Radiofrequency Ablation Treatment
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins. Using controlled radiofrequency energy delivered through a thin catheter, RFA closes the unhealthy vein so blood can reroute through healthier veins.
At Vital Vein & Vascular, treatment is guided by ultrasound to help evaluate your veins and plan the appropriate treatment.
MINIMALLY INVASIVE
30-45 MIN SESSION
MINIMAL DOWNTIME
TRUSTED VASCULAR CARE
Trusted vascular care
the procedure
the radiofrequency ablation procedure
Steps Involved in RFA Treatment
The procedure begins with local anesthesia to numb the treatment area. Using ultrasound guidance, a thin catheter is inserted into the affected vein. Radiofrequency energy is then delivered through the catheter to heat and close the vein, allowing blood to reroute through healthier veins.
Duration and Recovery
RFA is typically performed as an outpatient procedure and usually takes about 30–60 minutes, depending on the veins being treated. Many patients can return to normal activities relatively quickly. Your provider will give you specific recovery instructions based on your treatment.
WHAT WE TREAT
radiofrequency ablation treatments
Vital Vein & Vascular offers personalized radiofrequency ablation treatments based on your condition, symptoms, and treatment goals.
RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION FOR VARICOSE VEINS
RFA is a minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins. Using controlled radiofrequency energy delivered through a thin catheter, RFA closes the affected vein so blood can reroute through healthier veins. Treatment may help relieve symptoms such as leg aching, swelling, and heaviness.
RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION FOR KNEE PAIN
RFA may be used to help manage chronic knee pain by targeting specific nerves that carry pain signals from the knee. The procedure uses radiofrequency energy to reduce pain signaling and may be considered for certain patients after other treatments have not provided sufficient relief.
RADIOFREQUENCY ABLATION FOR LEG VEINS
RFA uses a thin catheter inserted into the affected vein under ultrasound guidance. Controlled radiofrequency energy is delivered through the catheter to heat and close the vein, allowing blood to reroute through healthier veins. Treatment may help relieve symptoms such as leg aching, swelling, and heaviness.
Meet Your Surgeon
Dr. Christopher yi, MD
Board-Certified Vascular Surgeon · Founder, Vital Vein & Vascular
Dr. Christopher Yi founded Vital Vein & Vascular with a simple belief: patients deserve exceptional vascular care—and a clear understanding of their health.
As a board-certified vascular surgeon, Dr. Yi provides comprehensive care for conditions affecting the arteries and veins, from common circulation and vein concerns to complex vascular disease requiring advanced intervention or surgery. His experience spans both hospital-based vascular surgery and minimally invasive outpatient treatment, allowing him to evaluate each patient with the full range of treatment options in mind.
Dr. Yi believes the best treatment starts with the right diagnosis. He takes the time to explain what is happening, review treatment options clearly, and recommend what is medically appropriate for each patient—even when treatment isn't necessary.
That philosophy is at the heart of Vital Vein & Vascular: advanced vascular expertise, thoughtful treatment, and care patients can trust.
Board Certified
Vascular Surgery
Fellowship
Trained
California
Medical License
Member
SVS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is radiofrequency ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a minimally invasive medical procedure that uses heat generated by radiofrequency energy to target and destroy problematic tissue, such as nerves or veins. It is commonly used to treat varicose veins and chronic pain conditions, such as knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.
What is a radiofrequency ablation procedure?
The radiofrequency ablation procedure involves inserting a small catheter into the affected area, guided by ultrasound. Once in place, radiofrequency energy is applied through the catheter to heat and damage the targeted tissue, which helps alleviate pain or close off problematic veins. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia.
How much does a radiofrequency ablation cost?
The cost of radiofrequency ablation can vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the location of the treatment facility. On average, RFA procedures can range from $1,500 to $3,500 per treatment session. It’s recommended to check with your healthcare provider or insurance company for detailed pricing.
How many times can you have radiofrequency ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation can be repeated if necessary, especially for chronic conditions such as nerve pain or recurring varicose veins. Some patients may need a follow-up treatment after several months or years, depending on how well the initial procedure works.
What kind of anesthesia is used for radiofrequency ablation?
Typically, local anesthesia is used for radiofrequency ablation procedures to numb the treatment area. In some cases, mild sedation may be administered to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. General anesthesia is rarely required.
What is the next step if radiofrequency ablation doesn't work?
If radiofrequency ablation doesn’t provide the desired results, other treatment options may be considered. These can include additional RFA treatments, physical therapy, medications for pain management, or surgical interventions, depending on the condition being treated.
Is radiofrequency ablation painful?
Most patients experience little to no pain during the radiofrequency ablation procedure due to the use of local anesthesia. Some mild discomfort or soreness may be felt afterward, but this typically subsides within a few days.