Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA)

Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) at Heart Vascular and Leg Center

At Heart Vascular and Leg Center, we offer Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA), a modern, minimally invasive treatment for chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins. This image-guided procedure uses controlled radiofrequency energy to gently heat and close problematic veins, redirecting blood flow to healthier vessels. RFA effectively relieves symptoms such as leg swelling, pain, heaviness, and skin discoloration—helping you regain comfort, confidence, and mobility without surgery.

Radio Frequency Ablation Procedure

At Heart Vascular and Leg Center, We prioritize your comfort, safety, and understanding throughout your RFA experience. Before your treatment, our skilled vascular team will walk you through the entire process. Here’s how you can prepare:

  • Share your complete medical history and current symptoms with your specialist.

  • Provide a list of all medications and supplements you take regularly.

  • Inform us about any allergies, especially to local anesthetics or adhesive materials.

  • Wear loose-fitting clothing on the day of the procedure.

  • Arrange transportation, as you’ll be advised to avoid driving immediately after treatment.

During the procedure, a catheter is inserted into the affected vein under ultrasound guidance. Radiofrequency energy is then applied to seal the vein, allowing blood to reroute through healthy veins. Most patients report little to no discomfort and can return home the same day.

Candidates for Radio Frequency Ablation

You may be a candidate for RFA if you experience symptoms related to venous insufficiency or varicose veins that interfere with daily life, including:

  • Persistent leg pain or heaviness
  • Visible, bulging varicose veins
  • Swelling in the lower legs or ankles
  • Leg fatigue or restlessness
  • Discoloration or thickening of the skin near the ankles
  • Ulcers or sores that are slow to heal

Our team will perform a thorough evaluation, including a duplex ultrasound, to determine if Radio Frequency Ablation is the best solution for you.

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Benefits of Radio Frequency Ablation Procedure

Radio Frequency Ablation is a highly effective treatment for varicose veins and venous reflux disease, offering lasting relief with minimal downtime. Key benefits include:

  • Minimally invasive with no stitches or visible scars

  • Outpatient procedure—no hospital stay required

  • Quick recovery and return to normal activities

  • High success rate and long-term symptom relief

  • Virtually pain-free with local anesthesia

  • Improved leg appearance and circulation

Schedule an Appointment

Book your appointment with Heart Vascular & Leg Center
today for personalized care and advanced treatment.

How is Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) Performed?

At Heart Vascular and Leg Center, our team of experienced vascular specialists performs Radio Frequency Ablation (RFA) using the latest technology and a gentle, patient-focused approach. Here’s what to expect during the procedure:

  • Local Anesthesia – The area around the affected vein is numbed with local anesthesia to ensure a comfortable experience.

  • Ultrasound Guidance – Using advanced ultrasound imaging, the physician identifies the damaged vein.

  • Catheter Insertion – A small catheter is inserted through a tiny incision, typically near the knee.

  • Radiofrequency Energy Delivery – Controlled heat is delivered through the catheter to the vein wall, causing the vein to seal shut.

  • Closure & Redirection – Blood is naturally rerouted to healthier veins, restoring proper circulation.

  • Minimal Recovery Time – The catheter is removed, and a bandage is applied—no stitches needed.

Radio Frequency Ablation Recovery Time

After your Radio Frequency Ablation procedure, you'll be monitored briefly before returning home the same day. Most patients experience minimal discomfort, with some reporting mild bruising or tightness along the treated vein. These symptoms are temporary and resolve quickly. You can typically resume regular daily activities within 24–48 hours. Walking is encouraged to promote healthy blood flow, but strenuous exercise and prolonged standing should be avoided for a few days.

What to Expect After Radio Frequency Ablation Procedure?

Following RFA, patients often experience immediate relief from symptoms such as leg heaviness, fatigue, swelling, or visible varicose veins. As blood flow is redirected to functioning veins, discomfort significantly decreases, and overall leg appearance improves. Compression stockings may be recommended for a short period to support healing.

Long-term success depends on maintaining vascular health. Your provider may recommend simple lifestyle adjustments, such as staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing. Regular follow-up visits help track your progress and prevent recurrence.

Why Choose Heart Vascular and Leg Center for Radio Frequency Ablation?

Heart Vascular and Leg Center is dedicated to providing advanced, minimally invasive Radio Frequency Ablation procedures to treat Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) effectively. Our experienced vascular specialists use state-of-the-art imaging technology to accurately diagnose and restore blood flow in your legs, reducing pain and improving mobility. With thousands of successful procedures performed, we prioritize your well-being through a safe, precise, and patient-centered approach. Our minimally invasive technique eliminates the need for major surgery, shortens recovery time, and minimizes risks—helping you regain comfort and quality of life quickly.

Our Providers

Dr. Vinod Kumar, MD, FACC

Dr. Newton Phuong, MD

Dr. Mark Le, MD

Dr. Massoud Arbabzedah, MD

Gerardo Murguia, PA-C

Elsita Mathew, FNP-C

Advanced Vascular Treatments, Trusted Care

5020 Commerce Drive
Bakersfield, CA 93309

Schedule an Appointment with Heart Vascular and Leg Center

Struggling with PAD symptoms? Our specialists at Heart Vascular and Leg Center are here to help. Schedule an appointment today to see if Radio Frequency Ablation is the right solution for you.

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Schedule an Appointment

Book your appointment with Heart Vascular & Leg Center
today for personalized care and advanced treatment.