RF Ablation

The purpose of RF Ablation is to collapse damaged veins so that blood flows into functional veins. Our doctors accomplish this by directing radiofrequency energy into the vein to shrink the collagen in the venous walls. This prompts the varicose vein to close, thereby redirecting blood away from the faulty vein.

Our physicians start by locating the vein with ultrasound technology. We then cleanse and numb the injection point on your leg with a local anesthetic. Next, we insert a tiny catheter into the vein, using ultrasound guidance for precise placement.

Through the catheter, we administer tumescent anesthesia around the exterior of the vein. This medicated fluid numbs and insulates the surrounding tissue from radiofrequency and helps the vein collapse onto the catheter.

Radiofrequency ablation has a 98% success rate at our California vein treatment clinic and takes just 15-30 minutes. The results are permanent. Once the vein is closed, it’s harmlessly reabsorbed by the body and accumulated blood travels into veins with functional valves.

If you have symptoms of venous insufficiency (cramping, swelling, heaviness, itchiness, and varicosities), talk to our doctors about RFA. This treatment is often covered by insurance and is less painful and invasive than laser ablation or surgery. It requires no downtime, so you can resume your regular activities immediately.