Microphlebectomy
Microphlebectomy
Also known as an “ambulatory phlebectomy”, this surgical procedure describes the removal of varicose veins too tortuous and superficial to be treated with the endovenous laser ablation (ELVA) technique. This occurs by locally anesthetizing the area and then removing the varicose veins through needle punctures in the skin. This procedure is preferable to previous methods of varicose vein removal known as “vein stripping” which required a tremendous amount of recovery time.
Microphlebectomy is an in-office procedure, so there is no need to worry about checking into a busy hospital or having to stay overnight. The microphlebectomy is often combined with endovenous laser ablation therapy.
Before Your Microphlebectomy
Before the procedure takes place, Terrance R. Krysinski, MD will perform a focused ultrasound exam of the treatment site to determine which veins will be removed. Generally, he will use a skin-marking pen to identify the sites on your leg.
The Microphlebectomy Procedure
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Microphlebectomy only removes the enlarged, diseased portions of problem veins. This procedure generally follows an EVLA, during which the vein from which the varicose veins have branched is lased shut. Then after administering additional local anesthesia, needle punctures are placed over the path of the varicose veins in the skin. Next, using very small hooked surgical tools, our surgeon Dr. Krysinski will hook the varicose veins and pull them out through the needle puncture sites.
After the procedure, the puncture sites are covered with steri-strips. No sutures or staples are necessary. Then bandages are placed and stockings are applied to the treatment site. You you walk on our treadmill after the surgery before being discharged home. You are able to drive yourself home. The day following your surgery you will return to our office for a brief follow-up visit and ultrasound of the treatment site.
Is the procedure comfortable?
Patients experience little discomfort and generally compare the sensation of receiving the local anesthetic to “bee stings” or “pinches.” Generally, injections to deliver the local anesthetic are all a patient will feel. Although the microphlebectomy is a surgical procedure, it is not usually painful nor is it scary. Terrance R. Krysinski, MD performs this procedure with great care and always with his patient’s comfort in mind.
Will I require stitches?
Because the incisions or needle punctures are so small, microphlebectomy does not require sutures or staples. Scarring is minimal. Careful UV/sun protection of the procedures site in the weeks to months that follow the surgeries will aid the marks in fading faster.
What kind of results should I expect from a microphlebectomy?
Microphlebectomy has an incredible success rate. This procedure is generally done in conjunction with an EVLA. After a refluxing vein trunk is sealed with the laser, the varicose veins branching off the laser vein can be removed. Together, the microphlebectomy and the EVLA offer great success in improvement of persistent lower extremity symptoms including pain and fatigue while also benefiting the appearance of one’s legs.
Varicose veins are not solely a cosmetic concern but are a medical issue as well, so health insurance often helps with treatment costs. Call today to schedule your varicose vein evaluation with Terrance R. Krysinski, MD or one of his medical providers at Vein Institute of Pittsburgh℠ at 724-934-846. Don’t hide your legs, care for them instead!