Phlebectomy - 1

Do you have unsightly varicose veins? As you age you may become disheartened as the veins in your leg bulge and become very unattractive, but there is a procedure called a phlebectomy that can rid you of these monstrosities.

Varicose Veins

Large, bulging veins close to the skin's surface are often found in the lower legs and feet and are called varicose. Because we walk, stand and run on our feet, veins in our lower legs and feet receive quite a bit of blood pressure. Varicose veins can be more than a cosmetic concern since they impede blood flow and hinder the return of oxygen-depleted blood from the lower legs and back to the heart and lungs. The usual cause for this is damaged valves within the veins that allow backward blood flow and pooling of blood resulting in enlarged veins. Untreated veins can lead to serious medical conditions with associated pain, inflammation and discoloration.

The Procedure

Ambulatory phlebectomy - small incisions or needle punctures are used to extract the problematic veins with a phlebectomy hook. A hook is inserted into a micro-incision in the leg. A section of the vein is hooked and then removed through the incision. With this procedure, a compression bandage is worn for two weeks. This minimizes swelling and discomfort and allows for proper healing.

Following Surgery

After the vein is removed, your leg will be wrapped with an ace bandage and you will be able to get up and walk around before you go home. The ace bandage will be removed and you will wear a support stocking for two weeks after surgery. Most people don't experience any discomfort at all and need no pain medication. You can stand and walk and return to work on the day following surgery. Strenuous activity is limited for two weeks.

Compared to traditional vein stripping, this procedure has virtually no scarring or side effects. And because it is performed in your doctor's office, minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia, you will experience very little down time and virtually no problems after the procedure. Skin pigmentation at the site of the varicose vein can occur and is usually temporary.

Long-term results after phlebectomy are excellent when the procedure is performed for the appropriate indications.