Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy

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Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy

Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy

If you have varicose veins, there are several treatment options available to you here at BASS Vein Center. One of the options that many of our patients have had success with is Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy.

Radiofrequency Ablation works by using an electric current that is sent inside the affected vein. The current is delivered using a thin and flexible tube known as a catheter. The heat from the electric current damages the tissue and causes scar tissue to form. The scar tissue then closes the vein so that blood no longer gets caught inside. Over time, the vein goes away.

This form of treatment can be used on large veins in the leg and is performed in-office. A local anesthetic is used to help numb the area where the incision is made to insert the catheter. The patient can walk after the treatment and there is a short recovery time.

Radiofrequency Ablation Vein Treatment at the BASS Vein Center in Walnut Creek East Bay Area

How to Prepare for your Ablation Therapy Treatment

Before your treatment, you will need to carefully follow any instructions provided to you by your doctor. Make sure you tell the doctor the following before the appointment.

  • If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
  • If you are breastfeeding
  • If you smoke or drink alcohol regularly
  • If you are allergic to any type of medicine or have any intolerances to medication.

It is important to tell your doctor about any medication you are taking currently. That is because there may be certain medications that you should stop taking before the treatment. You should mention the following types of medication:

  • Any blood thinners (anticoagulants) that can thin your blood or prevent clots from forming
  • Any prescription drugs
  • Over the counter medication like ibuprofen or aspirin
  • Street drugs
  • Any herbs, vitamins, or dietary supplements

Do not stop taking any of your medication, especially prescription medication, unless you are told to do so before the procedure by one of our healthcare professionals. You should also speak with your prescribing doctor if you have concerns about stopping the medication.

Also, be sure to follow any directions about not eating or drinking before your appointment with us.

What to Expect the Day of Your Treatment

Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy generally takes between 45 and 60 minutes to complete the entire treatment session, which includes preparing and recovery, which will take between one to three hours. You will be able to go home the same day as your treatment.

During Your Treatment

At the beginning of your treatment, you will lie down on the bed and an ultrasound will be used to help guide the doctor during the procedure. The leg that is being treated will be injected with a local anesthetic to numb it. Once the leg is numb, the doctor will make a small puncture in the vein being treated using a needle. After that, the catheter that has the radiofrequency heat source is inserted into the vein.

Additional numbing medication may be inserted in the area around the vein to ensure you are not in any pain during the procedure. When the catheter is in the correct position, it is then gently pulled backward. As the catheter heats the vein during this time, the vein is closed off. Once the treatment is completed, the catheter is removed. Pressure will be applied to the insertion area to prevent any bleeding. Then a compression stocking or a bandage will be placed on your leg.

Contact Us About Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy

BASS Vein Center is the best choice for residents of the East Bay Area who need better treatment options for varicose veins and spider veins. Get in touch with us today if you live in Walnut Creek, Concord, Brentwood, Antioch, or any of the surrounding cities. We look forward to assisting you.

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What our patients are saying

"I highly recommend the BASS Vein Center, even if you must travel to see them. The staff at BASS show great concern, and spend ample time getting to know their patients as a person as well as their medical history. They provided an excellent treatment plan to help guarantee that I’d receive the best possible care!"

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