At Vein Care Specialists, our interventional radiologists offer safe and proven medical treatments for varicose veins. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is one of our many nonsurgical treatments we offer at our Lakeland, Florida-based vein clinic. Radiofrequency Ablation not only removes vein pain symptoms but also removes the underlying condition that causes them.
RFA is a minimally invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency energy (versus laser energy, like EVLT®) to treat varicose veins. Unlike EVLT® that seals the vein shut, the RFA procedure eliminates the affected vein from the inside by using heat to create scar tissue. The scar tissue effectively closes the vein, causing it to shrink and eventually become absorbed by the body and disappear. The blood is then diverted to healthy veins improving circulation.
The RFA procedure is generally recommended for patients who have greater saphenous vein or smaller saphenous vein reflux. It is not recommended for large, visible tortuous varicose veins.
RF ablation is sometimes recommended over laser (EVLT) therapy because it can result in less bruising, a lower risk of perforation and less pain after the procedure. Call Vein Care Specialists at (863) 577-0269 to book an appointment with one of our best vein doctors and find more information on minimally invasive procedures for vein disease treatment. Benefits of RF ablation include:
- Treatment in less than an hour
- Can be performed in the doctor’s office
- No general anesthesia or hospitalization
- Return to normal activity immediately – with little or no pain
- Up to 97% success rate
- Immediate relief of symptoms
- No scars or stitches — the procedure does not require a surgical incision
- Minimal bruising and swelling
- Many insurance carriers cover VenaSeal™ based on medical necessity for symptom relief
What to expect from RF ablation
During the RF ablation procedure, a numbing injection is used over the area of the varicose vein. A very small catheter is then inserted into the leg and into the varicose vein. Some pressure from the placement of the catheter may be felt. The radiofrequency energy is then activated to close the varicose vein, and a slight and non-painful “warming” sensation during the treatment may be experienced.
After the procedure, the small incision is bandaged and compression hose are placed over the treated leg to reduce swelling, bruising and to reduce the risk of a blood clot.
Schedule a Consultation
During the initial consultation at Vein Care Specialists, you will be asked several questions and your legs will be examined by our vein care specialist. Our vein care specialist will ask you about any problems you may have with your legs, such as pain, aching, itching or tenderness. You will also be asked about your medical history, medications you take, or conditions that would preclude you from having treatment.
Contact Vein Care Specialists
Vein Care Specialists is located in Lakeland, Florida and serves patients throughout Central Florida including the Plant City, Winter Haven, Kissimmee and Haines City communities. Call (863) 577-0269 today to learn more about radiofrequency ablation for varicose vein treatment. We offer a consultation to go over all of our vein treatment options. 