✦ RADIOFREQUENCY VEIN ABLATION

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Q: Is RFA better than laser?

Both are equally effective. The choice depends on vein anatomy, size, and patient factors. Some patients have less bruising with RFA. Dr. Tejasree selects the most suitable technique after Doppler mapping.

Q: Is the procedure painful?

RFA is performed under local anaesthesia and is well tolerated. Most patients feel only mild pressure and warmth, with minimal discomfort during the procedure.

Q: How long do I wear compression stockings?

Most patients wear compression stockings for 1–2 weeks after RFA. They reduce bruising, swelling and discomfort and help long-term results.

Q: When can I exercise again?

Light walking is encouraged immediately. Office work resumes in 24–48 hours, while gym, running and heavy weights are avoided for 2–3 weeks.

Modern radiofrequency-based varicose vein treatment — controlled heat energy is delivered through a thin catheter to close the affected vein from within, with minimal pain and quick recovery.

60–90 min PROCEDURE

Day Care HOSPITAL STAY

>95% SUCCESS RATE

24–48 hrs RETURN TO WORK

What is Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)?

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a modern, minimally invasive day-care treatment for varicose veins, very similar in approach to EVLA. A thin catheter delivering controlled radiofrequency energy is inserted into the diseased vein under ultrasound guidance, gently heating and sealing the vein from inside. Blood is naturally redirected through healthy veins. RFA offers excellent long-term outcomes equivalent to laser ablation, with minimal bruising and a comfortable recovery. Dr. Tejasree Vengala performs RFA at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad, for adults with symptomatic varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency.

Suitable for adults with symptomatic varicose veins, leg heaviness, swelling, skin changes, or venous ulcers, where Doppler ultrasound confirms truncal vein incompetence.

How the Procedure Works

Ultrasound Mapping & Anaesthesia

The diseased veins are mapped using Doppler ultrasound. Local tumescent anaesthesia is given along the vein course.

Catheter Insertion

A small needle puncture is made, and a thin RFA catheter is gently advanced into the diseased vein under ultrasound guidance.

Radiofrequency Energy Delivery

Controlled heat energy is delivered in segments as the catheter is slowly withdrawn, sealing the diseased vein along its length.

Treatment of Branches

Visible bulging surface veins are treated in the same sitting using ambulatory phlebectomy or foam sclerotherapy if needed.

Compression & Discharge

Compression stockings are applied. Patients walk within 30 minutes and are discharged the same day.

Outcomes

60–90 minDURATION

Day CareHOSPITAL STAY

>95%SUCCESS RATE

1–2 WeeksFULL RECOVERY

Who Needs This Treatment?

→Day-care procedure under local anaesthesia
→Equally effective alternative to laser ablation
→Less bruising compared to traditional vein stripping
→Patients walk within 30 minutes
→Return to office work in 24–48 hours
→Excellent long-term results with low recurrence

Radiofrequency ablation gives us another precise, gentle way to treat varicose veins from within. For the right patient, the choice between laser and RFA comes down to fine clinical detail — the principle is the same: close the diseased vein, redirect flow, restore the leg.

— — Dr. Tejasree Vengala, Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is RFA better than laser?+

Is the procedure painful?+

How long do I wear compression stockings?+

When can I exercise again?+

Not sure which treatment is right for you?

Book a consultation with Dr. Tejasree Vengala and get a personalised treatment plan.

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