Varicose veins are considered troubling conditions for patients throughout Gainesville, Florida and in other parts of the country. The unsightly appearance of the condition leads many to seek treatment, while the pain and discomfort can be very disrupting for many individuals suffering from varicose veins. Thankfully, there are several minimally invasive options for treating the condition such as ambulatory phlebectomy.
Ambulatory phlebectomy is a minimally invasive venous treatment designed for the treatment of large varicose veins. Patients who are suffering from spider veins, which are similar to varicose veins but do not appear as bulging and do not cause pain or discomfort, are encouraged to explore other options. Ambulatory phlebotomy acts as an alternative treatment to vein stripping procedures, which often require a significant period of downtime and recovery.
While some patients may successfully treat varicose veins through home remedies such as exercise, raising their legs above their heart periodically, avoiding long periods of standing or sitting, and practicing a generally healthy lifestyle, many still require medical procedures or treatments to overcome the disease. Ambulatory phlebectomy involves tiny incisions through which a vein may be removed. The incisions made are so small that there is typically no scarring associated with the procedure. Darker skinned individuals, however, may require a longer period before the marks fade away.
As with any medical procedure, complications such as bleeding and infection may occur. It is important to discuss these risks with a vein specialist in the Gainesville area in determining if ambulatory phlebectomy is the right choice. Other complications associated with this procedure include discoloration of the surrounding skin, numbness and tingling. As the incisions used are so small, risks associated with ambulatory phlebectomy are often much less common than with other procedures.
Patients determining whether this procedure is right for them must discuss their medical history and any conditions with a vein specialist who is experienced and trained in dealing with varicose veins. Multiple sessions or treatments may be required to fully remove all varicose veins in many cases. Insurance may cover the cost of ambulatory phlebectomy, although patients may be required to first try more conservative approaches to ridding themselves of varicose veins. This may include exercise, compression stockings and weight loss.
Ambulatory phlebectomy is an outpatient procedure that is most commonly performed in doctor's offices and vein treatment clinics. The patient will first stand so the physician can mark their veins using a surgical marker. The patient then assumes the supine position and an antiseptic is used to cleanse the area and a local anesthetic is injected for patient comfort. With the treatment area numb, injections are made along the problem vein and a vein hook is used to grab and remove the vein through the incisions. Sutures are not required, as the incisions made are so small. The incisions even allow for excess fluid to drain following the procedure. Once the treatment has been completed, pads are put in place to avoid any fluids and a compression bandage is applied.
The compression bandage is kept in place for a day or two to aid in healing. Once removed, compression stockings may be worn for one to three weeks. Patients are encouraged to walk following treatment, as the contraction of muscles helps to rid the treatment area of fluids, reduce the risk of blood clots and aids in healing. Patients are usually able to return to work after one to three days, but should avoid prolonged standing and heavy lifting in the initial weeks following treatment.
Learn more about ambulatory phlebectomy in Gainesville, Florida. .
