Vein Ligation and Stripping - Varicose Vein Surgery

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins, most commonly located in the legs. There are several ways to remove or treat these damaged veins.

Who is a candidate for the procedure?

Surgery can be done for most people who want to have varicose veins removed. Surgery is usually advised if symptoms are severe and don't respond to other therapy. Many people have surgery because they don't like the way the veins look.

How is the procedure performed?

There are a number of ways to remove or treat varicose veins. The procedure used depends on their location and severity. Surgeons may also have methods they prefer.

The procedure may be done with local anesthesia or general anesthesia. Local anesthesia means that numbing medication is injected under the skin where the cuts will be made. General anesthesia means the person is put to sleep with medications. The surgeon usually decides the type of pain control after talking with the person before surgery.

Procedures used to treat varicose veins include:

What happens right after the procedure?

After the surgery, the person will be taken to the surgery recovery room to be watched closely for a short time. Vital signs, blood pressure, pulse, and breathing will be checked frequently. Bandages are usually placed over any cuts. Those who have had more complex surgery may need to stay in the hospital overnight. Most other people will be able to go home a few hours after surgery. If sedatives or general anesthesia were used, someone else must drive the person home.

What happens later at home?

The surgeon or the staff will explain care of any bandages before the person goes home. Swelling and bruising are common when cuts are made. The person will generally have very little pain. Over-the-counter pain medications are usually used for pain, but a prescription pain medication may be given. Most people are able to return to normal activity with 3 or 4 days. While these procedures do cure varicose veins, new varicose veins can appear and need treatment.

What are the potential complications after the procedure?

All surgeries have possible complications. These include bleeding, infection, and reactions to any pain medications used. Small areas of skin numbness can be caused by nerve damage, and these are sometimes permanent. Blood clots may form in the veins, a rare but possibly serious problem. Most people have few or no problems and recover without difficulty.

Author:Adam Brochert, MD
Date Written:
Editor:Duff, Ellen, BA
Edit Date:06/23/00
Reviewer:Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
Date Reviewed:04/09/01

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