Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) – Frequently Asked Questions

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins by delivering heat energy through a catheter to seal off the underlying diseased truncal vein, such as the long saphenous vein. By closing this faulty vein, blood is naturally rerouted to healthier veins, improving circulation and alleviating symptoms like leg pain, heaviness, and swelling.

RFA uses thermal energy (radiofrequency energy) to gently heat the inner walls of the diseased vein, causing it to collapse and seal shut. Over time, the body naturally absorbs the closed vein, and blood reroutes to healthy veins for better circulation

RFA is primarily used to treat any condition with underlying venous reflux, such as varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency (CVI).

You may be a good candidate if you experience symptoms like:

✔ Leg pain, aching, or heaviness
✔ Swelling or discomfort after standing for long periods
✔ Visible varicose veins
✔ Skin changes or venous ulcers

Prior to any treatment, a vascular specialist will first assess your condition to determine if RFA is a suitable treatment option.

• Minimally invasive – No large incisions required
• Fast recovery – Patients can usually resume normal activities within a day
• High success rate – Effective in closing diseased veins
• Less pain and bruising – Compared to traditional vein stripping surgery

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a quick, minimally invasive procedure, typically performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on patient preference.

Step 1: A small incision is made (generally around the level of knee or ankle), and a thin catheter is inserted into the diseased vein.
Step 2: Using ultrasound guidance, the catheter is carefully guided up this vein to the groin. This ensures precise positioning.

Step 3:  A fluid mixture containing diluted local anesthetic, known as tumescent anesthesia, is then infused around the vein to provide additional pain relief and safeguard surrounding tissues.
Step 4: Radiofrequency energy is applied through the catheter, gently heating the vein walls so that they collapse and seal shut, eliminating the backward flow of blood in the treated vein.
Step 5: Once the vein is treated, the catheter is removed, and the incision is covered with a small bandage—stitches are usually not needed. No implants or foreign materials are left behind in the vein.

The procedure itself generally takes between 30 and 60 minutes, and additional treatments (such as removing bulging varicose veins or treating spider veins) can sometimes be performed during the same session It is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning most patients can go home the same day and return to normal activities quickly.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure due to the use of local anesthesia. Some may feel mild pressure or heat but not significant pain.

• Patients can walk immediately after the procedure.
• Compression stockings are recommended for 1-2 weeks to aid healing.
• Mild bruising or tightness in the treated area may occur but usually resolves quickly.
• Overtly strenuous activities should be avoided for about a week.

RFA is considered safe and effective, but like any medical procedure, there is a small potential for risks. These include:

• Mild bruising or swelling
• Numbness or tingling (usually temporary)
• Rare complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), skin burns, or nerve injury.

If you’re considering treatment for your varicose veins, we’re here to help.

📍 Visit: Novena Vascular & Varicose Vein Centre. 38 Irrawaddy Rd, #08-48, Singapore 329563
📞 Call or drop a message on WhatsApp: (+65) 9727-0788
📧 Email: contact@drdarryllim.com
🌐 Website: https://drdarryllim.com