Vein stripping

Vein stripping is a surgical procedure done under general or local anaesthetic to remove varicose veins. The surgery involves making one or more incisions upon the desired area (usually the groin or leg) followed by insertion of a special wire into the vein. The wire is tied to and advanced through the vein to a desired depth. The vein is then pulled out from the body. The incisions are stitched up, and pressure dressings are applied to the incision.

An overnight hospital stay is sometimes required, although some clinics may do it as a day surgery procedure. Patients may be advised to avoid physical activity for days or weeks. A pressure bandage followed by elastic stockings is a common recovery prescription.

Like with any surgery that requires anaesthesia, patients might experience some complications.

Some risks include:

• allergic reactions
• post operative bleeding
• deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism
• nerve injury leading to numbness or weakness in affected area
• infection

See also

• List of surgical procedures
• Medicine
• Surgery
• Anesthesia
• Perioperative mortality