Vein ligation & stripping
Find a heart specialistGetting treatment for varicose veins isn’t just for cosmetic purposes. Diseases or problems in your veins that damage the valves can cause blood to build up in areas of your body (venous insufficiency) or even cause it to flow backwards. This can lead to dangerous blood clots and other vein-related conditions. Your doctor may recommend vein ligation or vein stripping to help prevent these complications.
What are vein ligation & vein stripping?
Vein ligation and stripping treat severe cases of varicose veins and symptoms of venous insufficiency by surgically tying veins to prevent blood clots. The surgery helps treat varicose veins and prevent them from returning.
Typically vein ligation and vein stripping are options for people who aren’t candidates for less invasive treatments such as endogenous laser ablation and radio-frequency ablation of the greater saphenous vein. Other minimally invasive treatments include sclerotherapy and microphlebectomy.
Prior to surgery, you'll see your surgeon for personalized guidelines to prepare for surgery including:
- Refraining from eating or drinking anything after midnight the night before your procedure
- How to get ready for your procedure including any medications you may need to stop taking
- Answering your questions and concerns
You’ll arrive at the hospital two hours before the procedure, which takes two to three hours. You’ll receive a local anesthetic, so you’ll be awake but you won’t feel any pain.
In a vein ligation, the affected vein is surgically tied through a small incision in the skin. Vein stripping is the surgical removal of a vein, also done through a small incision.
Typically, neither vein stripping or vein ligation requires a hospital stay. You’ll be in the hospital for a few hours afterward to recover. Be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home.
Before going home, your doctor will go over instructions for care. You should be able to return to work a few days after your procedure and resume regular activities within a week.
You can help lessen any pain and prevent more varicose veins from developing or worsening by following these tips:
- Take frequent breaks to avoid standing or sitting for long periods
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing
- Avoid wearing high heels for long periods
- Exercise to keep the blood moving through your veins
- Maintain a healthy weight
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