Pain During Heat Treatment for Lower Extremity Varicose Veins: Radiofrequency vs. Microwave

Authors
Category Primary study
Registry of TrialsClinicalTrials.gov
Year 2026
This study compares two common heat-based procedures for treating varicose veins in the legs: radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA). Both treatments use heat to close off diseased veins, but they work differently-RFA heats through direct contact, while MWA uses microwave energy that spreads heat more widely. The main question is: Which procedure causes less pain during the surgery? Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either RFA or MWA. Since the surgery is done under local anesthesia (not general anesthesia), patients remain awake throughout. We will measure their pain at four key moments: When the needle is first inserted Right after injecting the numbing fluid (tumescent anesthesia) During the heat treatment itself At the end of the entire procedure We will also track how much numbing fluid is used, how long the procedure takes, and any side effects. Patients will be followed for 30 days after surgery to monitor recovery and satisfaction. The goal is to find out whether one method is more comfortable for patients, and to identify which factors (such as age, vein size, or anxiety level) affect pain during each procedure. This will help doctors choose the best approach for each patient and improve the overall treatment experience.
Epistemonikos ID: 864191c8db1783aa35c3bd787f8fa2b322555c59
First added on: Oct 31, 2026