It’s usually preferable to treat varicose veins with radiofrequency ablation, if possible. Foam sclerotherapy is also effective, but it can have size limitations. So, if the varicose vein is relatively close to the surface skin and can’t be treated with these toher options, Dr. Rami may opt for microphlebectomy.
If you know a friend who had this done, you may have heard the procedure called ambulatory phlebectomy or stab phlebectomy. Those both sound kind of intimidating, but the procedure is really not. Microphlebectomy at Desert Vein & Vascular is an outpatient procedure that removes the varicose veins through small incisions in the skin. The treatment is very effective and only involves minimal recovery.
Who can have microphlebectomy?
A good candidate for this procedure is a person who can walk unassisted, has normal arterial circulation, and isn’t allergic to local anesthetic options. The patient needs to be free of infections, rashes, or other skin conditions.
Prior to performing a microphlebectomy, it’s likely that Dr. Rami will perform an ultrasound examination to determine if your varicose veins are connected to other larger veins, which may need to be treated first. We’ll also check for clots in deep or superficial veins.
How is microphlebectomy done?
First, Dr. Rami will mark the veins that are to be removed. Next, he’ll inject the area with a local anesthetic. This makes the procedure painless for the patient. For the procedure, tiny incisions (only about the size of the tip of a ballpoint pen, 2-3mm) are made in the target areas. Through the incisions Dr. Rami inserts a surgical hook to extract the damaged vein section by section. The incisions are so tiny they normally do not require any stitches. The whole procedure takes just 45 to 60 minutes.
Recovery
Patients need to wear compression bandages or stockings for a week after surgery to help minimize swelling and discomfort. But there will be some bruising, swelling, and discomfort. This can be minimized by diligently wearing your compression stockings and using over-the-counter pain medication. Most patients can return to work the next day. Exercise and heavy lifting should be put off for two weeks.
Tired of the look or aching of legs due to your varicose veins? Call Dr. Rami and the team at Desert Vein & Vascular Institute, (623) 847-3884, to make an appointment to get rid of them.