Individuals in Fairfield, Connecticut and around the country who are suffering from varicose veins may find the condition unsightly and embarrassing. Some may even experience self-consciousness due to the presence of varicose veins on their legs. Varicose veins appear as blue or purplish in color and appear as bulging from the skin. They are the result of inefficiencies within the veins, particularly with the valves that prevent blood from flowing backwards. If the veins allow the blood to flow backwards, the blood may pool, thus forming varicose veins. Fortunately, there are ways of treating this condition without requiring a general anesthetic and overnight stay in the hospital.
Through minimally-invasive treatments such as ambulatory phlebectomy, many individuals have successfully overcome this condition. Insurance may even cover the cost of treatment, although before ambulatory phlebectomy may be covered, insurance companies may require that conservative approaches to treating the symptoms of varicose veins be tried first. These may include compression stockings, exercising, dietary changes and other lifestyle or environmental changes. If these methods are unsuccessful, insurance may cover the cost of ambulatory phlebectomy.
It should be noted, of course, that the only way to get rid of varicose veins is by destroying or removing the problem vein. Conservative methods of treatment may relieve the symptoms of the condition, but do not destroy or remove the actual vein. Those who are interested in receiving treatment for varicose veins through ambulatory phlebectomy or other procedures are encouraged to seek consultation with a vein specialist in the Fairfield area as well as with their insurance company.
This procedure begins with the patient first standing so the varicose veins may be easily identified. The specialist will then mark the veins to be removed using a surgical marker and the patient will then assume the supine position. The leg is prepared for treatment with an antiseptic and a local anesthetic is injected along the veins that are being treated for patient comfort. Next, tiny incisions are made along the vein and vein hooks are used to remove the problem veins. The incisions used are so small that sutures are not required and even allow excess fluid to drain postoperatively. Pads to absorb the fluid are placed next to the skin and the leg is wrapped with a compression bandage.
The compression bandage should be left in place for about one to two days and the patient should walk soon after treatment, as the contraction as the surrounding muscles helps to rid the treated area of excess fluids, reduces the risk of blood clots and contributes to the healing process. Compression stockings may be worn for about one to three weeks once the compression bandage is removed to continue to aid in the healing process. Patients are typically able to resume normal activities and return to work after one to three days, but should avoid prolonged standing and heavy lifting in the first few weeks.
As with just about any treatment, there are certain risks associated with ambulatory phlebectomy and patients should consult a specialist in the Fairfield area to discuss them further. Bleeding and infection are possible risks, although with the small incisions used during this procedure, these complications are less common than with traditional vein stripping procedures. Incisions typically heal without scarring, although individuals with darker skin may require a longer period before the area completely fades. Other possible risks associated with ambulatory phlebectomy include discoloration of the surrounding skin, numbness and tingling. There is also a possibility of long-term recurrence of varicose veins, especially if the factors that cause them remain after treatment.
Learn more about ambulatory phlebectomy in Fairfield, Connecticut.
