Radiofrequency occlusion is a process that utilizes a thin catheter that is placed into your vein through a tiny incision, and your surgeon uses an ultrasound to guide him or her through the opening. The catheter uses radiofrequency energy to hit the wall of the targeted vein. Once the catheter is taken out, the treated vein is heated and sealed shut. This process is fast and pain free. You should be able to return to work as well as all of your normal activities in just a few days.
The tip can warm up the vein to 185º (85ºc), forcing it to close and become an inner scar. Once this process occurs the body naturally discards the scarred tissue over time. Patients require general anesthetic. The treatment is very successful at permanently removing problem veins.