Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a gentle, thermal treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to heat the vein wall. It is highly effective for treating the Great Saphenous Vein and is known for producing very little post-operative bruising or discomfort.
The procedure is similar to laser ablation but uses a specialized catheter with a heating element at the tip.
Local anesthesia is applied to the leg to ensure the patient feels no heat or pain during the procedure.
An RFA catheter is guided into the target vein using ultrasound mapping.
The catheter heats the vein wall in 20-second cycles, ensuring the entire length of the diseased vessel is treated uniformly.
Once the vein is sealed, the catheter is removed, and the patient is encouraged to walk immediately.
RFA is an essential tool for patients prone to bruising. By eliminating venous reflux, RFA prevents the “heavy leg” feeling and reduces the risk of skin changes like eczema and thickening that occur when blood pools in the lower legs for too long.