A modern minimally invasive treatment that uses controlled radiofrequency energy to close diseased veins and support a faster, more comfortable recovery.
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive thermal treatment used to treat varicose veins. Instead of surgically removing the diseased vein, controlled heat is used to close it from within.
Ablation means using controlled energy to damage the targeted tissue so that scar tissue forms. This process causes the treated vein to close, allowing blood to naturally redirect through healthier veins.
The RFA technique uses radiofrequency energy rather than laser energy to heat and treat the inner wall of the affected vein. The treatment is performed through a thin catheter introduced through a very small opening in the skin.
Radiofrequency energy heats the vein wall to approximately 120°C, helping achieve controlled and consistent vein closure.
The catheter delivers energy directly to the vein wall. Tumescent anesthesia, external compression and leg elevation help collapse the vein around the catheter, improving treatment efficiency.
An integrated electrical feedback mechanism continuously regulates energy delivery to maintain a controlled temperature within the treated vein.
Following treatment, compression stockings are typically recommended for one week or longer, depending on your doctor's advice. A duplex ultrasound examination is then used to confirm successful closure of the treated vein.
Radiofrequency ablation focuses treatment precisely where it is needed while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue.
Modern radiofrequency treatment combines precise catheter placement with controlled thermal energy to treat problematic veins through a minimally invasive approach.
An advanced Radio Frequency Ablation system from Covidien/Medtronic, USA, designed for minimally invasive varicose vein treatment. The system delivers controlled thermal energy to the vein with precision, supporting effective closure and a faster recovery.
A guided catheterization technique provides accurate access to the affected vein and enables controlled delivery of radiofrequency energy. The minimally invasive approach helps reduce discomfort, scarring and recovery time.
Explore our educational videos to understand how radiofrequency ablation is performed, how the treatment works and what patients can expect.
What’s the right procedure for me?
There are several options for treating diseased veins. The most suitable treatment depends on the severity of your condition, your individual preferences and the expected clinical outcome.
Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) and Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) are two modern minimally invasive procedures performed under local anaesthesia.
Uses controlled radiofrequency energy to heat and close the diseased vein wall.
Uses laser energy delivered through an optical fibre to seal the affected vein.
Modern endovenous technologies are designed to minimise discomfort and support a quicker return to normal activity.
EVLT and Radiofrequency Ablation are both effective endovenous treatments. The primary difference is the type of energy used to close the diseased vein.
No single procedure is ideal for every patient. Treatment selection is individualised by the treating specialist after assessing the veins, symptoms and overall clinical requirements.
Dr. Shoaib Padaria has over 23+ years of experience in treating vascular diseases and more than 17 years of experience in endovenous therapies.
He performed India’s first documented Endovenous Laser procedure for varicose veins on 6th January 2003 at Jaslok Hospital.
To date, he has successfully completed 25,000+ endovenous procedures and actively contributes to national and international teaching programmes.
Explore selected RFA case studies showing how minimally invasive treatment can improve symptoms, reduce varicosities and support healing.
BEFORE
AFTER69 years old male patient Mr. LL presented with pain & swelling for many years which gradually developed into a non-healing ulcer for 1 year in the right leg. Venous Doppler revealed S-F junction incompetence with refluxing GSV, SSV & superficial varicosities. Treated using Endovenous RFA & Sclerotherapy followed by regular dressing. The ulcer healed well and varicosities disappeared within a month.
BEFORE
AFTER53 years old housewife Mrs. R J presented with pain, swelling, burning sensation, night cramps, and large varicosities in the left leg for 10 years. Doppler study showed S-F junction incompetence with refluxing GSV. Endovenous RFA ablated the GSV while large varicosities were removed via micro-phlebectomy. Symptoms resolved and veins disappeared within a month.
BEFORE
AFTER47 years old male patient Mr. PJ, whose work required standing 8–10 hours daily, presented with right leg pain and ankle pigmentation for 3 years. Doppler revealed refluxing GSV, superficial varicosities, and incompetent perforators. Treated with RFA, foam sclerotherapy, and laser closure. Varicosities disappeared within a month.
