Radiofrequency vein ablation (RFA) is a minimally-invasive treatment for venous insufficiency and varicose veins. In RFA, a small plastic catheter delivers heat to the vein wall, causing it to shrink and then the vein to seal closed. Once the vein is sealed closed, the blood is routed to nearby healthy veins for improved circulation in the area.

Radiofrequency vein ablation has become the most popular alternative to the more invasive vein stripping procedure done in hospitals or the more painful laser vein ablations. RFA is associated with far less tissue damage and a faster and more comfortable recovery compared to vein stripping procedures or laser vein ablation. With RFA most patients experience much less bleeding and bruising compared to laser vein ablation

Radiofrequency vein ablation is an in-office outpatient procedure. First, Dr. Radwaner maps out the vein using ultrasound imaging. He marks the incision site and numbs the treatment area using a local anesthetic. Then he makes a small incision into the damaged vein. The incision allows Dr. Radwaner to insert a thin, flexible catheter into the damaged vein. Once the catheter is in position, the radiofrequency device is advanced to the damaged area of the vein. The device emits controlled beams of energy along the damaged portion of the vein, causing it to shrink and the vein to seal closed. Because the RFA catheter allows precise measuring of the temperature reached within the vein, it results in less bleeding, bruising, and tissue damage.

After the vein is treated, Dr. Radwaner performs another ultrasound to assess the results before he removes the catheter. When the procedure is complete, he removes the catheter and RFA device and places a bandage.

Depending on how large the area is that is being treated, and how large the veins are will determine how long it may take for the vein ablation to heal. Usually, our patients are noticing their smaller veins begin to disappear around the 3 to 6-week mark post-treatment, and the larger veins begin to disappear around the 3-month mark post-treatment.

A few things we recommend to help speed up the recovery of radiofrequency vein ablation:

– Walking
– No exercise for 7 days after the procedure
– Wear compression stockings for 3 weeks

Once your RF ablation treatment is complete, you’ll be able to walk right away, and in fact, regular walking is encouraged to promote healing and circulation. You’ll need to wear the dressing that was placed on after the procedure for approximately 48 hours. You’ll also need to come back to the office for a brief follow-up exam approximately 48- 72 hours later.

Elite Veins NY is a concierge practice without a concierge fee. Dr. Radwaner personally performs all procedures. Before your appointment, please provide the office with your insurance policy number and group number so the office can confirm your coverage.

Radiofrequency vein ablation (RFA) is a minimally-invasive in-office procedure taking approximately 30-45 minutes for treating venous insufficiency and varicose veins. If you suffer from these painful, unsightly veins, or have leg pain, burning, or swelling, RFA could be a good treatment option for you. At Elite Veins, located in New York, NY, Dr. Bradley Radwaner offers RFA procedures done in the office under local anesthesia, with the patient able to walk right out of the office when completed. To learn more, call our vein clinic or use our online system to schedule an appointment today. We serve patients from the New York City NY, Queens NY, Brooklyn NY, Manhattan NY, Bronx NY, Hoboken NJ, West New York NJ and surrounding areas.