Know About Varicose Vein Stripping

Know About Varicose Vein Stripping
Adrian Willson Vascular Surgeon New York, New York

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Typically, varicose vein stripping is a surgical process that eliminates varicose veins from the thighs or legs. These veins are the twisted and puffy veins that are clearly visible through the skin. Usually, they have a bluish-purple or red color. Frequently, varicose veins emerge in the legs; however they may also emerge in other areas of the body. A veins specialist doctor uses the method of vein stripping for the treatment of varicose veins. This treatment method is also known as vein stripping with ablation, avulsion, and ligation.

Know About the Risks Related with Varicose Vein Stripping

The procedure of varicose vein stripping is a low-risk and safe surgical procedure. But, there are some risks involved with the procedure. Some of them are:

  • Nerve injury
  • Scarring or bruising
  • Blood clots
  • Heavy bleeding
  • Infection at the slit places
  • An allergic effect to anesthesia

The above mentioned risks are rare. But, there are many people who are likely to have them. Generally, varicose vein stripping is not suggested for:

  • Overweight people
  • People who suffer from blood-clotting problems
  • People who have skin infections
  • People who have poor leg circulation
  • Pregnant women

What to Anticipate During Varicose Vein Stripping?

Usually, the procedure of vein stripping is performed on an outpatient basis. This simply implies that you will be capable to get back to your normal routine the same day after treatment. Normally, the treatment takes around 60 to 90 minutes. A more complex operation may take long time. Based on your doctor’s suggestion, you may get either spinal or general anesthesia before the surgery. General anesthesia helps you to sleep during the whole procedure. On the other hand, spinal anesthesia weakens the lower area of your body, however, you will stay awake at the time of the surgery. Your physician may give you anti-anxiety medications to take in advance if you are getting spinal anesthesia for the procedure. During the treatment for leg vein problems, your doctor will make many small incisions or cuts, near the bottom and top of your affected vein. He/she will make one cut in your groin and another one either in your ankle or calf. Then your doctor will thread an elastic and thin plastic cable into the vein via the groin cut. Then he/she will tie the vein and extract via the incision in the lower leg. After that your doctor closes the incision with and stitches and put compression stockings and bandages on your legs.

What Happens Post the Treatment?

Generally, it takes 2-4 weeks to get better from varicose vein stripping surgery. But, the time of your recovery will be based on the quantity of stripped veins and their positions. Your doctor will also suggest you to take painkillers to ease the discomfort. Also, your Vein Doctor may suggest you to relax your feet for the initial 3-4 days after the procedure. After 4 days, you can take off the bandages. During the recovery period, you should elevate your legs while sitting. You can use pillows to elevate your legs.