The Patient’s Guide to Ambulatory Phlebectomy

If you are suffering from varicose veins, one treatment your doctor may suggest is ambulatory phlebectomy. This outpatient procedure is a permanent solution for varicose veins that is especially helpful when the veins are causing issues like leg pain, heaviness, or even venous ulcers. Talk to your vein specialist in Houston about all of your treatment options to determine if ambulatory phlebectomy could be the right procedure for you. Here are the facts you need to know.

What Is Ambulatory Phlebectomy?

Ambulatory phlebectomy is one of the most popular procedures for removing varicose veins. It is also sometimes referred to as stab avulsion or mini-phlebectomy. During the procedure, which is performed under local anesthesia, the vein specialist removes portions of the varicose vein through a series of small incisions that run the length of the vein. The incisions are very small and do not require stitches. Once the vein is removed, the body will naturally redirect blood flow to healthy veins, resolving the symptoms caused by the caused by the damaged vein.

Who Is a Good Candidate for the Procedure?

Ambulatory phlebectomy is usually recommended for people who have medium to large varicose veins that are near the surface of the skin. The procedure is generally not effective for deep veins or veins the contain clots or that are attached to other veins. Sometimes, it is necessary for vein specialists to treat clots or other conditions before performing ambulatory phlebectomy procedures.

What Happens After the Procedure?

After surgery, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and soreness along the treatment area. It is necessary to wear graduated compression stockings after the procedure for a period of time recommended by your vein specialist. The compression stockings promote healing and healthy blood flow, and typically, patients who wear them as directed experience minimal discomfort and recover quickly from the procedure. After treatment, most patients have an improvement in the symptoms that were associated with the varicose veins.