Microphlebectomy's Advantages for Removing Varicose Veins

Varicose veins may affect individuals in Elgin, Illinois and other parts of the country. They may appear purplish or bluish in color and may be bulging from the skin, creating a very unsightly appearance. As if that wasn't enough, varicose veins may even lead to pain and heaviness in the legs, making this a burdensome condition for many individuals who are suffering from it. Fortunately, however, there are minimally-invasive treatment options available to those wishing to remove unattractive and sometimes painful varicose veins. One such option is microphlebectomy, which may also be referred to as the 'stab phlebectomy'.

Don't let its name fool you, though. The procedure gets its name 'stab phlebectomy' because the tiny openings made during this procedure are referred to as 'stabs'. A local anesthetic is used to numb the treatment area to help ensure patient comfort throughout the procedure. To begin the treatment, the specialist will mark the areas to be treated to determine where the stabs will be made. The tiny incisions will then be made along the length of the vein that is being removed and a tiny hook will be used to grab the vein for removal.

After the procedure, a dressing will be placed on the treatment area. The procedure may take between 30 and 45 minutes to perform and most individuals are able to return to normal activities right after the procedure. Walking is recommended following treatment, although individuals should avoid strenuous activities for about five to seven days. Compression stockings or compression dressings may be worn for about a week after treatment to aid in the healing process and promote healthy blood flow.

The results may be available soon after the procedure is performed and as the initial bruising subsides, the results should become more evident. There is virtually no scarring associated with this procedure, as the incisions used are very tiny. As with just about any procedure, there are certain risks associated with this procedure. Some temporary mild discomfort and bruising may be present for a day or two at the treatment site, while very few individuals may experience minor injury to the tiny nerves that are just below the skin's surface near the treatment area. The injured nerves typically heal over time, however.

This procedure is used to treat veins too large to treat using sclerotherapy, but too small to safely treat using laser procedures. If used to varicose veins causing a medical concern, insurance may cover this procedure. However, if used as a cosmetic procedure, insurance may not cover the cost of treatment. To determine whether insurance will cover treatment, patients should speak with a medical professional in the Elgin area as well as their insurance company.

Learn more about microphlebectomy in Elgin, Illinois.