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Endovenous RFA/Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins

Minimally invasive thermal ablation of incompetent saphenous veins using radiofrequency or laser energy delivered through a percutaneous catheter, providing definitive treatment for varicose veins under local tumescent anesthesia.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Radyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Endovenous RFA/Laser Treatment for Varicose Veins?

Endovenous thermal ablation (radiofrequency ablation [RFA] or endovenous laser ablation [EVLA/EVLT]) is the modern gold-standard minimally invasive treatment for venous insufficiency of the great saphenous vein (GSV) or small saphenous vein (SSV).

A catheter is inserted percutaneously under ultrasound guidance into the incompetent vein. After tumescent local anesthesia (dilute lidocaine with epinephrine surrounding the vein), thermal energy (RFA at 120°C or 1470 nm laser) is delivered to occlude the vein by collagen contraction and endothelial damage.

Procedure takes 30-60 minutes per leg, performed in office or outpatient setting under local anesthesia. Patients ambulate immediately, return to normal activities in 1-2 days, and wear graduated compression stockings for 1-2 weeks. Closure rates exceed 95% at 5-10 years.

Symptoms

Symptomatic varicose veins with leg pain, heaviness, swelling
Saphenous vein reflux on duplex ultrasound (>0.5 sec)
Skin changes (lipodermatosclerosis, hyperpigmentation, eczema)
Active or healed venous leg ulcer
Recurrent superficial thrombophlebitis
Bleeding from varicose veins
Failure of conservative therapy (compression, lifestyle)

Risk Factors

Family history of varicose veins or chronic venous disease
Female sex, multiple pregnancies
Prolonged standing occupation
Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
Prior deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Advancing age (>40 years)
Hormonal therapy (estrogen, oral contraceptives)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Symptomatic varicose veins affecting daily activity
  • Leg pain, heaviness, swelling worse with standing
  • Skin changes or pigmentation around ankle
  • Active or healed venous leg ulcer
  • Bleeding from varicose vein
  • Recurrent superficial thrombophlebitis
  • Failure of compression and lifestyle modifications after 3-6 months

Treatment Methods

01
Pre-procedure duplex ultrasound mapping of saphenous and tributary veins
02
Ultrasound-guided percutaneous catheter access to incompetent vein
03
Tumescent local anesthesia along entire vein course
04
Thermal ablation: RFA (ClosureFast 120°C, 20-second segments) or 1470 nm laser
05
Adjunctive ambulatory phlebectomy or sclerotherapy for tributaries
06
Graduated compression stockings (20-30 mmHg) for 1-2 weeks
07
Follow-up duplex ultrasound at 1-3 days, 1 month, and 1 year

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Radyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.