Next week am undergoing endovenous radio frequency ablation closure procedure. drs say its minimal pain. how minimal? is it worse than an iv poke?

Closure: The local anesthetic burns going in and after that it should be minimally uncomfortable. The postoperative recovery includes quite a bit of soreness and bruising so be sure to follow the doctors instructions.

Pain should be minor: The pain from the procedure itself should be less than an IV placement. You will feel a slight sting and burn with the local anesthetic in several places, but otherwise it is usually very well tolerated. Pain after the procedure should also be minimal, and is usually along the lines of a pulled muscle sensation.

Well tolerated.: Endovenous ablation does involve several small needle sticks similar to inserting an iv. There is also some pressure felt when the local (tumescent anesthesia) is inserted. If the tumescent anesthesia is placed adequately then there should be no discomfort when the radio frequency is used. Post procedure you may feel some leg tightness for several days and you may have some bruising.