Thermal / Radio Frequency Ablation
Thermal ablation with either laser or radiofrequency ablation is the best non-surgical method for treating the main veins that are causing visible varicose veins to develop.
| Procedure time | 60 minutes |
| Anaesthetic type | Local anaesthesia |
| Day case or overnight | Day case procedure in treatment room |
| Downtime/recovery | Normal activity can resume immediately |
No-one needs to have surgery for varicose veins anymore. Keyhole procedures deliver better results without the need for general anaesthetics when they are performed by experts.
For the majority of patients varicose veins are rarely a cause for significant medical concern. However, they are unsightly and can cause emotional distress, self-consciousness and social stigma. For others, symptoms of ache, itch and heaviness can become very troublesome. An unlucky few can develop eczema, skin damage and venous ulceration.
Thermal ablation with either laser or radiofrequency ablation is the best non-surgical method for treating the main veins that are causing visible varicose veins to develop. Using only local anaesthesia, a slim laser or radiofrequency fibre is passed along the main vein in the leg. Gentle heat then destroys the vein without the need of an old-fashioned surgical stripping operation. Foam sclerotherapy is then used to deal with varicose veins elsewhere in the leg.
Our surgeons are widely regarded experts in managing all types of varicose veins by keyhole means. Foam Sclerotherapy sessions are performed in the outpatient rooms and usually last around 30 minutes. Normal activity can be resumed immediately after treatment concludes. Compression stockings are worn for up to two weeks after treatment.
Final results take 2-3 months to develop. Follow up visits are scheduled in the weeks following treatment to ensure the best outcomes are obtained.
