How Radiofrequency Ablation Treats Problematic Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are one of the most common vascular conditions, affecting about one in five American adults. These discolored and twisted veins can be uncomfortable. While lifestyle changes may help manage your symptoms, some cases may require more advanced interventions.

Our Vascular & Interventional Specialists team offers radiofrequency ablation for varicose veins in Miami, Florida. This minimally invasive procedure treats varicose veins at the source, offering a long-lasting solution to problematic symptoms. Could this innovative method be a good option for you?

Understanding varicose veins

Varicose veins are enlarged veins that typically appear near the surface of your skin. They form when the valves inside veins stop working efficiently and begin allowing blood to pool up. While varicose veins can develop anywhere, they’re most common in your legs and feet.

The hallmark sign of varicose veins is large and twisted veins visible through your skin. Depending on your skin tone, these veins may have a bluish, purplish, or reddish hue. Most varicose veins don’t cause other symptoms — but in more severe cases, you might experience:

• Aching pain, especially after prolonged standing or sitting
• Itching or burning sensations around the varicose veins
• Sensation of heaviness in your legs
• Skin changes, like darkening or inflammation around the varicose veins

The symptoms of varicose veins can interfere with your daily life and confidence. And if they bother you, radiofrequency ablation could be a good option.

Radiofrequency ablation: a minimally invasive solution for problematic varicose veins

Radiofrequency ablation, or RFA, is a popular and effective treatment for varicose veins. It’s an outpatient procedure involving radiofrequency energy to heat and close off the affected veins. Once they’re closed, blood flow moves to healthier veins, and the varicose vein gradually disappears.

Our vein specialists start with a thorough consultation and evaluation. We examine your veins and ask questions about your medical history. Depending on your situation, we may do an ultrasound to assess the extent of your varicose veins.

If you choose radiofrequency ablation for varicose veins, here's what you can expect with treatment:

Administering local anesthesia

Before the procedure, we numb the area around your varicose veins with a local anesthetic. You remain awake during treatment, but the local anesthesia helps you stay comfortable.

Inserting the catheter

Then, we insert a thin catheter into the affected vein under ultrasound guidance. The catheter delivers radiofrequency energy to the vein wall, which heats it and makes it contract.

Closing the vein

We slowly remove the catheter. The heat from the radiofrequency energy makes the vein collapse and close. Treatment seals off the problematic vein, preventing further blood flow.

Recovering from RFA for varicose veins

Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure with a short recovery time. Most people can return to normal activities within a day. However, we may recommend avoiding strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for a short period.

Over the coming weeks and months, you can expect a significant improvement in varicose vein symptoms. The appearance of the veins should diminish, and the discomfort, swelling, and other associated symptoms disappear.

If you’re frustrated by problematic varicose veins, you could be a good candidate for radiofrequency ablation. Find relief from the discomfort and a renewed sense of confidence with help from our team at Vascular & Interventional Specialists. Schedule a consultation online or call our office at 305-230-4664 to get started.