04/11/2025
What is Radiofrequency Ablation for Varicose Veins?
This is also known as endovenous ablation technique. The procedure usually takes around 30 minutes. This is a method of closing off the vein that is feeding your varicose veins using heat. RFA is performed under local anaesthetic, which numbs a specific area of your body but does not put you to sleep. You recover faster and avoid many of the risks associated with having a general anaesthetic.
During the procedure, the surgeon numbs your skin with the local anaesthetic. Then makes a small (2mm) cut (incision), usually near your knee or on your calf. Using ultrasound for guidance, a narrow tube, called a catheter, is put into the vein that needs treating.
A fine probe is then passed through the catheter and inside your vein. Local anaesthetic is injected around the vein. The catheter is activated and powered by radiofrequency (RF) to deliver heat to the vein wall. The vein wall shrinks and the vein is sealed closed. The catheter is slowly removed and an ultrasound scan checks that the procedure has been successful.
A small dressing and a bandage will be placed over the small cut, and a compression stocking will be applied.
Middle Tennesse Vein Clinic
4323 Carothers Pkwy #300
Franklin, Tn 37067
