Ambulatory Phlebectomy
What is Ambulatory Phlebectomy
Varicose veins are a common vascular condition that can be painful, cosmetically displeasing, and challenging to treat. Ambulatory Phlebectomy procedures safely and effectively remove these damaged veins with minimal recovery time in the appropriate candidates, mainly those with larger and bulkier veins, not suitable for Sclerotherapy.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy is typically an outpatient procedure. During the procedure, the affected veins will be marked with a marker while the patient is standing up because veins tend to deflate when the body is in a horizontal position.
Once the affected veins have been identified, small, slit-like incisions will be made in the skin. Surgical hooks and needles are then used to extract the damaged vein. Incisions are carefully placed and usually result in minimal visible scarring.
Ablation procedures that close veins using either radiofrequency or laser technology are often used in conjunction with Ambulatory Phlebectomy in order to maximize results, usually prior to Phlebectomy in order to decrease their size.
Am I a Good Candidate for Ambulatory Phlebectomy?
A full screening is necessary to determine the severity of the varicose veins and to detect any underlying medical conditions before treatment is approved. Factors such as overall health, medical and family history, and personal preference will also be assessed to choose the right course of treatment.
What is the Recovery Like?
After your procedure, Ace wraps or compression stockings may be issued to help maintain circulation throughout the healing process. Bandages may be placed over incisions, but typically no sutures are used for smaller incisions. Temporary bruising and swelling and slight inflammation are common during healing and any discomfort is typically controlled through pain medication. Any aftercare instructions for the incisions as well as possible risks and side effects will be provided. Although it is possible for new varicose veins to develop in the future, vascular conditions should be addressed at the source to minimize the risk of recurrence.