Micro Phlebectomy / Ambulatory phlebectomy

Microphlebectomy, also known as ambulatory phlebectomy, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicose veins. Microphlebectomy is appropriate for treating large, superficial varicose veins that do not respond to sclerotherapy. The incisions made during microphlebectomy are generally 1 to 3mm in length. Unlike traditional surgery, microphlebectomy is an outpatient procedure.

How It Works

Microphlebectomy is performed under local anesthesia and usually takes about an hour to complete. First, the veins are marked while the patient is in standing position, and lidocaine is applied to numb the skin over the veins. The leg is then washed with a solution to kill germs and prevent infection.

Tiny punctures are made in the skin, spaced approximately 5 to 10cm apart, depending on the severity of the varicose veins being treated. A small hook is used to locate the vein and pull it up through the skin to remove it. After the veins have been removed, the skin is cleansed and adhesive strips are placed over the incisions to hold them together. Absorbent pads are placed over the incisions to soak up drainage from the medicine that’s injected. Stitches are usually unnecessary, but a small internal stitch may be used in some cases.

After the Procedure

The results of microphlebectomy are sometimes visible immediately after treatment. If mild bruising occurs after treatment, the final results will appear once the bruising has cleared. After the procedure, normal activity can be resumed, but you should avoid strenuous activity for at least a day or two. Walking, however, is heavily encouraged.

Compression stockings should be worn continuously for at least two days or however long the doctor advises you to wear them. To prevent bruising, it’s usually recommended that you wear the stockings for at least one to two weeks, any time that you are out and about.

You will be required to return to Family Surgical one week after the procedure, so the doctor can remove the compression dressing and check the incisions. Two weeks after the procedure, you will be required to return again for a follow-up visit.

Some of the veins may look dark, hard, and lumpy, but these symptoms will resolve within one to three months. It’s best to avoid direct sun exposure in the two to three months following treatment because it can darken the veins. If you do go out into the sun, apply sun block to your legs.

Complications

Mild side effects that have been reported with microphlebectomy include bruising, swelling, scar formation, temporary phlebitis, mild infection, and superficial clot formation. You may feel mild to moderate pain after the procedure, but it can be controlled with pain medication like Ibuprofen.

There is a remote possibility that more severe complications will arise, although the chances of that happening are very small. Severe complications include pulmonary embolism, deep venous blood clot, significant bleeding, and serious allergic reaction.

Best Candidates

If you have varicose veins or spider veins that are painful, unattractive, or both, you may be a candidate for microphlebectomy. Even elderly patients qualify for microphlebectomy. If you have a vascular condition or are pregnant, however, you are not eligible. The procedure has a very high success rate, and the vast majority of our patients are very pleased with the results.