How Can Microphlebectomy Treat Varicose Veins?

Updated on: August 18, 2014

A microphlebectomy is a procedure that has brought relief to individuals in Sugarland, Texas or other parts of the country who are suffering from varicose veins. Some may choose to refer to microphlebectomy as 'stab phlebectomy' because of the stabs, or incisions, used during the procedure. Don't let the name fool you though, the procedure is actually quite safe. Possible risks of microphlebectomy include temporary and mild discomfort or bruising that may last for a couple of days after the procedure around the treatment site. Some also experience minor injury to the tiny nerves that are located just under the skin around the treatment area. The nerves typically heal over time.

Microphlebectomy is minimally-invasive, requires a local anesthetic rather than a general anesthetic, and may be used along with sclerotherapy when treating deeper veins. There is also little to no downtime associated with microphlebectomy and most individuals are allowed to return to work and resume their other normal activities immediately after the procedure. It is important to discuss recovery instructions and guidelines with a vein specialist in the Sugarland area, however. Daily walking is also recommended after microphlebectomy in many cases, but individuals should avoid strenuous activities for five to seven days. For about a week after the procedure, patients may be encouraged to wear compression stockings or dressings to aid in the healing process.

To perform this procedure, the vein specialist will first mark the area that is to be treated so he or she may determine where to make the tiny openings, or stabs. The treatment area is then numbed using a local anesthetic and once the area is numbed, the specialist makes a few tiny incisions along the vein. A tiny hook is used to grab the vein for removal. Upon the completion of the procedure, a dressing is placed on the site. Microphlebectomy procedures typically take about 30 to 45 minutes to perform, although this may vary from one patient to the next.

Before the procedure, individuals interested in microphlebectomy are encouraged to discuss their candidacy for the procedure with a vein specialist in the Sugarland area. Most men or women with unsightly spider veins or varicose veins near the surface of the skin may be considered a potential candidate for microphlebectomy. If the veins being treated are part of a larger medical procedure that addresses medically-concerning varicose veins, insurance may cover the procedure. However, if the procedure is used for cosmetic purposes, insurance companies may not cover the cost of treatment. For more information and to determine if their procedure will be covered, interested individuals should speak with a vein specialist as well as their insurance company prior to undergoing treatment.

Learn more about microphlebectomy in Sugarland, Texas.

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