MayoClinic.com describes varicose veins as gnarled, enlarged veins that are usually merely a cosmetic problem. In some cases they can be a source of discomfort and lead to circulatory problems. Less invasive procedures are available, which means the days of hospital stays and long recovery days are a thing of the past. For many, vein removal is possible on an outpatient basis.
Vein Stripping
For severe cases of varicose veins, the doctor makes small incisions in the skin, ties off the problem vein and removes it through the incisions. This procedure is usually used for longer veins. According to WomensHealth.gov, this method of treatment must be done in an operating room under general anesthesia. The site states that removing the vein does not affect circulation, as veins located deeper in the leg are capable of handling the larger volumes of blood. While typically a safe surgery, it does take between one and four weeks to recover, with the most common side effect being pain in the affected leg.
PIN Stripping
PIN stripping is a procedure in which the doctor uses an instrument known as a PIN stripper, according to WomensHealth.gov. The doctor inserts this instrument into the vein, using the tip of it to sew into the end of the vein. As he removes the PIN stripper, the vein comes with it. The site adds that this may be done on an outpatient procedure or in an operating room, and patients may need either local or general anesthesia.
Removal Through Endoscopic Vein Surgery
The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute explains that endoscopic vein surgery involves the doctor making small incisions in the skin near the varicose vein. MayoClinic.com further explains that the doctor typically uses this treatment method in severe cases when leg ulcers develop. The doctor inserts a thin video camera into the leg to close the veins before removing them through the incisions. The procedure is done on an outpatient basis, and the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute notes that most patients can return to regular activities within a few weeks of having the treatment.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy
An ambulatory phlebectomy is similar to PIN stripping in that a hook removes the problematic vein or veins in the leg. The difference is that only the areas of the leg requiring incisions are numbed with anesthesia. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute states that this is done to remove the varicose veins closest to the surface of the skin, and most patients can go home the same day. WomensHealth.gov adds that this method is effective for larger veins as well; however, these may leave a small scar. Patients can usually resume normal activities the following day.
