Ambulatory Phlebectomy

Ambulatory phlebectomy (also known as microphlebectomy) involves the direct removal of large, superficial varicose veins. This is occasionally necessary as an adjunct to endovenous laser ablation. After injecting a local anesthetic, the abnormal veins are removed with a small hook through a 1-3 mm incision. Several tiny incisions may likely be necessary to remove the abnormal veins.

The Day of Treatment

Do not come to the office on an empty stomach. You will not be having general anesthesia. We encourage you to have a small meal 1 to 2 hours prior to arriving at the office.

You will be receiving a local anesthetic and, if you choose, an oral sedative. You will not be able to drive home following the procedure. Please arrange for someone to drive you home. You will be in the office up to 2 1/2 hours. The actual procedure itself takes only about 1 hour.

Shave the affected leg the night before your procedure. Do not apply any type of moisturizer to your leg the day of the procedure.

Do not use any aspirin products for 1 week prior to having the procedure. If you are on blood thinners, please notify us immediately so we can speak with your primary doctor and determine a course of action.

Please bring your compression hose to all appointments.

Going Home

Do not drive or operate machinery for 24 hours after your procedure. For any long car rides the week after your procedure, please get out and walk hourly. You will have compression hose in place when you leave the office. Wear this hose for the first 24 hours (including during sleep) after your procedure. Then wear the hose for the next 6 days except when sleeping or showering.

You will have a small dressing and Steri-Strips at the insertion site after your procedure. You may remove the dressing at your first shower, but leave the Steri-Strips in place. The Steri-Strips may begin to come loose after 5-7 days, at which time you may remove them.

You may have some discomfort following the procedure. We suggest Tylenol (2 tablets every 4 hours as needed) to manage this discomfort. If you are having extreme discomfort or bleeding, notify the office immediately. Some patients find it helpful to take a day or two off from work, although we expect you to be able to resume all your pre-procedural activities (including work) the following day.

We would like you to continue to keep moving and maintain a normal level of activity. Walking twice daily for 20 minutes is encouraged and promotes speedy healing. Please refrain from vigorous exercise, however, for 1 week.

You will may a short, follow-up appointment 72 hours after the procedure.