Ambulatory phlebectomy is a procedure where a surgeon removes damaged veins in a patient’s legs, and they are free to go home soon after their treatment. It is most often done to treat small varicose veins. These are veins whose valves have failed and allowed blood to pool in them. This leads to large red or blue veins that can be seen just under the skin.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Ambulatory Phlebectomy?
A good candidate for the procedure is a person whose varicose veins may or may not be symptomatic or who is suffering complications from their varicose veins. It is not recommended for people who have cellulitis or a severe case of edema in the area to be treated. Ambulatory phlebectomy is not for people who must take blood thinning medications, people who have blood clotting problems or people who are seriously ill.
Even before the surgery, the patient needs to have a consultation with their surgeon and a medical examination to make sure that they are a good candidate for the procedure. The doctor will also tell the patient how to prepare for the surgery. Virtually anyone who is bothered by the appearance of their varicose veins makes a good candidate. Our professionals will need to make sure that this is the best option for you, however, as there are other treatments available.
After Ambulatory Phlebectomy
The patient is discharged from the facility after they’ve shown the medical staff they can walk. The surgeon prescribes pain medications and instructs the patient to come back the next day. At that time, their bandage will be taken off, and they’ll be fitted with a compression stocking which they’ll wear for at least two weeks.
The goal here is to conduct a minimally-invasive procedure that results in as little downtime as possible. The patient should gradually return to their daily tasks but avoid strenuous activities for at least two weeks, especially if the activity involves their legs. They should not, for example, engage in mountain biking while they heal from their ambulatory phlebectomy. They’ll also be given a schedule of follow up appointments.
Call Us if You Have Varicose Veins
If you have varicose veins that are causing you discomfort or are simply unsightly, consider ambulatory phlebectomy at Venus Vein Clinic. Even if you are not a good candidate for this procedure, we offer many others that we may be able to recommend. We are conveniently located in Omaha, NE. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with our team!