Varicose Vein Surgery

Surgery for varicose veins is only done today for the very large and extensive varicose veins. There are newer minimally invasive techniques available today which has reduced the need for surgery.

Surgery is generally limited to individuals who have extensive neglected varicose veins. These individuals have large thick varicose veins which are prominent and seen on the entire leg. Once the vein is damaged by numerous varicosities, it is basically rendered useless and has no more bodily function. Most such large varicose veins cause symptoms such as leg swelling, pain, ulcers and changes in skin color.

Surgery in these individuals offers the best and most effective treatment.

Vein stripping is the only method to remove the entire varicose vein. The procedure is done under general anesthesia and two small skin incisions are made. On incision is made near the ankle and the other is made near the groin. A special wire is passed from the ankle to the groin and the vein is pulled out. After surgery, a compression garment is worn for a few days to limit the swelling and bruising. The bruising usually subsides in a few weeks. When all the branches of the varicose veins in the groin are tied off, this procedure is associated with the least recurrence of varicose veins. Most individuals require about a week to recover.