Ambulatory Phlebectomy

What is Ambulatory Phlebectomy

An Ambulatory Phlebectomy is a minimally-invasive outpatient procedure to remove incompetent, superficial, or varicose veins. This treatment is usually done on larger veins that bulge above the surface of the skin and may be combined with other therapies. A vein care specialist will take into account a variety of factors in determining the right treatment for each case of varicose veins. Treatment with ambulatory phlebectomy depends upon the size and location of the veins, as well as individual factors unique to each patient.

What to Expect

Prior to Treatment

We ask that you wear loose fitting clothing and comfortable shoes on the day of the procedure.

We recommended that you consume only ONE cup of a caffeinated beverage on the morning of your procedure.

You may have breakfast and/or lunch prior to the procedure and stay hydrated with water.

You may take your regular medications as prescribed unless otherwise instructed.

You will need to bring compression hose with you.  If you do not have compression hose at the time of your procedure, a pair can be purchased in our office.  Please DO NOT WEAR COMPRESSION HOSE the day of the procedure.

If the doctor has prescribed medication to be taken prior to treatment, please be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

*Please call us with any questions or concerns you may have:

The Procedure

Photographs will be taken before the ambulatory phlebectomy treatments begins. This will help to monitor your progress. A local anesthetic is used and then a very tiny incision or puncture is made in the skin through which the vein is removed. Stitches are not required. Your compression stocking will be applied, over which an ACE wrap will then be applied.

After Treatment

You will be able to walk and carry on normal activity immediately after surgery. You will need to wear graduated compression stockings for 48 hours after surgery and then daily for a week or two.

Sometimes patients experience temporary bruising and swelling in the treated area. Pain will be slight and kept at a minimum as long as compression stockings are worn.

During your office follow-up we will remove the dressings and put on your medical grade compression stocking. You will need to wear compression stockings during the day for approximately two weeks.

Plan to walk at least five to ten minutes every hour or a total of 60 minutes ambulation every day to help with the leg’s recovery process. Otherwise you can continue with your normal daily activities.

If you feel any level of discomfort, you may take an over the counter anti-inflammatory such as Advil, Aleve, or Motrin.

Please be sure to hydrate well with water the rest of the day.

Avoid all weight training and heavy aerobic exercise for two weeks and keep the treated areas out of direct sunlight for about four weeks.

It is normal to expect some bruising.

Please call us with any questions or concerns you may have.