The treatment involves heating and closing the vein from within, using radiofrequency energy. This is usually performed whilst you are awake under local anaesthetic on a walk-in walk out basis, although it can also be performed under general anaesthetic. This technique works very similarly to Laser (EVLA) and is recognised by NICE as being equivalent. There are a few technical differences between the 2 techniques, but they are essentially very similar. The RFA device is slightly larger than a laser so it is placed through a small device called and angio sheath, but patient may experience less post operative pain than laser. Because of its size only straighter veins such as the long saphenous vein or short saphenous vein are suitable. RFA is only suitable to treat veins up to 12mm in diameter. Your consultant will discuss the options with you at your consultation.
Before the procedure the consultant will use an ultrasound machine to scan and mark the position of the end of the vein in the groin. You will then enter the treatment room or operating theatre and local anaesthetic injected. A special catheter is then inserted into the vein through a small 2-3mm cut just below the knee.
Once positioned, radiofrequency energy is gently delivered to seal and shut the faulty vein. A small dressing is applied, along with a special compression stocking which you will need to wear for the next 7 to 10 days. Following this procedure most people have an instant relief of symptoms.
The procedure generally takes around 30 – 40 minutes, and following this you will normally be free to leave after in as little as an hour. Your consultant will discuss this with you at your consultation.
RFA like EVLA is one of the safest treatments available for varicose veins, serious complications are extremely rare:
Thrombophlebitis: You may feel the vein that has been treated become hard and tender. Varicose veins that feed from the treated vein may also become hard and lumpy as part of the healing process. The phlebitis will resolve over a few weeks.
Nerve damage: As nerves can lie alongside the veins these may also become damaged by the heat or by Phlebectomies and a few patients notice small patches of numbness on their skin. These usually resolve over a few months.
Burns: Although it is possible to burn the skin with the laser in practice this is very rare indeed.
DVT: A DVT is a blood clot in the deep veins in the leg. It is a recognised complication of surgery and can be dangerous if the clot breaks away and travels to the lungs. The risk of getting a DVT after RFA is less than 1 in 200 for most people.
You must have a medical or psychological necessity to be eligible for plastic or reconstructive surgery at one of our Ramsay hospitals. Your consultant will guide you through a thorough assessment process. If needed, our multi-disciplinary team, potentially including a psychologist and / or other specialists, will review your case to confirm the medical necessity of your treatment.
Rob Windhaber is a vascular surgeon who specialises in the treatment of varicose veins, leg thread veins, facial thread veins and their related conditions. He has over 15 years experience in treating these conditions using minimally invasive techniques.
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Clifton Park Hospital is proud to announce that we have achieved Silver Accreditation in the ANTT® (Aseptic Non Touch Technique) Patient Protection Accreditation Programme for Healthcare Providers. This prestigious recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering safe, high-quality care and maintaining excellence in infection prevention.
Woodthorpe Hospital, part of Ramsay Health Care UK, was delighted to welcome Michael Payne, Labour Member of Parliament for Gedling, for a tour of the hospital and the opportunity to meet with staff across a number of departments.
Mr. Simon Boyle, a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Clifton Park Hospital specialising in shoulder and elbow procedures, has successfully completed the formidable Marathon des Sables, often referred to as the "Marathon of the Sands." Now in its 39th year, this legendary ultramarathon spans approximately 257 km (160 miles) across the Sahara Desert in southern Morocco and is widely regarded as one of the most gruelling endurance challenges in the world.
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