Radio Frequency Vein Ablation is a minimally invasive procedure. The vein is closed using heat delivered by a catheter inserted through a small incision. The  procedure utilises radio frequency energy in 20 second bursts to provide controlled heat to contract the collagen in the vein walls, causing them to collapse and seal. Once a leg vein is closed, blood flow is redirected to healthy veins. For this procedure to be covered by your health insurance it must be performed in a hospital setting, not in a doctor's rooms.