Surgical stripping of varicose veins is one type of varicose veins treatment to get rid of the ugly and painful varicose veins. Varicose veins are veins, which are usually located in the legs, that have become enlarged and may be painful. These are usually caused by standing for long periods of time without the proper support. They can also be caused by poor circulation. They may not be bothersome for some people, but they can cause the legs to ache can cause pain. Surgical stripping is a procedure that will tie off the vein and then remove it from the leg or affected area.
The Procedure
Surgical stripping is done under general anesthesia. To begin, the surgeon will make an incision near the groin area in able to see the varicose vein. He will then tie off the vein. Then, your surgeon will make more incisions along the inside of your leg from the top of the thigh to just underneath the knee. He will use a special vein tool that is inserted through each incision into the vein. This is how the vein is removed.
After the procedure is finished, you will be taken to the recovery room while the anesthesia wears off. Once the anesthesia is worn off, you should be able to return home, unless there were complications with the surgery or anesthesia. If there were complications, you may need to remain in the hospital for a night or two. During the procedure, other veins may be broken. This can make the recovery time to be more painful and cause bruising. This should be expected.
The Recovery
Your total recovery time will be around four weeks as long as there are no complications with the surgery or recovery time. During the first part of your recovery, you may need some help with driving and getting around. You may also be given pain medication to help relieve any discomfort. You should not drive while taking these medications. You will also experience bruising and tenderness during the recovery time, but if it is overwhelming, you should call your doctor. Make sure that you do not over do it or it may cause a set back. Your doctor will give you a full list of things that you can and cannot do during this time.
Risks of Surgical Stripping
There are risks associated with surgical stripping of varicose veins. There is the risk of developing and infection at the incision sites. If this does happen, it is important that you contact your doctor immediately to prevent any further set back. Other risks associated with the surgery may include bleeding, scarring and the possibility of the surgery not working.
Surgical stripping is a procedure used by many doctors and surgeons to help get rid of varicose veins. Many people who suffer from varicose veins do not like the appearance of the veins and wish to have them removed. If you suffer from varicose veins and would like to have them treated, talk to your doctor about if surgical stripping is the right procedure for you.
