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Radiofrequency ablation, sometimes referred to as Venefit or VNUS Closure, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequencies to heat and seal veins. The sealed off vein eventually disintegrates and disappears and the blood is re-routed to other nearby veins.
Your doctor may order a pre-procedural ultrasound to ensure your suitability for the procedure. During the process a catheter is inserted into the affected vein through a small incision made in the groin area. Radiofrequency energy is delivered through the catheter into the vein wall, heating it up and causing it to seal shut. The procedure can be performed at your local Vein Center in Long Island, with the use of a local anesthetic, unlike vein stripping that requires the use of a general anesthetic in an operating room.
The recovery time is relatively short and most healthy patients can return to their daily activities the following day. Since only a small incision is made rather than a complete groin surgery as in vein stripping, the radiofrequency ablation procedure is associated with minimal bruising and pain.
The procedure itself takes between 45-60 minutes, and you can expect to spend around 3 hours at your vein clinic in Long Island as you are prepared for the procedure and you recover. Your Long Island heart doctor may advice you to walk regularly, avoid standing for prolonged periods of time and avoid strenuous activities such as heavy lifting. Most patients notice an improvement in their symptoms within 2 weeks of the procedure.
While radiofrequency ablation is a relatively safe procedure, it is useful to know some of the rare complications involved with the procedure. The most serious side effect of radiofrequency ablation is deep vein thrombosis. Other complications include cellulitis/infection, skin burn, mild bruising and/or pain and some loss of blood.
