Is microphlebectomy the same thing as ambulatory phlebectomy?

I have large varicose veins on both legs and am trying to figure out what the best treatment is. Microphlebectomy and ambulatory phlebectomy both are surgical procedures, and they sound kind of the same. Which is better?

Answers from doctors (8)


More About Doctor David Green, MD

Published on Jan 31, 2022

Phlebectomy is the surgical removal of varicose veins by making multiple incisions on the skin and removing segments of the varicose veins. These days, almost everyone performing this procedure makes small incisions (millimeter) and the procedure is referred to as 'microphlebectomy'. 'Ambulatory' usually refers to a procedure that is done in the office or an outpatient facility. The term 'ambulatory phlebectomy' has been used for decades to distinguish this procedure from 'vein stripping' that is done under anesthesia in the operating room.

These days, 'vein stripping' is rarely performed and in its place is 'endovenous ablation' (EVA). EVA can be administered with two different methods of heating the vein internally: laser energy (EVLT) or radiofrequency (RFA).

Although 'microphlebectomy' is still commonly performed, 'sclerotherapy' (injection of a solution directly into the vein) is able to more completely, more efficiently,more permanently, and almost painlessly remove even the largest of varicose veins that appear under the skin. Sclerotherapy does not result in any scarring. Microphlebectomy produces scars, even though small.

Answered by David Green, MD (View Profile)

Phlebectomy is the surgical removal of varicose veins by making multiple incisions on the skin and removing segments of the varicose veins. These days, almost everyone performing this procedure makes small incisions (millimeter) and the procedure is referred to as 'microphlebectomy'. 'Ambulatory' usually refers to a procedure that is done in the office or an outpatient facility. The term 'ambulatory phlebectomy' has been used for decades to distinguish this procedure from 'vein stripping' that is done under anesthesia in the operating room.

These days, 'vein stripping' is rarely performed and in its place is 'endovenous ablation' (EVA). EVA can be administered with two different methods of heating the vein internally: laser energy (EVLT) or radiofrequency (RFA).

Although 'microphlebectomy' is still commonly performed, 'sclerotherapy' (injection of a solution directly into the vein) is able to more completely, more efficiently,more permanently, and almost painlessly remove even the largest of varicose veins that appear under the skin. Sclerotherapy does not result in any scarring. Microphlebectomy produces scars, even though small.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Sep 11, 2010

Microphlebectomy is exactly the same procedure as ambulatory phlebectomy. Micro refers to the tiny incisions made and ambulatory refers to the fact that patients can get up and walk immediately after the procedure without the need for hospital admission. Before proceeding with this procedure, you should be evaluated for reflux.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Microphlebectomy is exactly the same procedure as ambulatory phlebectomy. Micro refers to the tiny incisions made and ambulatory refers to the fact that patients can get up and walk immediately after the procedure without the need for hospital admission. Before proceeding with this procedure, you should be evaluated for reflux.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Center Houston

Published on Oct 12, 2009

Micro-phlebectomy refers to the removal of veins via very small incisions (often needle size). Ambulatory phlebectomy refers to the fact that the Phlebectomy is performed in a outpatient setting. The terms refer to the same procedure. Only a physical examination and an Ultrasound can determine the best treatments for a patient.

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Answered by Vein Center Houston

Micro-phlebectomy refers to the removal of veins via very small incisions (often needle size). Ambulatory phlebectomy refers to the fact that the Phlebectomy is performed in a outpatient setting. The terms refer to the same procedure. Only a physical examination and an Ultrasound can determine the best treatments for a patient.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


General Vascular Surgery Group

Published on Oct 08, 2009

They are the same procedure usually done in conjunction with
endovenous ablation (either laser or radiofrequency).

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Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group

They are the same procedure usually done in conjunction with
endovenous ablation (either laser or radiofrequency).

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on Oct 08, 2009

They are the same procedure. Involves the use of very small incisions next to the varicose veins and using especial instruments pull the varicose veins. They do not require stitches. The recovery is fast. Patient needs to wear compression stockings for at least 2 weeks post-procedure. It is used for large superficial varicose veins.

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Answered by Heart and Vein Center

They are the same procedure. Involves the use of very small incisions next to the varicose veins and using especial instruments pull the varicose veins. They do not require stitches. The recovery is fast. Patient needs to wear compression stockings for at least 2 weeks post-procedure. It is used for large superficial varicose veins.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Angelo N. Makris MD

Published on Oct 08, 2009

They are two names for the same procedure.


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Answered by Angelo N. Makris MD

They are two names for the same procedure.


Published on Jul 11, 2012


The Kimmel Institute

Published on Oct 08, 2009

They are the same thing.
Make sure that you choose a Board Certified Vascular Surgeon for this
procedure, so that if complications develop, he can best treat them.

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Answered by The Kimmel Institute

They are the same thing.
Make sure that you choose a Board Certified Vascular Surgeon for this
procedure, so that if complications develop, he can best treat them.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


VeinSolutions - Edina

Published on Oct 08, 2009

They are the same procedure, ambulatory microphlebectomy.






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Answered by VeinSolutions - Edina

They are the same procedure, ambulatory microphlebectomy.






Published on Jul 11, 2012


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