Overview
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat to reduce the pain caused by varicose veins.
This blog will have a detailed discussion about RFA treatment and the side effects it may cause.
Summary
- Radiofrequency ablation is a medical procedure to provide pain relief to the patient with varicose veins. It utilizes an electric current produced by radiofrequency waves to operate.
- RFA can effectively treat a broad range of conditions related to joints and veins. These conditions include arthritis, chronic venous insufficiency, cardiac arrhythmia, and sacroiliac joint pain.
- Patients may experience burning, weakness, swelling, or numbness at the injection site following the RFA.
- It is highly recommended not to engage in any strenuous activity for the first 24 hours after the radiofrequency ablation.
- The pain relief resulting from the RFA procedure can last from 6 to 12 months.
What Is Radiofrequency Ablation?
RFA is a minimally invasive procedure for reducing pain caused by varicose veins. Radiofrequency waves produce an electric current to heat the affected nerve tissues. This method is for easing the pain caused by the nerves.
Usually, the pain relief resulting from RFA can last from 6 to 12 months. But in some cases, this relief may last for several years depending upon the severity of the condition the patient is experiencing. Approximately 70% of the patients have reported success with their pain relief from this procedure.
Which Conditions Can be Treated With Radiofrequency Ablation?
Radiofrequency ablation therapy is a minimally invasive technique for relieving chronic pain symptoms. It is also helpful for shrinking the size of tumors. RFA can effectively treat a broad range of conditions that may include:
- Arthritis pain
- Sacroiliac joint pain
- Neck pain
- Bone, lung, liver, and kidney tumors
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
- Cardiac arrhythmia
- Varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency
- Lower back pain
Common Radiofrequency Ablation Side Effects
Radiofrequency ablation is an effective technique that is considered to be safe with low associated risk. But, there are some chances that a patient may experience some side effects and complications later. Usually, people feel burning, weakness, swelling, or numbness at the injection site after the RFA. A patient may also have small or large clots of blood in the vein following radiofrequency ablation therapy. Some of the other common side effects may include:
- Infection at the injection site
- Bleeding
- Nerve damage
- Motor deficits
- Paralysis
- Mild headaches or dizziness
- Muscle weakness
- Severe pain
Your specialist will provide you with a complete list of signs and symptoms to observe. Patients are recommended to take plenty of rest to manage the side effects. They can also utilize an ice pack over the affected area or use topical and oral medications to decrease inflammation. The symptoms are usually not severe, but the pain can become troublesome as it may last for several weeks. If you are getting treatment from an experienced vein expert, the risk of having these side effects will be less. If you feel any signs, contact your healthcare immediately.
What are the Restrictions After Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy?
You may head back to your daily routine activities with a few restrictions after having radiofrequency ablation:
- Avoid driving or operating any heavy machinery for at least 24 hours after the RFA treatment.
- Avoid engaging yourself in any strenuous activity for the first 24 hours after the procedure has been performed.
- Do not take a bath for at least one to two days after the radiofrequency ablation procedure.
How Long Will it Take for the RFA Procedure to Work?
You will feel a notable improvement in pain as the nerves start healing after the RFA treatment. For complete relief, it will take around two weeks but can also take up to four weeks. But, this pain relief usually lasts for about six months to a year.
At CMW, our team of experts offers effective and reliable radiofrequency ablation therapy after thoroughly analyzing your symptoms. Schedule an appointment at CMW with our Board-Certified Specialists and alleviate your pain today.