ClosureFast
Radiofrequency ablation for varicose veins
Radiofrequency is an endovenous thermal ablation technique: it closes the diseased saphenous vein from the inside by applying controlled heat through a catheter. The European guideline recommends it, together with endovenous laser, as the first choice for treating saphenous reflux, ahead of conventional surgery.
Who is it for?
For patients with varicose veins or symptoms caused by reflux in the great or small saphenous vein, confirmed by duplex ultrasound, in whom the course of the vein allows the catheter to be inserted.
How it is done
- It is done as an outpatient procedure, under local anaesthesia.
- Under ultrasound guidance, the vein is punctured and a thin catheter is advanced to its origin.
- An anaesthetic solution is infiltrated around the vein (tumescent anaesthesia), which protects the surrounding tissues and compresses the vein.
- The catheter heats the vein wall segment by segment as it is withdrawn; the vein closes and over time the body reabsorbs it.
- Branch varicose veins can be treated at the same time or later, with microphlebectomy or foam.
Results
In the European multicentre study of the ClosureFast system, with 295 legs treated, the vein remained closed at 5 years in 91.9% of cases and symptom severity fell clearly and durably. Comparative trials show results similar to endovenous laser, with less pain and bruising than conventional surgery (stripping).
Recovery
- Walking from the same day.
- Mild discomfort in the first few days, usually controlled with ordinary painkillers.
- Quick return to activity and work, generally within a few days.
- Follow-up duplex ultrasound to confirm that the vein is closed.
Possible side effects
They are uncommon: bruising, hardening or pain along the vein, temporary changes in skin sensation and, rarely, a thrombosis extending into the deep vein, which is checked for at the ultrasound follow-up.
Videos on this topic (in Spanish)
References
- De Maeseneer MG, Kakkos SK, Aherne T, et al. European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) 2022 Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Chronic Venous Disease of the Lower Limbs. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg. 2022;63(2):184-267.
- Proebstle TM, Alm BJ, Göckeritz O, et al. Five-year results from the prospective European multicentre cohort study on radiofrequency segmental thermal ablation for incompetent great saphenous veins. Br J Surg. 2015;102(3):212-218.
Patient information reviewed by Dr Óscar Merino, vascular surgeon. It does not replace an individual medical assessment.
Would you like an assessment?
Consultation with duplex ultrasound at Clínica Rotger, in the centre of Palma.
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