Microphlebectomy (Stab Phlebectomy) Relieves Ugly, Painful Varicose Veins

Those in the Fullerton, California area who are suffering from varicose veins know all about the painful, ugly nature of the disease. These individuals do not have to be reminded of the importance of safe, effective treatments to provide relief. Varicose veins may cause the legs to feel heavy and may be extremely uncomfortable or painful for those suffering from the condition. While various surgical options exist and have been used to remove these problem veins, other minimally invasive options are also available.

One such treatment option is a microphlebectomy, or stab phlebectomy as it has also been called. This is an outpatient procedure that does not require an overnight stay in the hospital or the lengthy, unpleasant recovery period that many surgeries require. A series of tiny incisions are made along the vein from which portions of the problem vein are removed. The areas of the vein that are not removed will close, preventing blood from flowing through them and thus eliminating the ugly appearance of the condition and its painful symptoms.

To prepare the patient for the procedure, the physician will mark the incision sites and the area will be numbed using a local anesthetic. Once the area is numb, the incisions will be made and the portions of the vein will be removed using a tiny hook. A bandage will then be applied once the procedure is complete. The treatment typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes.

There is no downtime associated with this procedure in most cases, as patients are often able to return to work or resume other normal daily activities immediately following treatment. Patients are even encouraged to walk following treatment, although strenuous activities should be avoided for about a week. Compression stockings may also be required to aid in the healing process and to promote healthy blood flow.

There is virtually no scarring associated with this procedure and results are visible almost immediately following treatment. However, optimal results will not be realized until the initial bruising subsides. Bruising and mild discomfort are common for a day or two after the procedure, and these side effects usually resolve on their own. In rare cases, injury to the nerves just below the skin near the area from which the veins were removed has been reported. This damage usually heals with time, however.

There are several advantages of microphlebectomy that attract patients to this procedure. Many choose this treatment because it is minimally invasive in nature compared to other procedures that may be considered very invasive and burdensome. Many patients are attracted to this treatment because it requires only a local anesthetic instead of a general anesthetic, as is required with many surgical procedures. There is also little to no downtime required, allowing patients to immediately resume their normal routine in most cases.

Some patients have even successfully used microphlebectomy in combination with other treatments such as sclerotherapy to treat deeper veins. This option should be discussed further with a medical professional.

Patients are also encouraged to consult with a medical professional to determine if they are suffering from spider veins or varicose veins, as this is likely to affect the physician's recommended treatment. All of these factors should be discussed in greater detail with an experienced and qualified medical professional before undergoing any procedure.

Learn more about microphlebectomy in Fullerton, California.