Those with varicose veins in the Washington, DC area and in other parts of the country are well aware of the embarrassment that may arise as a result of the unaesthetic appearance of the veins. They often appear bulging from the skin, and are bluish or purplish in color. Many seek relief from the condition to improve self-image and to rid themselves of the discomfort that often accompanies this venous condition. Transilluminated powered phlebectomy has helped many in the area find relief from varicose veins and is only minimally invasive so that patients are not hampered by a long recovery period.
The procedure begins with the physician marking the veins to be removed with a surgical marker. The patient may be asked to walk around for several minutes before the veins are marked. The patient then lies down on an exam table, and the area is cleaned. A local anesthetic is then administered to help ensure the patient's comfort throughout the treatment process. In some cases, patients may request a light general anesthetic. Talk with the physician administering the treatment to determine if a light general anesthetic is right for you, or if you'd be better off with only the local anesthetic.
Once the area has been numbed, two small incisions will be made around the veins that are being treated, and a light source is provided through one of the incisions to give the physician a better view. A powered phlebectomy device is then inserted through the second incision, and the vein is removed and suctioned away. The local anesthetic not only works to numb the treatment area, it helps to compression the blood vessels in the area to reduce bleeding. The light and the powered phlebectomy device mean a shorter, easier procedure.
The leg will be wrapped in a compression bandage after the procedure, and the bandage should be worn for two days. Patients will be allowed to walk around after only a couple of hours. It is important to discuss potential complications with the Washington DC physician prior to leaving the clinic. Some of the risks include bleeding, infection, numbness, discoloration of the skin, and tingling. Risks are often considered lower with transilluminated powered phlebectomy because of the shorter time in which the treatment may be performed, the quicker allowance of walking after treatment, and the use of only two small incisions.
Compression stockings may be worn for about three weeks after the compression bandage is removed to aid in the healing process. The full recovery period may take up to six weeks, although this can vary. Patients should avoid heavy lifting during this time as well as any other activities as discussed with the physician following the procedure. Notify the physician of any complications that arise throughout the recovery period. With small incisions, and only two of them, many patients are pleased with the cosmetic appearance of their legs shortly after the procedure compared to many other procedures that may take longer for the treatment area to heal.
Learn more about transilluminated powered phlebectomy in Washington, DC.
