|
Varicose vein surgery Description:
Varicose veins usually occur in the legs. The valves in the veins become damaged and the veins remain filled with blood. The varicose veins can be treated by removing them (vein stripping) or by injection with a substance that causes the veins to scar closed
(sclerotherapy). Removing or treating varicose veins does not cause circulation problems because veins can re-route themselves (collateral circulation) around a blockage.
Vein stripping is done while the patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia). Incisions are made at the bottom (ankle end) and at the top (groin end) of the varicose vein. A thin wirelike instrument is inserted into the vein which removes (strips) the vein from the inside.
Vein sclerotherapy is done while the patient is standing. A substance that causes scarring (sclerosing agent) is injected into each varicose vein. An elastic bandage is wrapped snugly around the legs.
Many times, both procedures are performed; some of the veins are stripped and some are sclerosed.
Indications:
Varicose vein surgery may be recommended for:
What to Expect After:
When indicated, the long-term benefits of the majority of patients (over 85%) who have undergone this surgery are good. It is important that feet are kept raised above the heart whenever possible. Losing a few veins has little consequence since the remaining deeper veins can take over by stretching their walls, holding larger volumes, and opening collateral pathways. This adaptation process can sometimes lead to more varicose veins and repeat surgeries in 30% of the cases.
The outcome is good in about two-thirds of the patients who undergo sclerotherapy. In one-third of the patients, inflammation with rupture of blood flow and skin discoloration are persistent several months following surgery.
Convalescence:
A hospital stay may not be required. After surgery, the legs are wrapped tightly in bandages. Walking is possible the first day after surgery and is recommended to minimize swelling and avoid the risk of deep venous thrombosis . It is important that feet are kept raised above the heart whenever possible.
Risks:
Risks for any anesthesia are: Risks for any surgery are: Additional risks include: - blood clots (call your doctor if your feet become cold or change color)
- irritation of the vein from the sclerosing solution
- the sclerosing solution can obstruct blood flow
- leakage of the sclerosing solution out of the veins into other tissue (it can damage the surrounding tissue)
Cost:
The costs of any surgery varies significantly between surgeons, medical facilities, and regions of the country. Patients who are younger, sicker, or need more extensive surgery will require more intensive and expensive treatment.
Surgery charges can be separated into five parts: 1) the surgeon's fee, 2) the anesthesiologist's fee, 3) the hospital charges, which includes nursing care and the operating room, 4) the medications, and 5) additional charges.
1. Surgeon's fee: approximately $1,000 to$2,000
2. Anesthesiologist's fee: averages $350 to $400 per hour
3. Hospital charges: basic rate averages $1,500 to $1,800 per day (more for the intensive care unit (ICU) or private rooms)
4. Medication charges: $200 to $400
5. Additional charges: assisting surgeon, treatment of complications, diagnostic procedures (such as blood or X-ray exams), medical supplies, or equipment use.
Insurance coverage for surgery expenses depends on many factors and should be explored for each individual instance.
Picture:
P0680.pctVaricose veins - in the legs
Vessels in the legs contain valves that help support the column of blood. With aging, these valves may become incompetent and the veins dilate. Varicose veins may lead to discomfort, skin ulceration, and clot problems (superficial venous thrombosis). Varicose veins tend to run in families.
Varicosities on the ankle: Vessels in the legs contain valves that help support the column of blood. With aging, these valves may become incompetent and the veins dilate. Varicose veins may lead to discomfort, skin ulceration, and clot problems (superficial venous thrombosis). Varicose veins tend to run in families. Here, the varicosities are located on the ankle.
|
