Ambulatory phlebectomy is the technique used to remove varicose veins through tiny incisions usually under a local anaesthetic. It is often used to completely remove all visible veins after treatment of the main refluxing veins with one of the catheter closure techniques.
Which varicose veins are suitable?
Any visible vein larger than 2mm can be excised.
How is the procedure performed?
This procedure is usually performed under a local anaesthetic. The veins to be treated are marked while standing. After an injection of local anaesthetic a tiny incision is made next to the mark and the vein removed using a small phlebectomy hook.
What are the potential complications?
There can be some discolouration afterwards, bleeding, and sometimes the veins are stuck and do not remove easily.
What are the alternative treatments?
These include no treatment or foam sclerotherapy.