Remove Unwanted Varicose Veins with Ambulatory Phlebectomy

Individuals in Independence, Missouri and in other parts of the country have successfully overcome varicose veins through ambulatory phlebectomy and other minimally-invasive treatment options. Those with varicose veins often find that their insurance plan will cover the cost of treatment following a trial period of more conservative treatment options such as wearing compression stockings, losing weight and exercising. Note that the only way to get rid of varicose veins, though, is by destroying or removing them. The conservative treatments mentioned will treat symptoms of varicose veins, but do not get rid of them. This is an issue that should be discussed with a vein specialist.

Ambulatory phlebectomy procedures will begin with the patient standing up as this is the position in which the veins are most easily identified by the specialist. A surgical marker is used to mark the veins that are being removed. The patient then lies face up on the table and a local anesthetic is injected after the area is thoroughly cleaned. Once the treatment area is numbed with the anesthetic, tiny incisions are made over the veins and a vein hook is used to grab and remove the veins. With incisions so small as those performed with ambulatory phlebectomy, sutures are not required.

After the veins are removed, the pads are put in place to absorb any fluids and a compression bandage is used to wrap the leg. The compression bandage should be left in place for a few days to help the healing process. Once it is removed, compression stockings are work for a few weeks to continue to aid in the healing process. Following the treatment, patients will be asked to walk shortly after as the contraction of the surrounding muscles is helpful in ridding the treatment area of excess fluids, helps to reduce the chance of blood clots and aids the healing process. Patients are usually able to return to work a few days after treatment, but should avoid heavy lifting and prolonged standing.

Those who receive ambulatory phlebectomy should always follow recovery instructions given to them by the Independence vein specialist. Patients should also discuss possible risks associated with this procedure beforehand. The most common complication with many procedures is bleeding and infection, but with the small incisions used with ambulatory phlebectomy, these complications are less common than with traditional vein stripping procedures. Most patients heal without scarring, although those with darker skin may require a longer period before the areas fade completely. Other possible side effects or complications include discoloration of the surrounding skin and numbness, although these usually go away on their own.

Learn more about ambulatory phlebectomy in Independence, Missouri.