Vein Stripping
Vein stripping refers to the surgical procedure to remove large varicose veins. Varicose veins are large bluish in color and tend to protrude or bulge. The bulging occurs as a result of incompetent valves inside the veins. Inside each vein are valves that help to compartmentalize the blood in the extremities. Compartmentalizing the blood enables the body to be able to control the flow of blood as the heart pumps. Each heart beat pushes small amounts of blood through each vein segment. When valves become damaged, more blood is allowed into the vein segments causing it to expand. The expansion increases over time and begins to bulge, thus causing the vein to move closer to the surface. If a large portion of the vein is damaged, then a vein ligation or stripping may be required.
Vein stripping is a surgical procedure done to relieve pain and swelling, prevent venous skin ulcers (wounds caused by venous insufficiency) and improve the cosmetic appearance of the leg. Before the surgery, an ultrasound is done to establish vein function and identify if there are any blood clots. The surgery can be done under general or spinal anesthesia in an outpatient setting. The surgeon makes an incision in the groin area, and marks the saphenous vein and its branches. If the entire saphenous vein is involved, then another incision is made at the ankle and a “stripper” is inserted through the leg to pull the vein out. The ends of the remaining vein are tied off or ligated to prevent reoccurrence. The 1-3 inch incisions are then closed with sutures and the leg is wrapped with compression bandage to minimize bruising and swelling. Side effects of this treatment include bruising, swelling, bleeding, pain, numbness, and infection and are usually minimal and short lived. Most individuals can resume normal activities in 7-10 days.
High health risk older adults, people with poor arterial circulation in the lower extremities, lymphedema, blood clotting disorders, pregnant women or people with arteriovenous fistualas (abnormal passageway between arteries and veins) in the leg should not undergo this procedure. Both general and vascular surgeons can perform this surgery. Consult with your surgeon to find out if vein stripping will benefit you. |
