Phlebectomy
Varicose veins are the large veins, usually bluish in color, that tend to protrude or bulge. The bulging occurs as a result of improperly working valves and weakened walls inside the veins. When veins become weakened or damaged they allow an increased amount of blood into the small space, causing the vein to become larger. The expansion increases over time and begins to bulge, thus causing the vein to move closer to the surface. The underlying causes of varicose veins can be related to a venous disorder, heredity, hormones, trauma or prolonged standing.
Phlebectomy or ambulatory phlebectomy is the removal of varicose veins through small incisions made in the skin around the bulging vein. Large veins, when not filled with blood can collapse easily. Because of this they are able to be pulled out through the small incisions of the phlebectomy. The procedure is done in the office under local anesthetic and the patient is able to walk the same day. Often the incisions are so small no stitches are needed. The physician will put a compression bandage on the treated leg and request it stay on for a few days.
There is no cure for spider and varicose veins and there is no way to prevent new ones from appearing. Treatments are designed to eliminate existing veins, assist with symptom relief and to keep new veins from progressing into the larger unsightly veins.
The cost of these in office surgical procedures will depend on the surgeon and facility. Treatment options should be discussed with your vein specialist to see if ambulatory phlebectomy would benefit you. |
