Terri Ramsey Beavers Radiofrequency ablation, rhizotomy as it is also known, is a minimally invasive pain management treatment. During this procedure, a specialist will deliver radiofrequency waves to specific nerves to disrupt pain signals to the brain. It can provide lasting relief to people suffering from chronic pain, especially those with lower back and neck problems or arthritis joints. It can also treat malignant tumors and chronic venous insufficiency in the legs. If you experience pain from the facet joints or unsightly varicose veins that cause you pain, you may benefit from a radiofrequency ablation in Venice.
Radio Frequency Ablation For Varicose Veins
When used to treat varicose veins, radiofrequency ablation uses heat generated from radiofrequency waves. Varicose veins mainly affect legs and can come about when you damage the veins or valves in your legs. The veins may bulge or twist below your skin, causing cramping, swelling, and aching in the legs.
During a radiofrequency ablation for varicose veins, radiofrequency waves are delivered to the affected veins through a catheter to block blood flow to and from the affected vein.
Preparing For Treatment
Your doctor will provide specific instructions to follow during the procedure. However, you need to notify them beforehand if you:
- Are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
- Are breastfeeding.
- Take alcohol or smoke regularly.
- Have allergies or intolerance to specific medications.
If you are taking any medicines, you should tell your healthcare provider. They may direct you to stop taking some medications before the test. For instance, you may have to stay away from medicines that can prevent clotting or thinning your blood, prescription medicines, street drugs, herbs, and vitamin supplements.
The Day of Treatment
A radiofrequency ablation lasts about 45 to 60 minutes. The entire procedure, including the preparation and recovery time, takes an average of one to three hours. You do not need a hospital stay. During the treatment, a doctor will use an imaging method such as ultrasound to guide the procedure. They will then inject numbing medicine, after which they puncture the affected vein using a small needle. After inserting the catheter, it will send heat, closing off the vein slowly drawn back. It is removed after treatment and pressure applied to stop bleeding. You may need to put on a bandage or compression stocking.
Recovery
Your doctor will give you specific instructions to follow during recovery. Make sure you take all medications and care for the catheter insertion site as directed. Monitor the treatment location regularly for signs of infection such as fever, chest pain or difficulty breathing, numbness or tingling in the affected leg, and severe pain or swelling. Also, walk around several minutes each day and avoid air travel, whirlpools, saunas, and hot baths as directed.
In summary, radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive treatment used to treat different conditions such as varicose veins. Your doctor will give you specific instructions to follow before, during, and after the procedure. It lasts about 45 minutes to one hour. After treatment, look out for signs of infection and visit your doctor if you notice any.