Radio High-Frequency Vein Therapy or Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy is one of the newest technologies when it comes to the treatment of varicose veins. What are varicose veins? How does this procedure work? How much does it cost? In this article, we will find out how this new innovation will help eliminate varicose veins the hassle-free and painless way.

How Does Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy Work?

Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy is a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins that uses heat to damage tissue to form scar tissue. Varicose veins are raised, swollen and twisty veins that can be large and dark blue in color. They usually occur in the legs but a number of patients have reported having them in their hands, face, and breasts too. Some of the discomforts associated with varicose veins are restless legs, pain, ankle swelling and night cramps.  When the scar tissue is formed during the procedure, it then closes the vein and thus, eliminating the look of “spider veins”. Instead of using laser energy, this treatment uses radiofrequency energy to heat up and damage the walls of the vein. The first step of the treatment is the application of local anesthesia or a mild sedative depending on the size of the vein to make the session less uncomfortable (some patients have low pain tolerance and even mild heat can cause great discomfort). If you are thinking about trying this session, you should discuss with your doctor how he or she should manage the pain or discomfort during the treatment. The next step is the actual procedure. The machine will now be calibrated depending on the size of your varicose veins. Using a thin tube (catheter) the radiofrequency energy will now be directed to the area. There is a small incision area in the area when the catheter will be inserted. Recovery time is usually short and patients will be able to walk right after the procedure.  Patients who are good candidates for this procedure should be.

• Anyone between 18 – 70 years old
• Fit for a general anesthetic
• Able to give informed consent
• Able to do follow up visits after the treatment

After Treatment Care

After the procedure, your doctor or practitioner will recommend you to wear compression stockings for a week or more. This, of course, will depend on how well you will recover. After a week or two, your doctor will then use a duplex ultrasound to make sure that the procedure was successful and the vein has closed.

Is this Procedure Safe?

As to all types of medical or cosmetic procedures, there are some possible side effects that patients should be aware of. Some of the possible side effects of radiofrequency ablation are.

• Skin burns
• Small or large blood clotting in the vein
• The feeling of pain, prickling after recovery or a burning sensation from nerve damage

How Much Does This Cost?

The cost of the procedure can range from $1000 – $3000. If you are looking into this procedure, it is important to have it done by a licensed doctor.