Are There Risks with Ambulatory Phlebectomy?

Varicose veins are troublesome for individuals in the Atlanta, Georgia and in other parts of the nation. Not only do varicose veins often lead to embarrassment due to their unsightly appearance, they may cause pain and heaviness in the legs as well. This leads many to seek relief from this venous condition safely and effectively. Many may be turned off by the prospect of invasive varicose vein treatments that require a general anesthetic followed by an overnight stay in the hospital. Fortunately, however, there are several minimally-invasive treatment options available such as ambulatory phlebectomy that provide relief without the invasiveness of surgery.

Ambulatory phlebectomy is used to provide relief from large varicose veins. Those who are suffering from spider veins or smaller varicose veins should seek consultation with a vein specialist in the Atlanta area to determine which treatment may be right for them. This procedure involves tiny incisions that are made along the vein so that vein hooks may be used to remove them. A general anesthetic is not required and only a local anesthetic may be provided to ensure patient comfort throughout the treatment process. The reduced anesthesia used with this procedure helps to improve the safety of the treatment compared to many other treatment options. This procedure also offers decreased chance of varicose vein recurrence in early postoperative period compared to other procedures that use occlusion to destroy veins.

Ambulatory phlebectomy begins with the patient standing so that the physician may mark the veins being removed using a surgical marker. Veins are most easily identified with the patient standing. Next, the patient assumes the supine position and the leg is prepared using a special antiseptic solution and local anesthetic is injected along the length of the vein that is being treated. With the treatment area numbed, tiny incisions are then made over the veins and vein hooks are used to remove them. The incisions used are so small that they do not require sutures and the incisions even allow excess fluid to drain postoperatively. Pads are placed next to the skin to absorb fluid and the leg is wrapped using a compression bandage.

The compression bandage should be left in place for a couple of days. The patient should walk following the procedure, as the contraction of surrounding muscles helps to rid the area of excess fluid. This may also be helpful in reducing blood clots and aiding in the healing process. When the compression bandage is removed, patients may be encouraged to wear compression stockings for one to three weeks to continue to aid in the healing process. Patients may return to work in one to three days in most cases, but should avoid prolonged standing and heavy lifting in the first few weeks after ambulatory phlebectomy.

As with just about any medical procedure, there are certain risks associated with ambulatory phlebectomy. Bleeding and infection are possible risks, but because the incisions used are so small, these complications may be less common than other procedures. Incisions typically heal without scarring, but those with darker skin may require a longer period before the area completely fades. Other potential risks include discoloration of the surrounding skin, numbness and tingling, but these should resolve on their own. It is important that patients discuss these possible risks with a trained professional in the Atlanta area before receiving treatment.

Learn more about ambulatory phlebectomy in Atlanta, Georgia.