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Traditional Vein Stripping Surgery
Target Veins:
Greater and Lesser Saphenous veins as well as large twisted branch varicose veins.
This was the preferred treatment for the saphenous veins until ablation techniques were developed.
How it Works:
The veins are actually physically ripped out of the leg. Suture may be used to tie off the ends of the vein being removed. Bleeding and bruising are usually profound.
Treatment Technique:
This is a surgery performed at the hospital or outpatient surgery center under general anesthesia. The procedure involves numerous incisions in the leg ranging from 1-6 inches. Veins are then accessed and physically stripped out using a stripping device. This can be repeated on as many veins as is necessary. The incisions are then closed either by suture or staples and bandages are applied.
Patient Tolerance:
The surgery is done under general anesthesia, so tolerance of the procedure is obviously good. The recovery however is difficult. Pain, bruising, and swelling are usually high. There is quite a bit of time off of work. Narcotic pain medications are usually necessary. Elevating the legs for up to 2 weeks is usually recommended.
Post Procedure Care:
Elaborate compression dressings are in place for 1-2 weeks. No bathing for 2-5 days. Elevation of the legs is critical for 1- 2 weeks. Ice is used for the swelling. Pain is controlled with narcotic medications. Follow-up is usually 2 weeks and then again at 6 weeks after surgery.
Results:
The large veins are gone after stripping. The incisions leave fairly prominent scars however. Spider vein formation around the scars is also common. Not usually considered a cosmetic improvement but can eliminate pain and swelling.