Radio Frequency Ablation with Foam

‍

Consultation fee - £180

‍

You will have to wear stockings for 7 days and will not be able to drive for 24-48 hours following treatment.

‍

RFA ablation with foam refers to a combined treatment for varicose veins that uses both:

1. RFA (Radiofrequency Ablation) – a thermal technique, and
2. Foam Sclerotherapy – a chemical technique.

This combination is used to more effectively treat varicose veins, especially when multiple vein segments or tributaries are involved.

‍

1. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

• A minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to heat and seal off the main vein (typically the great or small saphenous vein).
• The vein is accessed with a small catheter, and once closed, blood reroutes to healthy veins.

‍

2. Foam Sclerotherapy

• After RFA, any remaining surface veins or tributary varicose veins are injected with a sclerosing foam.
• The foam causes those smaller or branching veins to collapse and be absorbed by the body.

‍

Why Combine RFA and Foam?

• RFA effectively closes the main refluxing vein, which is often the source of the problem.
• Foam sclerotherapy cleans up residual or visible veins that aren’t treated by RFA.
• The combo provides more complete cosmetic and medical results.

‍

Benefits:

• Less invasive than vein stripping surgery.
• Comprehensive – treats both deep and surface-level veins.
• Quick recovery – usually done under local anesthesia.
• Lower recurrence rates when both techniques are used together.

‍

Risks (generally low):

• Minor bruising, tightness, or soreness.
• Temporary skin changes or pigmentation.
• Rarely: nerve irritation, clot formation, or allergic reaction.