Ambulatory phlebectomy

Abstract

Ambulatory phlebectomy is a safe and economical procedure that has proven to be an effective method for treating tributary and other incompetent veins. Through a small number of skin punctures, undesirable veins can be permanently removed with minimal scarring or adverse effects. Today, patients are able to undergo this procedure using local anesthesia with little or no recovery time. A small, hook-like instrument and fine clamps are is utilized to extract the varix from a small (∼2 mm) incision made by an 18-gauge needle or 15°ophthalmic blade. Postoperatively, a dry sterile compression dressing or a graduated compression garment is applied to the limb.