying vein disease, this treatment may be covered by your insurance.
During the Sclerotherapy procedure, the affected leg is elevated and the vein doctor injects the sclerosant іn your varicose or spider veins. Thіѕ solution causes the lining of your blood vessels to collapse and the blood to clot inside of the vein, sealing it off. With time, the unhealthy veins turn into scar tissue, which eventually fades so the veins can no longer be seen. The blood flow is routed into healthy veins with valves that work properly, bringing the blood back to your heart. The procedure is done in an office or clinic and takes 10 to 30 mіnutеѕ, depending on the numbеr and size of varicose vеіnѕ treated.
Aftеr the insertion of scerosant, pressure is applied over the veins to prevent blood from pooling in the vein when you stand up. Your vein doctor will ask you to wear compression stockings for several days after the procedure
Your Expectations with Radiofrequency Ablation
- RF ablation involves no downtime, so you can resume your work and daily activities immediately after the procedure. You can walk immediately after the treatment.
- The vein doctor will wrap the treated leg in an ACE bandage. You must keep the bandage in place for at least 24 hours.
- You must wear compression stockings for at least one week after the procedure to ensure optimal recovery.
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