Macon Georgia Ambulatory Phlebectomy
Ambulatory Phlebectomy
While there are treatment options available for bulging varicose veins, one of the procedures Dr. Harper recommends is ambulatory phlebectomy often in conjunction with the Endovenous Thermal Ablation Closure procedure.
Ambulatory phlebectomy is an outpatient procedure utilizing local anesthesia that removes the large, bulging superficial varicose veins through micro, slit-like incisions in the skin. The micro incisions are closed with suture strips and heal with minimal to no scarring. With ambulatory phlebectomy there is immediate resolution of the bulging varicose veins.
Your Ambulatory Phlebectomy Consultation
If you suffer with varicose veins, we suggest setting up a consultation with Dr. Kenneth Harper. After a thorough history and examination of your veins he will determine which treatment option is best for you. If you have bulging varicose veins, an office based duplex ultrasound examination may be necessary to determine the underlying source of the vein issues.
During your consultation, he will also answer any questions you have and make sure you are comfortable with the treatment recommendations. In order to complete a full evaluation in a single visit, plan on being in the office for 90-120 minutes.
Should you choose to proceed with ambulatory phlebectomy, your treatment will be scheduled for another day allowing time for insurance approval for the procedure. Dr. Harper's staff will provide you with a list of pre-operative instructions. It is important that you follow these closely to get the best possible results.
Your Ambulatory Phlebectomy Treatment
Dr. Harper performs ambulatory phlebectomy on an outpatient basis in his Macon, Georgia office. The enlarged varicose veins are marked and a gentle local anesthetic is injected into the skin around the veins. If desired a mild oral sedative may be administered. The effects of the local anesthetic are long lasting (4-6 hours) and provide excellent analgesia.
Small "micro" incisions (2-3 mm) are made adjacent to your troubled vein(s). The diseased veins are then gently removed, segment by segment, with small hook like instruments. Your veins are collapsible so even large varicose veins can be removed through these tiny incisions. Because the incisions are small, sutures are rarely necessary to close the tiny openings.
On the day of the procedure, you should plan on being in the office for several hours. We respect your time and desire to limit any delays. However, we will take as much time as necessary to make sure you receive the best possible results.
Post Treatment
After ambulatory phlebectomy, Dr. Harper recommends compression stockings to speed the healing process. He also encourages daily exercise. Most patients return to work the next day.
Dr. Harper's staff will go over the post treatment guidelines before and after your procedure. It is important that you follow these instructions to help in your healing process.
Possible Side Effects
Though ambulatory phlebectomy is generally a painless procedure, you may experience some minor side effects. Bruising and swelling are common but should be minimized by wearing compression stockings. The incision sites heal without sutures and after several months are usually not visible. While Dr. Harper will attempt to remove the entire varicose vein during the procedure, in rare cases there may be small segments that remain under your skin. He will review all possible side effects with you during your consultation.
Dr. Kenneth Harper has performed thousands of ambulatory phlebectomies with excellent, functional and cosmetic outcomes. To schedule a consultation, call 478-743-2472.