It’s been estimated that about 20% of all adults may eventually get varicose veins at some point in their lives, and for most people, these visibly enlarged veins are generally benign and unharmful. Sometimes, however, varicose veins can become painful and lead to more serious health issues, which is why our varicose vein treatment focuses on the elimination of this pain and patient comfort.
Our office specializes in the use of radiofrequency ablation to treat painful, inflamed varicose veins. Through the expertise of triple Board Certified Dr. Sammy A. Zakhary, MD, PC, this in-office treatment has been proven helpful in relieving varicose vein pain.
WHAT IS RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a medical procedure that uses radio waves to create a current that heats nerve tissue. This heat will destroy that area of the nerve, stopping it from sending pain signals to your brain, which is especially effective if varicose veins are causing you pain. RFA can provide lasting relief for people with chronic pain and is used to eliminate or minimize discomfort, improve function, reduce the need for pain medication, or avoid/delay the need for surgery.
WHAT CONDITIONS CAN BE TREATED WITH RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION?
While Dr. Zakhary specializes in the use of radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of varicose veins, RFA can also be used to treat chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, joint pain, back pain, cancer pain, facial pain, nerve pain, heart rhythm issues, and tumors.
WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION?
If you are experiencing chronic pain that hasn’t been responsive to other treatments such as pain medication or physical therapy, RFA treatment for pain relief may be right for you. If you and your providers have identified that a particular nerve is the source of your pain, this also proves as an efficient target for RFA treatment. You may not be a candidate for this procedure if you are pregnant. Dr. Zakhary is dedicated to communicating in-depth reasoning and details of candidacy to each patient.
WHAT IS THE RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION PROCEDURE LIKE?
The RFA treatment for varicose veins is a minimally invasive procedure where Dr. Zakhary inserts a catheter into the varicose vein. The catheter has a thin fiber that delivers radiofrequency energy into the vein. When delivered, the RF energy instantly converts to heat, and this damages the vein walls, causing them to collapse. This closes off the vein. The RF fiber is then pulled back to the next section of the vein and the process is repeated until the length of the vein has been closed off, eliminating nerve tissue, and relieving pain. This in-office treatment will take about one hour.
ARE THERE ANY RISKS WITH USING RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION TO TREAT VARICOSE VEINS?
Complications are very rare with RF ablation. There is a possibility of deep vein thrombosis/clotting. Nerve damage to surface sensory veins is possible, but these nerves usually return to normal in a few weeks to months.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
If you’re interested in learning more about our radiofrequency ablation treatment for varicose veins, please contact us for a consultation at (623) 258-3255 or contact us here. We will discuss your needs and concerns, and determine your best course of action.
