Endovenous Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Endovenous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive treatment to remove varicose veins.

Varicose veins afflict 25 percent of adult Americans, and those problem veins can develop into serious health problems if left untreated. Thanks to cutting-edge technology and the expertise of Dr. Dmitry Gorelik, troubling veins can be obliterated for good. Call the Varicose Vein Center of New Jersey today to schedule an appointment at one of their convenient northern NJ locations: in Parsippany, Old Bridge and Sayreville. Endovenous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an effective treatment for eliminating swollen varicose veins. It’s a fast, minimally invasive and nearly painless procedure that removes these damaged and unwanted veins. The process uses radio wave energy to heat the inside wall of the varicose vein, which collapses it into itself. Your blood finds nearby healthy veins to use when the damaged vein is destroyed.

Vein Symptoms Signaling a Need for RFA Vein Ablation

If you’re like most women, you may feel self-conscious about visible veins, as it makes you look older than you are. But age isn’t the only cause; pregnancy can also make your veins swell. A family history of varicose veins and being overweight can also lead to the condition.

While some people don’t experience any noticeable symptoms from varicose veins, there are some telltale signs that you may recognize. Your NJ vein specialist may recommend radiofrequency ablation for varicose veins if you have any symptoms that include:

• Greenish-blue twisted or bulging veins
• Itchiness, bruising or a burning sensation
• Discoloration of the skin around the vein
• Painful, swollen veins that feel warm to the touch

Conditions Treated by Radiofrequency Ablation

When the valves within your veins start failing, your blood tends to pool. Stagnant blood increases the internal vein pressure, weakening vein walls. That combination — building pressure and weakened vein walls — causes the veins to enlarge and bulge. Endovenous radiofrequency ablation,

which is a similar procedure to laser ablation, can remedy common vein problems such as:

• Varicose veins. Discolored, enlarged and twisted veins are a common problem as you age.
• Venous insufficiency. A defective vein valve fails to keep the blood from flowing back toward your heart and leads to increased pressure on the vein wall. It may become so severe that blood begins to seep into the surrounding tissue.
• Venous stasis ulcer. A severe case of venous insufficiency, often appearing below your knee, can develop into a venous stasis ulcer. Blood leaking from a weakened vein creates a sore under the skin that may force its way onto your skin’s surface. It’s a chronic and often debilitating condition that requires medical attention from specialist like Dr. Gorelik.

Before Your Varicose Vein Treatment

During your initial consultation, Dr. Dmitry Gorelik performs a complete physical examination and learns about your health history. You need to inform him about any medications you’re taking, especially blood thinners. Don’t forget to mention your allergies, especially to latex or anesthesia. If your vein specialist confirms that you’re a good candidate for the RFA treatment, he gives you instructions on how to prepare for it. For example, you need to fast for eight hours. A good rule of thumb is to avoid consuming any food or drinks after midnight the night before your procedure.

The RFA Treatment for Varicose Veins

Endovenous radiofrequency ablation takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the treatment area. Stitches aren’t necessary afterward, only a simple bandage. If the vein treated is on your calf, Dr. Gorelik may instruct you to wear compression stockings for at least 14 days.

The RFA treatment requires a series of painless steps, including:

• Your vein specialist administers a local anesthetic.
• Using sound waves from the latest Doppler ultrasound equipment, he gets an image of your veins.
• After making a small incision, your doctor inserts a catheter electrode into your vein.
• He then uses the catheter to guide a RF fiber into the vein.
• The fiber emits high-frequency alternating radiofrequency waves. The heat of the radiofrequency cauterizes your damaged vein.
• Blood finds a new route in healthy veins, and the collapsed vein is eventually absorbed by your body and disappears from view.

After the RFA Vein Ablation

Immediately after the procedure, you’re encouraged to walk for 30 to 60 minutes. But you need a friend or family member to drive you home. Any irritation or bruising after the procedure heals quickly. While recovering, follow your doctor’s instructions as diligently as possible. Radiofrequency ablation for varicose veins recovery therapy involves:

• Applying ice every 15 minutes during the first day to reduce swelling
• Walking three times a day for 30 to 45 minutes
• Keeping your bandage dry for the first 48 hours to prevent an infection
• Avoiding bathing, especially hot baths, for one to two weeks
• Staying active and doing some moderate exercise
• Avoiding sitting or standing in the same place for a long time

While you can return to work the same day, Dr. Gorelik usually recommends that you take the rest of the day off. Discuss any questions or concerns you have about your RFA treatment for varicose veins with your vein specialist. Contact the Varicose Vein Center of New Jersey to schedule your appointment.