Why Do They Call Microphlebectomy 'Stab Plebectomy'?

Varicose veins may be an embarrassing and quite often painful venous condition to patients in Suffolk, Virginia and other areas of the country. The veins often appear as bulging and may be purplish in color, while the pain and heaviness may make patients feel very uncomfortable. Patients suffering from this condition have successfully overcome the condition through microphlebectomy, which is also called 'stab phlebectomy'.

The reason that microphlebectomy is also known as 'stab phlebectomy' is because of the manner of treatment. To perform this procedure, the vein specialist performing the treatment will mark the areas where incisions should be made along the problem veins for removal. Next, a local anesthetic is used to numb the area for patient comfort throughout the procedure. When the area has been numbed, the physician will proceed by making the tiny incisions, which are also called stabs, and a vein hook is used to remove the problem vein.

A dressing is placed over the treatment area following the procedure, which typically lasts between 30 and 45 minutes, although this may vary. Compression stockings or dressings should be worn for about a week after the procedure to help aid in healing. Patients are able to walk after the treatment, in fact daily walking is often recommended, but strenuous activities should be avoided for about a week. Most individuals are able to resume normal activities or return to work immediately following microphlebectomy, but patients should consult a Suffolk vein specialist for further information regarding their recovery schedule.

As is true of just about any medical procedure, there are certain risks that have been associated with microphlebectomy. These include temporary and mild discomfort or bruising for the days following treatment. Some individuals may experience injury to the tiny nerves just below the surface of the skin around the treatment area. The nerves usually heal with time, however.

The results following microphlebectomy are typically noticeable soon after the procedure is complete and they may continue to improve once the initial bruising resolves. Only tiny incisions are used so there is virtually no scarring associated with this treatment. As far as whether insurance will cover the cost of treatment, that often depends on the purpose of the treatment. When used to treat varicose veins that are a medical concern, insurance may cover the cost of treatment. If microphlebectomy is used for cosmetic purposes, insurance is unlikely to cover the cost of treatment.

Microphlebectomy may treat patients with spider veins or varicose veins that are close to the surface of the skin. Most individuals suffering from these venous conditions are considered candidates for treatment, although patients are encouraged to consult a specialist in the Suffolk area for further information and to determine if this procedure is right for them.

Learn more about microphlebectomy in Suffolk, Virginia. .