Varicose Vein Stripping
Surgical treatment of varicose veins for healthy venous circulation
Medical Procedures
Vein stripping is a surgical procedure used to remove large varicose veins from the lower limbs. The procedure helps eliminate the cause of venous insufficiency and improve blood circulation in the affected limb.
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What does the stripping procedure involve?
The procedure involves removing the affected vein, which has incompetent valves, causing blood stagnation and increased pressure in the superficial blood vessels.
The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia and involves:
- Making two small incisions: one in the groin area and one in the calf or ankle;
- Inserting a special instrument called a “stripping” device into the vein;
- Complete or partial removal of the affected veins, depending on the indication;
- Suturing the incisions and bandaging the leg to support healing.
The operation takes between 60 and 90 minutes, and the patient can go home the same day.
When is venous stripping indicated?
Your doctor may recommend this procedure in the following situations:
- Large varicose veins visible on the surface of the skin;
- Pain or heaviness in the legs;
- Swelling of the ankles or calves;
- Skin changes such as hyperpigmentation or stasis dermatitis;
- Venous ulcers or wounds that do not heal;
- Failure of conservative treatments (compression stockings, medication, lifestyle changes).
Stripping treats existing varicose veins and reduces the risk of recurrence.
How do you prepare for surgery?
Before the procedure:
- The doctor will perform a detailed clinical examination and a Doppler ultrasound to identify the affected veins and any thrombosis;
- It is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking;
- You may be asked to temporarily discontinue certain treatments, especially if they can affect blood clotting.
How is the recovery going?
Recovery is generally quick. After the operation, your doctor will give you clear instructions regarding the recovery period:
- You can go home on the same day or after one night in hospital;
- It is recommended that you start walking gently immediately after the operation to stimulate circulation;
- Compression stockings must be worn for several weeks;
- Mild swelling and bruising are normal and will gradually disappear;
- Most patients return to normal activities in about 1-2 weeks.
Benefits of vein stripping
Stripping veins can bring the following benefits:
- Elimination of unpleasant symptoms (pain, swelling, heaviness in the legs);
- Improvement of the aesthetic appearance of the affected limb;
- Reduction of the risk of complications, such as venous ulcers;
- Prevention of recurrence of varicose veins in other venous segments.
What are the risks involved in vein stripping?
Although it is a safe procedure, some complications may occur, such as:
- Infection at the incision sites;
- Hematomas or bleeding;
- Damage to the nerves around the veins;
- Recurrence of varicose veins over time;
- Temporary or permanent sensitivity disorders.
Your doctor will discuss all of these risks with you before the procedure and will monitor you closely to prevent or quickly treat any complications.
When is stripping not recommended?
Vein stripping is not recommended in the following cases:
- Pregnancy;
- Active skin infections;
- Severe coagulation disorders;
- Severe obesity;
- Severe circulatory disorders in the lower limbs.
Alternatives to vein stripping
Depending on the specifics of your case, your doctor may recommend other modern treatments for varicose veins:
- Endovenous laser or radiofrequency ablation;
- Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy;
- Endoscopic surgery for complex cases.
Each option will be discussed with you, depending on the stage of the disease and the therapeutic goals.
Would you like to find out if vein stripping is the right solution for you?
The team of vascular surgery specialists at the VenArt Clinic is at your disposal for assessment and personalized counseling.
- Doctors specialized in vascular surgery;
- Modern diagnostic and treatment equipment;
- Personalized solutions for each patient;
- Complete support before, during, and after the procedure.
We are dedicated to providing you with the best results, with minimal risk and quick recovery. Schedule a consultation and take the first step toward healthy feet!
Medical Team
Frequently Asked Questions
Is vein stripping a painful procedure?
The procedure itself is not painful, as it is performed under general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia. After the procedure, you may experience moderate discomfort, similar to a large bruise, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by your doctor.
How long do I need to wear compression stockings after surgery?
It is usually recommended to wear compression stockings for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. The exact duration may vary depending on your doctor’s recommendations, the severity of your varicose veins, and your postoperative progress.
How long does it take to fully recover?
Most patients resume their normal activities within 1-2 weeks. Intense physical activities or demanding sports may require a longer break of approximately 4-6 weeks.
Can varicose veins reappear after stripping?
Stripping treats existing affected veins, but cannot prevent new varicose veins from appearing in other venous segments. Following medical advice and regular monitoring help prevent recurrence.
What alternatives are there to vein stripping?
In some cases, alternatives such as endovenous laser treatment, radiofrequency, or sclerotherapy may be more appropriate. Your doctor will recommend the best option based on the stage and specifics of your condition.
