Ambulatory phlebectomy, performed at Minneapolis Vein Center in Plymouth, is a minimally invasive surgical technique to remove medium to large varicose veins. Using a special set of tools, the vascular physicians make tiny incisions in the skin to remove the affected veins. Incisions are so tiny that stitches are not required. Once the diseased vein is removed, other healthy veins take over. As normal blood flow is re-established, your symptoms should improve noticeably.
Who should consider phlebectomy?
Experience has shown that the vast majority of patients with superficial venous reflux disease can be treated with ambulatory phlebectomy. A diagnostic ultrasound exam and consultation is advised.
Phlebectomy: What to Expect
Your legs will be evaluated using ultrasound and the vein will be marked using a skin marker. Local anesthesia will be given at the incision site to numb the entire area. Skin incisions as small as 1mm are used to extract veins with a phlebectomy hook. The hook is inserted into an incision in the leg, and a section of the vein is hooked and removed through the incision.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure itself takes approximately 45-60 minutes, though patients normally spend 2 hours at the Minneapolis Vein Center.
What happens after the procedure?
Following your procedure, you will go home with your leg wrapped in a compression bandage. You will be advised to rest at home with your leg elevated to decrease any bleeding
or swelling, although getting up and walking occasionally is recommended. The day after your procedure, you’ll begin wearing a compression stocking. Stockings are worn for 1 week. Bruising and tenderness can occur for a few weeks following the procedure.
What results can I expect?
Ambulatory phlebectomy offers permanent vein removal with virtually no scarring, skin discoloration, or ulcers.
How do I prepare?
In most cases, no special preparation is needed for your phlebectomy. However, because you will be sedated for the procedure, we ask that you refrain from eating or drinking 4 hours prior to your appointment. You may continue taking any medications as you normally would, but please notify us if you are taking any anticoagulants (blood thinners). Patients scheduled for phlebectomy should be accompanied and arrange for transportation as they will be sedated for the procedure.
Does insurance cover this procedure?
Most insurance companies do provide coverage for ambulatory phlebectomy. Our business office representatives are always available to assist you with questions about your health coverage, claim submissions, or payment.
Schedule an Appointment
In addition to ambulatory phlebectomy, our physicians perform other procedures to treat spider and varicose veins, including sclerotherapy and venous ablation. During your initial consultation, we will discuss these treatment options with you and determine the most appropriate option for you.
To discover the treatment path for your specific needs, schedule a consultation with the Minneapolis Vein Center team. Online scheduling is available, or you can just call the office to set up an appointment.
Conditions We Treat
Quick Links
Pay your bills securely online with credit cards, debit cards, or checks.
(763) 398-8710
veincenter@mplsrad.com
2800 Campus Drive, Suite 20
Plymouth, MN 55441
