Radiofrequency ablation for varicose veins seals the faulty vein from the inside using radiofrequency heat, through a thin tube (catheter) passed in via a small puncture, without a surgical cut. It is used for main surface veins with weak valves and, in Amman, is done under local anaesthetic after an examination and a Doppler ultrasound.
Note: Radiofrequency ablation is one of the options for non-surgical varicose vein treatment and does not suit every case. Your examination decides whether it suits you.
When is radiofrequency ablation considered?
- Varicose veins causing aching, heaviness or swelling.
- Faulty valves in a main surface vein seen on a Doppler scan.
- Compression stockings have not eased symptoms enough.
- Skin changes or an ulcer linked to vein problems.
- The vein's path is suitable for passing the catheter.
What does radiofrequency ablation treat?
Varicose veins often come from weak valves in a main surface vein, so blood flows back and pools. Radiofrequency ablation treats this by closing the faulty vein so blood reroutes through healthy veins.
- Backflow in the great or small saphenous vein.
- Varicose branches from these veins, sometimes with extra treatment for the branches.
- Some symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency.
Diagnosis
Your doctor examines your legs and asks about your symptoms, medicines and health history, including any previous blood clots.
Your doctor may request a Doppler ultrasound to find the faulty vein, its width and its path. This decides whether radiofrequency ablation is suitable or another method may suit you more.
Where radiofrequency fits among the options
Radiofrequency ablation is part of a step-by-step plan that starts with the simplest option:
Laser and radiofrequency work on the same idea and differ in the heat source. The choice depends on your scan, the shape of your veins and your general health.
- Lifestyle changes and compression stockings to ease symptoms.
- Sclerotherapy for small and medium veins.
- Radiofrequency or laser treatment to close the main vein from inside, without a surgical cut.
- Surgery where other methods are not suitable.
What to expect on the day and after
The procedure is usually done under local anaesthetic. The doctor finds the vein with ultrasound, passes the catheter in through a small puncture, injects numbing fluid around the vein, then heats the vein wall section by section until it closes. Most patients go home the same day.
- You are usually encouraged to walk soon afterwards.
- You may be asked to wear compression stockings for a period your doctor will set.
- Tightness, a firm feeling or bruising along the vein may occur and settles gradually.
- Return to work and exercise varies from person to person; your surgeon will explain what to expect.
- A follow-up visit with a Doppler scan may be arranged to confirm the vein has closed.
When to book an appointment
- Varicose veins that cause troublesome symptoms.
- You want to know whether radiofrequency ablation could suit you.
- Skin changes on the leg or a slow-healing wound.
- New pain, swelling or redness after a procedure, which should prompt you to contact your doctor.