Recovery After Ambulatory Phlebectomy - 1

Varicose veins are troubling for individuals suffering from them in West Nyack, New York and around the country, but many are wary of treatment believing that the only means for eliminating these often painful and embarrassing veins is through surgical options that require a lengthy recovery period. Fortunately, however, there are minimally-invasive treatments that have brought relief to many suffering from this venous condition. One possible treatment options is ambulatory phlebectomy, which requires only tiny incisions through which veins may be removed using vein hooks.

Ambulatory phlebectomy is used to remove large superficial varicose veins. Those suffering from spider veins or smaller varicose veins may be encouraged to seek other methods of treatment. This procedure is considered an alternative to traditional vein stripping surgery and is just minimally-invasive. This procedure may be performed on an out-patient basis and does not require a general anesthetic like many vein stripping procedures. The lower levels of anesthesia help to ensure the safety or the procedure and reduce the recovery time after the procedure.

The procedure begins with the patient standing up, as this is the position that allows the varicose veins to be most easily identified by the vein specialist. The veins are marked using a surgical marker and the patient then lies on a table face up in the supine position. An antiseptic solution is used to prepare the leg and local anesthetic is injected along the veins that are being treated. With the treatment area numbed, tiny incisions are then made over the veins and vein hooks are used to remove the veins. The incisions are so small that sutures are not required to perform this procedure. The incisions even allow excess fluid to drain after the procedure has been performed. Pads to absorb fluids are then placed next to the skin and the leg is wrapped using a compression bandage.

The compression bandage should be left in place for about 24 to 48 hours to help aid in the healing process. After its removal, compression stockings should be worn for about one to three weeks to continue to aid in the healing process. Patients are typically encouraged to walk soon after the procedure, as the contraction of the surrounding muscles helps to rid the area of excess fluids. This also helps to reduce the risk of blood clots and contributes to the healing process. Patients are generally able to return to work or resume other normal activities within one to three days, but should avoid heavy lifting and prolonged standing in the first few weeks.

Certain risks and complications have been associated with ambulatory phlebectomy and it is important that patients discuss the matter with a trained vein specialist in the West Nyack area before undergoing treatment. There is a possible risk of bleeding or infection as with many other procedures, but because of the small incisions used with ambulatory phlebectomy, these complications may be much less common than with other vein stripping procedures. Incisions typically heal without scarring, although those with darker skin may require a longer period before the areas completely fade. Other potential problems include discoloration of the surrounding skin, numbness and tingling, although these usually resolve on their own.

Learn more about ambulatory phlebectomy in West Nyack, New York.