When veins such as the great saphenous vein have incompetent valves and are dysfunctional, instead of the traditional surgeries such as vein stripping or ligation, thermal energy can be delivered through a thin fiber to eliminate them. This can be from a laser or a radiofrequency device. Dr. Attaran favors radiofrequency because it works very well but causes less bruising and discomfort.
Radiofrequency ablation is an outpatient procedure. Using local anesthetic and ultrasound guidance the small fiber is positioned inside the target vein and the treatment is delivered. The whole procedure typically takes 45 minutes. The treated leg is wrapped afterwards and most people drive themselves home.