Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency Ablation Q & A

What is radiofrequency ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a treatment Dr. Madan uses at Center for Varicose Veins to resolve venous problems and varicose veins. 

Ablation means using a source of heat to safely create a precise level of damage to tissues in your body. When treating varicose veins, ablation causes the collagen in the vein walls to contract, so they collapse and close up. Blood can no longer travel along the treated vein, which eventually breaks down and disappears.

RFA causes the treated veins to collapse using heat created by radiofrequency energy.

To ensure accuracy and safety, Dr. Madan performs radiofrequency ablation using ultrasound guidance, which gives him a live view of your veins. 

Why would I need radiofrequency ablation?

You might be a suitable candidate for radiofrequency ablation if venous insufficiency is causing your varicose veins.

Venous insufficiency is a problem where your blood vessels don’t function properly. It develops when the valves in your veins weaken. Having faulty valves means that instead of blood traveling only back to your heart, it can seep back the wrong way along your veins.

The blood forms pools that show up as varicose veins, which are unsightly, lumpy, bulging veins that might be blue, red, or purple in color. As well as being unsightly, varicose veins might also cause symptoms such as:

• Aching / Pain

• Heaviness

• Fatigue / Tiredness

• Itching / Burning/ Warmth

• Throbbing / Cramping

• Restlessness

• Swelling

Venous insufficiency and varicose veins can also increase your risk of developing more serious conditions, including blood clots and venous leg ulcers.

Radiofrequency ablation is one of several cutting-edge treatment options available at Center for Varicose Veins.

What happens during a radiofrequency ablation session?

When you undergo radiofrequency ablation, Dr. Madan uses a local anesthetic or mild sedative to keep you comfortable. He inserts a slim tube (catheter) into your vein through a small puncture site, using ultrasound imaging for precision guidance.

When the catheter is in place, Dr. Madan delivers the radiofrequency energy at a precise and consistent heat until the vein collapses.

Radiofrequency ablation is an in-office procedure at Center for Varicose Veins and requires only minimal downtime afterward. Dr. Madan gives you compression stockings to wear for a week after your RFA procedure, to ensure the treatment delivers the optimal results.

You might also need to have a duplex ultrasound scan at a follow-up appointment to check for full closure of the problem veins.

Call Center for Varicose Veins today to find out more about radiofrequency ablation, or book an appointment online.