Radiofrequency Ablation Specialist

What is radiofrequency ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation uses an electrical current to heat up a vein and prevent it from leaking. It’s especially effective at closing truncal superficial veins, including the great saphenous vein, the small saphenous vein, and the accessory saphenous vein.

Radiofrequency ablation is quick and painless. One session takes 30-45 minutes. Following treatment, you need to avoid driving and other strenuous activities for at least 24 hours. The day after your procedure, you can return to work.

How does radiofrequency ablation work?

Heart & Vascular Center of North Houston performs radiofrequency ablation as an outpatient procedure. This means there’s no hospital stay and you can return home following your appointment.

At the beginning of treatment, your provider cleans and anesthetizes your skin using a solution of lidocaine with epinephrine and bicarbonate. Once the anesthesia sets in, your provider inserts a hollow needle into a vein and runs a small wire through it. After positioning the wire, your provider switches on an electrical current.

The electrical current heats the wire. This causes the treated vein to close, preventing further leakage. The heat also prevents nerve signals from reaching your brain, limiting pain and discomfort.

How does radiofrequency ablation improve my circulation?

Radiofrequency ablation improves your circulation by eliminating faulty or leaking veins. This allows your healthy veins to carry blood back to your heart.  

When your veins function as they should, you’re less likely to experience serious health problems like heart disease or peripheral artery disease (PAD).

Is radiofrequency ablation safe?

Radiofrequency ablation is safe and usually well-tolerated. You might feel some slight pressure during treatment, but this should subside as the anesthesia sets in. 

If you experience pain or discomfort at any time during your appointment, let your provider know. They can apply more numbing medicine to ensure your comfort.

What is recovery like following radiofrequency ablation?

Following radiofrequency ablation, your provider wraps your treated leg with a three-layer bandage. Make sure to keep the wrap on for at least 24 hours. The next morning, you can remove the wrap and shower. Afterward, you transition to compression stockings for about a week.

If you experience any pain or swelling in the days following your appointment, take an over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen. To lower your risk of complications during recovery, avoid strenuous exercise for at least seven days. 

To learn more about the benefits of radiofrequency ablation, call Heart & Vascular Center of North Houston or book a consultation online today.