Plymouth Vein Clinic, Devon. Specialists in Varicose Veins
Surgery for Varicose Veins
1. What are Varicose Veins?
Veins are the blood vessels that carry blood back to the heart. Varicose veins are abnormally swollen (dilated) veins that are visible just below the surface of the skin. Smaller veins in the skin itself are sometimes called "thread veins" or "spider veins". Although these may be unsightly they are not the same as varicose veins.
2. Before your Operation.
Your surgeon may suggest that if you are taking the oral contraceptive pill, it should be stopped one month before the operation. This is to reduce the risk of thrombosis. However, it is very important that you think about other contraceptive methods. Alternatively, he may give you an injection to thin the blood before the operation. You may be called for a pre-admission visit about one week before your actual date to make sure you are fit for the operation. The operation is usually performed as a day-case. However, if you are having both legs operated upon, or if you have any medical problems, it is usual to remain in hospital overnight.
3. Coming into Hospital.
You will be asked to come in either the day before, or on the morning of, your operation. Please bring with you any medicines you are taking and show them to the doctor. You will be received in the ward by a nurse who will note your personal details. You will also be visited by the surgeon who is to perform your operation, who will mark the position of the veins, and the doctor who will give your anaesthetic. Many people are concerned about anaesthetics, so please ask the anaesthetist if you have any specific worries so that he may reassure you. All of these people are ready to answer any questions you may have, so please ask.
4. The Operation.
This is performed under a general or local anaesthetic. The commonest operation is where a cut is made in the groin over the top of the main varicose vein. This is then tied off where it meets the deeper veins ligation). If possible, the main varicose vein on the inner aspect of the leg is then stripped out. Blood can still flow up the leg along deeper, unaffected veins. The cut in the groin is closed with a stitch, usually hidden under the skin. The other veins marked before the operation are then pulled out of tiny cuts. This is called (micro) Phlebectomy (some surgeons may use subsequent injections for this part of the operation). These are then closed with adhesive strips or stitches. Some other veins may be affected, especially one behind the knee. Special scans may be needed before the operation, and this will be explained to you.
A dressing will be placed on the cut in the groin, and your leg will be bandaged up to the top of the thigh. The bandages put on at the operation will stay on your leg until you are advised to remove them by your specialist but this is usually about 7 days.
