Ambulatory Phlebectomy

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AP (Ambulatory Phlebectomy) is a procedure which allows for the removal of large surface varicosities through very small incisions that need no stitches. Patients can go back to work and normal activity after 24 hours.

Ambulatory phlebectomy is an in office procedure to remove surface varicosities. During this procedure the diseased vein is delicately pulled through small needle punctures. The incision is so small that stitches are not required, and compared to traditional vein stripping, this technique has virtually no scarring or side effects.

The recovery time is minimal with ambulatory phlebectomy. In fact patients walk for 20 minutes after the procedure in our office. Daily walking is encouraged. Only strenuous exercise is discouraged for 7 – 10 days, as well as using a hot tub or going swimming. With this procedure, a compression bandage is worn for 2 weeks. This minimizes swelling and discomfort and allows for proper healing.

With age some women develop large bulging veins due to the loss of fatty tissue and skin elasticity. Veins become less elastic with age or inherited tendencies. The lack of elasticity allows more blood to remain in the veins, thus pressing them close to the skin in plain view. This makes their hands look very masculine or aged. Others are born with prominent veins on their hands which become noticeable at a fairly young age. Although not necessarily a health concern, big veins tend to age one’s hands; unwanted hand veins are primarily a cosmetic problem.

In most cases, they’re not true varicose veins, but are large veins that are more visible because they lie so close to the skin. However, if their appearance bothers you, hand veins can be injected in a technique called hand vein sclerotherapy. Hand vein sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that can be done in our office. The treatment is virtually painless with no significant associated risks.