Varicose vein surgery, also known as vein stripping or phlebectomy, aims to treat and alleviate the symptoms of varicose veins by removing or closing off damaged veins. Several surgical approaches exist, with the choice depending on the severity of the varicose veins and the patient's overall health. Common procedures include vein ligation and stripping, phlebectomy, and endovenous ablation.

Types of Varicose Vein Surgery

• Vein Ligation and Stripping : Involves making incisions to tie off (ligation) and remove (stripping) larger varicose veins.
• Phlebectomy :
  Uses small incisions to remove smaller varicose veins with a hook.
• Endovenous Ablation : Uses heat (laser or radiofrequency) to close off varicose veins.
• Sclerotherapy : Involves injecting a solution to close off smaller varicose veins and spider veins.

When is surgery considered?

• Symptomatic varicose veins : When conservative treatments (like compression stockings) don't provide sufficient relief.
• Severe varicose veins : When they cause pain, swelling, or skin ulcers.
• For cosmetic reasons : In some cases, surgery is performed to improve the appearance of the legs.

Procedure Details

• Vein Ligation and Stripping : Involves making incisions, tying off the vein, and then removing it with a wire and stripping device.
• Phlebectomy : Uses small punctures to remove the veins using a hook.
• Endovenous Ablation : A catheter with a heated tip is inserted into the vein and pulled through, causing the vein to close.
• Sclerotherapy : Involves injecting a solution into the vein to cause it to collapse and fade.

Risks and Complications

• Infection : Any surgery carries a risk of infection.
• Pain and swelling : Pain and swelling are common after surgery.
• Bruising : Bruising is a common side effect.
• Nerve damage : Nerve damage is a rare but possible complication.
• Blood clots : Blood clots are a rare but serious complication.
• Changes in skin color : Brownish spots or matting of small vessels may occur.
• Scarring : Scarring may occur, particularly with larger incisions.