Do you suffer from bulging varicose veins? This common disorder occurs when veins become dilated and stretched out due to a high pressure source. Some varicose veins are painless and barely visible, while others cause discomfort and a gnarled appearance. Ambulatory phlebectomy is one treatment option to remove visible varicose veins.
How do I know if ambulatory phlebectomy treatment is the right choice for me?
Candidacy for Ambulatory Phlebectomy
If your varicose veins are superficial, meaning they show through the skin, this treatment could be an option for you. Varicose veins of any size that are pronounced and cause discomfort can be alleviated by this procedure. Ambulatory phlebectomy is not recommended for spider veins. You should also avoid this treatment if:
- You’ve given birth in the last three months, or are pregnant
- If you’ve had major surgery in the last three months
- If you have deep vein thrombosis (blood clots) or incompetence (venous insufficiency)
Compression socks are required after the procedure to speed healing and keep blood flowing through the legs. If you are unable to ambulate (i.e. move or walk around), ambulatory phlebectomy should be avoided.
How Does Ambulatory Phlebectomy Work?
This minimally-invasive vein disorder treatment is an outpatient procedure that requires local anesthesia. Our skilled clinicians use surgical hooks to gently pull each varicose vein through small punctures no larger than two- to three-millimeters in diameter. The relatively painless procedure will have you back on your feet the same day, although you should avoid strenuous physical activity for one week. Common side effects include bruising, tenderness or a small hard lump underneath the skin. Compression stockings must be worn one week post-procedure to improve healing.
If you think ambulatory phlebectomy could be right for your varicose veins, make an appointment for a consultation with us today!