By: RS Abdi Waluyo
Varicose veins can involve more than visible, bulging veins. Aching, heaviness, swelling, and itching may also affect everyday comfort. For some people, these symptoms make prolonged standing, working, and daily activities more difficult.
Abdi Waluyo Hospital offers Radiofrequency Ablation, or RFA, a minimally invasive procedure that treats faulty veins in suitable patients. A medical assessment is the first step towards understanding your symptoms and choosing appropriate care.
What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins, most commonly found in the legs. Veins carry blood back towards the heart, while small valves help keep it moving in the correct direction.
When these valves do not work properly, some blood can flow backwards, known as reflux. This increases pressure within the veins and may lead to varicose veins.
Assessment considers symptoms, skin changes, and blood flow rather than appearance alone.[1]
How Does RFA Work?
RFA uses heat generated by radiofrequency energy to close a faulty vein. The doctor guides a thin catheter into the vein through a small skin entry point using ultrasound.
Blood is then redirected through other healthy veins. The procedure usually uses local anaesthesia and avoids the larger incisions associated with conventional vein-removal surgery.[2]
Who May Be Suitable for RFA?
A duplex ultrasound scan allows the doctor to examine the veins, assess blood flow, and identify the source of reflux.
RFA is a recommended option for suitable patients with varicose veins and reflux in a main superficial vein.
Depending on the findings, alternatives may include foam sclerotherapy or surgery. The choice depends on the condition of the veins and the patient’s individual needs.[1]
Recovery and Expected Results
Many patients can walk and return home on the day of treatment after medical assessment. Your doctor will provide individual advice on activity, wound care, and compression stockings.
RFA aims to relieve symptoms caused by varicose veins. Changes in appearance develop gradually, and some remaining visible veins may require additional treatment.[2]
Are There Any Risks?
As with any medical procedure, RFA carries risks. These include soreness, bruising, inflammation around the treated vein, and numbness. Blood clots in the deep veins are uncommon but important potential complications.
Varicose veins can also recur. Follow-up and adherence to your doctor’s instructions remain important.[2]
Discuss Your Options at Abdi Waluyo Hospital
Understanding your vein condition can help you make a more confident treatment decision. During your consultation, discuss your symptoms, previous treatments, current medicines, and any questions you may have.
Consult the medical team at Abdi Waluyo Hospital to find out whether RFA is suitable for your varicose veins.
(FAQ)
1. Can every varicose vein be treated with RFA?
No. Suitability depends on medical assessment and duplex ultrasound findings. The size, shape, and pattern of abnormal blood flow are important considerations.[1,2]
2. Will I need general anaesthesia?
Local anaesthesia is usually used. However, anaesthetic requirements vary according to the patient’s condition and treatment plan.[2]
3. Will closing a vein affect circulation?
In appropriately assessed patients, closing the faulty vein redirects blood through other healthy veins.[2]
4. Will the visible veins disappear immediately?
Not necessarily. Changes develop gradually, and some remaining veins may need additional treatment.[2]
5. Will I need to stay overnight?
Many patients can return home on the same day. This depends on their condition and the doctor’s assessment.[2]
6. Can varicose veins return?
Yes. RFA treats the targeted vein but cannot guarantee that varicose veins will never recur.[2]
7. How can I arrange an assessment?
Book a consultation at Abdi Waluyo Hospital. If available, bring previous ultrasound reports or examination results and a list of your current medicines.
References
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Varicose veins: diagnosis and management. Clinical guideline CG168 [Internet]. London: NICE; 2013 Jul 24 [cited 2026 Oct 17]. Available from: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg168
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Patient information on VNUS closure (radiofrequency ablation of varicose veins) [Internet]. Cambridge: CUH; 2026 Jan 9 [cited 2026 Oct 17]. Available from: https://www.cuh.nhs.uk/patient-information/patient-information-on-vnus-closure-radiofrequency-ablation-of-varicose-veins/
