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Radiofrequency ablation is a safe and highly effective treatment for varicose veins. It is the newest alternative to the previous vein surgery known as “stripping” which was performed many years ago. This procedure is usually performed in a physician’s office, typically using a diluted local anesthesia. You can usually return to work the same day, with minimal post-procedure discomfort. Radiofrequency seals the vein shut causing the blood to reroute to deeper and healthier channels.
Symptoms improve quickly and many patients say they can see and/or feel relief in a matter of days. Minor bruising is normal and mild discomfort is common. The procedure usually lasts for about 20-30 minutes. You should plan the total appointment time being 1 hour. You can return to work the day of the procedure, unless otherwise instructed by your physician. Other activities, such as walking and light daily activities are possible and encouraged following the procedure. Patients are encouraged not to over-do-it for a couple of days, however being sedentary is discouraged.
Treatment with Radiofrequency for venous insufficiency is usually performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis. During the procedure, you will feel a small stick of a needle in order to numb the area. Through that numbed area, a small needle is inserted into the vein followed by a small guide wire, and a radiofrequency catheter. Once that is in place, you will experience a few needle sticks and some pressure while the numbing medicine is placed around your vein. Once you are numb, the fiber is activated while slowly pulled out. The energy from the device causes the vessel wall to be permanently closed allowing blood to flow in the proper direction. The vein is not removed from the body. Over time, your body will absorb the closed vein and it disappears. This procedure improves the circulation in the leg by ensuring that blood is traveling in the correct direction.
Most patients see effective, long-lasting results from this procedure. However, the number of treatments required varies depending upon the severity of the condition, and patients with larger veins typically require additional sessions.
After a Radiofrequency treatment, patients may experience slight redness and bruising in the treated area. These symptoms are usually mild and will go away on their own within a few days. The results of this procedure may be felt right away and will further improve gradually over the next few weeks.
Treatment with Radiofrequency is extremely successful in closing affected veins and enhancing the appearance of the legs through a less invasive procedure. More than 95% of patients are satisfied with the results of this procedure, and most results are permanent.
Contact our New Orleans Office:
One Galleria Boulevard
Suite 100
Metairie, Louisiana, 70001
Hours:
Mon – Thurs, 7:30AM – 5:00PM
Friday, 7:30AM – 12:00PM
Closed Daily for Lunch 12:00PM – 1:00PM
Contact our Baton Rouge Office:
10101 Siegen Ln
#3B
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70810
Hours:
Mon – Thurs, 7:30AM – 5:00PM
Friday, 7:30AM – 12:00PM
Closed Daily for Lunch 12:00PM – 1:00PM
Gitter Vein Institute invites you to experience a new type of medical environment. We commit our focus and expertise to earn your confidence and trust.