Ambulatory Phlebectomy

ABSTRACT

Approximately 2400 years ago, Hippocrates performed the first phlebotomy to treat a varix. Since that time, modifications to the removal of varicose vein have evolved. It was Dr. Muller, a Swiss dermatologist, who reinvented and refined the technique of ambulatory phlebectomy. Although this technique was adopted slowly, it is now considered the standard method for treating varicose veins. The procedure is performed on an ambulatory patient under local anesthesia with little, if any, recovery time. After approximately a 2-mm puncture or incision made by an 18-gauge needle or a 15-degree ophthalmic blade, a small hook-like instrument coupled with fine clamps is employed to extract the varix. A dry sterile compression dressing and or class 2 stocking is applied. Significant complications are rare.

KEYWORDS

Varicose vein - phlebectomy - stab avulsion - vein treatment

REFERENCES

• 1 Ricci S. Ambulatory Phlebectomy. St. Louis; Mosby 1995
• 2 Kabnick L. Should we consider a paradigm shift for the treatment of GSV and branch varicosities?. Abstract at the 2003 UIP World Congress Phlebology Chapter Meeting August 2003 San Diego;
• 3 Dortu J, Raymond-Martimbeau P. Ambulatory Phlebectomy. Houston; PMR Editions 1993
• 4 Olivencia J A. Complications of ambulatory phlebectomy: review of 1,000 consecutive cases.  Dermatol Surg. 1997;  23 51-54
• 5 Olivencia J A. Ambulatory phlebectomy turned 2400 years old.  Dermatol Surg. 2004;  30 704-708