Lincoln Vein Clinic
Modern Vein Treatment
Radiofrequency ablation
Radiofrequency Ablation
The radiofrequency ablation procedure is also known as Venefit. It was previously known as VNUS Closure. It is a minimally invasive treatment alternative with less pain and less bruising when compared to traditional vein stripping surgery and laser treatment. Using the Closure system, the diseased veins are treated by inserting the Closure catheter into a vein and heating the vein wall using temperature-controlled RF energy. Heating the vein wall causes collagen in the wall to shrink and the vein to close. After the vein is sealed shut, blood then naturally reroutes to healthy veins.
This procedure is performed under a local anaesthetic. A plastic cannula is inserted into the vein to be treated under ultrasound control. The radiofrequency catheter is then passed up the vein under ultrasound control. Once the catheter is in the correct position further local anaesthetic is injected around the vein. The catheter is then connected to the radiofrequency machine and the vein heated to 120 degrees celsius.
There is a limit to the volume of local anaesthetic that can be used at one procedure. Therefore if both legs need to be treated these can either be done on separate occasions or the procedure can be performed using a general anaesthetic.