Ambulatory Phlebectomy

An ambulatory phlebectomy involves removing a varicose vein by making small incisions in your skin and pulling it out. The procedure was first performed over 2,400 years ago by Hippocrates, the father of clinical medicine. An ambulatory phlebectomy is an excellent option for treating large varicose veins that bulge on the surface of your skin. It’s rarely used on smaller spider veins.

While varicose veins are impossible to prevent completely, experts advise exercise, diet and looser clothing choices to reduce their severity. If varicose veins have become a problem for you, the Medex Diagnostic and Treatment Center has vein specialists on staff. They treat your varicose veins with this minimally invasive procedure, making surgery unnecessary.

What Causes Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins develop when blood pools in your veins. Within your body’s circulatory system, your arteries carry oxygen-rich blood throughout your body. Your veins transport blood back to your heart for re-oxygenation. It’s a process that takes just 45 seconds to complete, thanks in part to a series of valves that maintain this flow.

Who’s at Risk for Developing Varicose Veins?

Anyone can develop varicose veins, but some individuals are more susceptible than others. You’re more at risk if you:

• Suffer from muscle weakness due to trauma, disease or injury
• Are pregnant
• Have a history of blood clots
• Sit or stands for long periods
• Are very tall or obese
• Go through changes in progesterone levels
• Have a family history of venous insufficiency
• Are undergoing cancer treatment
• Smoke cigarettes regularly

Is an Ambulatory Phlebectomy Right for You?

Your doctor diagnoses your varicose vein condition by reviewing your medical history and conducting a thorough physical exam. During the exam, you may be asked to walk, so your doctor can observe your legs. If necessary, your Medex specialist may use an ultrasound to verify your bulging veins’ location and depth.

You’re a potential candidate for an ambulatory phlebectomy if your varicose veins bulge above your skin’s surface. Even if that’s the only symptoms you’re experiencing. Severe or nagging pain is another good reason to seek the procedure since it ends pain by extracting the problem vein.

Not everyone should undergo an ambulatory phlebectomy. If you’re unable to walk or wear compression stockings, you’re not a good candidate. If you have underlying medical conditions that may hamper the success of the procedure, another option, such as sclerotherapy, may be a better fit for you.

Recovering from an Ambulatory Phlebectomy

After a successful procedure, you can return to work and other regular activities within a day or two. Your doctor may require that you wear a compression stocking for the first 24 to 48 hours. The stocking:

• Prevents new varicose veins from forming
• Controls normal bruising and swelling
• Reduces any pain

During your recovery, other recommendations facilitate your recovery and prevent blood clots. These include:

• Frequent short walks
• Contracting your leg muscles regularly
• Wearing a compression stocking for a week or two
• No heavy lifting, aerobic activities or standing for long periods during the first month