Mon – Fri: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
ENMon – Fri: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
ENMinimally invasive varicose vein treatment
Quick treatment overview
Minimally invasive, catheter-based thermal vein treatment
Certain refluxing superficial veins linked to varicose veins and venous insufficiency
Controlled radiofrequency energy closes the affected vein
Approximately 20–40 minutes, depending on the treatment plan
Understand the treatment
Radiofrequency ablation is an endovenous thermal treatment. “Endovenous” means the procedure takes place inside the vein, while “thermal” means it uses controlled heat.
During RFA, a vein specialist places a small catheter into a diseased superficial vein under ultrasound guidance. Radiofrequency energy treats the vein wall so the vein closes. Blood then redirects through healthier veins.
RFA generally targets an underlying refluxing vein rather than small spider veins alone. Remaining visible veins may require another treatment such as compounded sclerotherapy.
When RFA may help
Legs may feel tired, sore, heavy, or uncomfortable after standing or sitting.
Venous reflux may contribute to fluid collecting in the lower legs and ankles.
Enlarged surface veins may develop when pressure builds in the venous system.
Some patients report burning, throbbing, itching, or leg cramps.
Advanced venous disease may contribute to discoloration or skin irritation.
Chronic venous insufficiency can be associated with slow-healing wounds.
Personalized treatment selection
RFA is recommended only after a physician reviews your symptoms, medical history, vein anatomy, and ultrasound findings.
We review your vein symptoms, medical conditions, previous care, and medications to understand your individual needs.
A clinical examination helps evaluate visible veins, swelling, skin changes, and other signs related to venous disease.
Ultrasound imaging identifies reflux and reviews the vein’s size, shape, position, and possible treatment path.
Your physician explains whether RFA, Varithena®, compounded sclerotherapy, or another option fits your findings.
How RFA works
1
Ultrasound identifies reflux, the affected vein, and the treatment path.
2
The leg is prepared and local or tumescent anesthesia is administered.
3
A small catheter is positioned inside the affected vein under ultrasound guidance.
4
Controlled energy treats sections of the vein wall as the catheter is withdrawn.
5
The catheter is removed, and you receive walking and aftercare instructions.
Before, during & after treatment
Radiofrequency ablation is an outpatient procedure that typically takes approximately 20–40 minutes. Your care team will explain how to prepare, what you may feel, and the aftercare instructions that apply to your treatment plan.
Your care team reviews the plan, prepares the leg, and answers remaining questions.
The treatment area is numbed before the catheter-based procedure begins.
You receive walking and immediate aftercare instructions before leaving.
Temporary tenderness, tightness, or bruising may occur. Follow your care instructions.
Your provider explains when you may return to work, exercise, lifting, and other activities.
The care team reviews healing, symptoms, and whether remaining visible veins need additional care.
Choosing the right vein treatment
| Comparison | RFA / ClosureFast™ | VenaSeal™ | Varithena® | Compounded Sclerotherapy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Treatment type | Thermal, catheter-based | Nonthermal, catheter-based adhesive closure | Nonthermal medicated microfoam | Liquid or foam injection |
| How it works | Controlled radiofrequency energy closes the affected vein | Medical adhesive permanently closes an eligible refluxing vein | Microfoam fills and closes an eligible vein | A sclerosant is injected into the target vein |
| Possible role | Certain refluxing superficial veins | Eligible symptomatic superficial truncal veins | Eligible refluxing veins where microfoam is appropriate | Spider veins and small varicose veins at Elite Vein Clinic |
| Guidance | Ultrasound-guided catheter placement | Ultrasound-guided catheter placement | Selected according to the vein and treatment plan | May be used with or without ultrasound, depending on the target vein |
| Why it may be selected | Vein anatomy supports thermal catheter treatment | A nonthermal option that avoids heat and multiple tumescent injections | A nonthermal treatment is preferred or clinically appropriate | Smaller visible or superficial veins need injection treatment |
Insurance & benefits
Coverage depends on your plan, diagnosis, symptoms, ultrasound findings, medical-necessity criteria, and authorization requirements. Verification of benefits is not a guarantee of payment.
We review your symptoms and treatment needs.
Findings help document venous reflux and identify the affected veins.
We check coverage, documentation, and authorization requirements.
We explain the process and any estimated patient responsibility.
Why choose Elite Vein Clinic?
Your symptoms, vein anatomy, and ultrasound findings help determine whether RFA is appropriate.
Your evaluation and treatment plan are guided by clinicians experienced in venous disease and minimally invasive care.
RFA is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure performed through a small catheter.
You receive clear guidance about walking, activity, compression, and follow-up care.
YOUR VEIN CARE TEAM
Learn about the physicians and the Phoenix Valley locations they currently serve.
Board-Certified Internal Medicine
10+ Years of Clinical Experience
Locations served:
Avondale
Chandler
Gilbert
Mesa
Peoria
Phoenix
Scottsdale
Tempe
University of Miami Training
Minimally invasive vein care
Locations served:
Surprise
Ahwatukee Foothills
Cave Creek
Vein care you can trust
Phoenix Valley locations
Schedule a vein evaluation at a convenient Phoenix Valley location. Our team will help coordinate your consultation based on your treatment needs and preferred clinic.
COMMON RFA QUESTIONS
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