Radio Frequency Vein Treatments

What are radiofrequency vein treatments?

Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that closes off blood flow to swollen, enlarged varicose veins. The team at American Vascular Specialists uses radiofrequency ablation to treat varicose veins that cause symptoms like pain, swelling, and irritation.

This type of treatment is less invasive than surgery and involves minimal scarring. Your American Vascular Specialists surgeon inserts a small tube (catheter) into the affected vein. Radiofrequency energy heats the vein and closes it off from blood flow. 

When would I need radiofrequency ablation to treat varicose veins?

The team at American Vascular Specialists may recommend radiofrequency vein treatments to alleviate common symptoms of varicose veins, including:

• Throbbing or aching pain in your legs
• Leg heaviness or fatigue
• Skin irritations or sores
• Skin discoloration
• Painful swelling

By closing off the vein, radiofrequency ablation treats the underlying cause of these symptoms without open surgery. 

What do radiofrequency vein treatments entail?

First, your American Vascular Specialists provider reviews your medical history and performs a physical exam to make sure radiofrequency ablation is right for you. Then, they develop a personalized treatment plan. 

Typically, radiofrequency ablation is an outpatient procedure, meaning you don’t have to stay in the hospital. The procedure usually takes about an hour. 

Your American Vascular Specialists provider numbs your skin with a local anesthetic and makes a small incision. They insert a narrow catheter, about the width of a pencil point, and use ultrasound imaging to guide the catheter to the precise location of your affected vein. 

They insert a radiofrequency electrode into the catheter. As they pull the electrode tip through your vein, the radiofrequency energy burns (cauterizes) the vascular tissue and closes it up.

How safe are radiofrequency vein treatments?

The skilled team at American Vascular Specialists spends time explaining the risks and benefits of radiofrequency ablation before your procedure so you can make an informed decision. 

Radiofrequency ablation involves less risk of blood clots and nerve damage than surgery, but there is still some risk. Skin burns are another possible side effect.

To find out if radiofrequency ablation for varicose veins is right for you, call American Vascular Specialists or book an appointment online today.