Ambulatory Phlebectomy: An Alternative To Vein Stripping Surgery

Updated on: August 18, 2014

For patients suffering from varicose veins in the Sioux City and Dakota Dunes, South Dakota area, finding effective relief is often extremely important. Varicose veins may cause discomfort, pain, aches and heaviness in the legs. The bulgy appearance of this condition may also be a source of great embarrassment for some patients. Through innovative and proven treatments, many vein specialists have allowed patients to find relief from this condition in a healthy and safe manner.

Those suffering from large superficial varicose veins may be treated with an ambulatory phlebectomy procedure. This procedure has been used as an alternative to invasive varicose vein surgery, which may require significant downtime and recovery. Most patients who undergo a minimally invasive ambulatory phlebectomy are able to return to work within 1 to 3 days. Compression stockings may be worn for 1 to 3 weeks following treatment to aid in healthy healing.

To help rid the treated area of excess fluids, to reduce the risk of blood clots and to further aid in healing, patients may be encouraged to walk often following the procedure. The contraction of the surrounding muscles is often helpful in a healthy healing process. Patients may be advised to avoid standing for a prolonged period of time and to avoid heavy lifting following the procedure. More specific recovery guidelines may be obtained from the physician performing the procedure.

In performing ambulatory phlebectomy, the patient will be required to stand up so that the physician may mark the varicose veins. The patient then lies on his or her back and an anesthetic is injected along the veins being treated. Tiny incisions are then made along the vein, which is then removed using vein hooks. No stitches are required to close up the incisions made, as they are so small that they do not require them. Pads are then put in place to absorb excess fluids and the leg is bandaged up.

Before undergoing any procedure, patients should speak with a medical professional about its possible risks. The risks associated with ambulatory phlebectomy most commonly include infection and bleeding. Infections, however, are much less common due to the small incisions made in this procedure compared to the incisions that may be required for other procedures such as vein stripping. Other possible risks or side effects include discoloration of the surrounding skin, numbness and tingling.

It is possible that varicose veins recur following any treatment. This is especially true if the factors that caused these problem veins in the first place persist following treatment. Patients should speak with a medical professional for more information about the recurrence of varicose veins.

In Dakota Dunes and Sioux City, many patients have been successfully treated using ambulatory phlebectomy and other venous treatments. Due to the limited use of anesthesia and the tiny incisions required, this procedure attracts many patients. Its minimal recovery time and the minimally invasive nature of the procedure compared with other surgical procedures is also attractive to those facing treatment. For more information about this or other treatments, patients should consult a knowledgeable physician.

Learn more about amublatory phlebectomy in Dakota Dunes and Sioux City, South Dakota.

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