Procedure | Minimally Invasive
Radiofrequency Ablation for Varicose vein
Radiofrequency ablation treatment uses radiofrequency(instead of laser energy) to heat up damaged tissues in order to form scar tissue. This is a minimally invasive treatment targeted for varicose vein treatment. Once scar tissue has been formed, the vein is then closed.
To prepare, you will need to avoid certain medications that can thin your blood or prevent clotting. You may be required to stop certain supplements, herbs and vitamins.
Thorough cleansing of the area treated will be done to minimize the risk of infection. Imaging will also be taken as a guide during the procedure before applying a numbing agent to the treatment area.
To begin, a needle will be placed accurately and inserted into the vein being treated. The catheter with RF heat source is then passed into your vein. More numbing medication may be administered. Once the catheter is in the right position, it is then slowly drawn backward, sending heat out and thus, closing off the vein.
When treatment is done, the catheter is removed. Pressure is then applied to stop any bleeding before putting on a compression garment.
The process may then be repeated for more than one nerve.
Usually, after a radiofrequency ablation treatment, patients will be in a recovery room for 15-60 minutes especially if sedation was used to ensure vital signs are normal.
Expect some sensitivity and burning sensation to occurs. In some cases, slight numbness of the skin may be experienced.
Ice packs can be used intermittently to help with pain and reduce swelling. It should only be used for about 15-20 minutes each time with at least a 2-hour interval. Heat packs are not advised.
You may be required to wear compression garments for a week or more.
It is advised to rest for several days before returning to normal activity.
Success rates are high. Most veins treated become invisible after the procedure but may take up to a year to completely disappear.
It is common to have persistent bruising or discoloration of the skin for weeks to months after the procedure.
Possible risk may include:
- Skin burns.
- Feelings of burning, pain, or prickling after recovery, from nerve damage (less likely than after vein stripping surgery).
- Small or large blood clotting in the vein or a deep vein
