Is Surgical Vein Removal Risky for Men and Women?

Venous disorders are common nowadays, and they can affect both men and women. As you are growing old, these problems tend to worsen. The statistics show that these diseases are affecting one out of three women and one out of five men.

However, besides the visible, unaesthetic signs, such as varicose and spider veins, there are also other symptoms that could indicate a venous disorder. These symptoms may be mild or severe, ranging from tiredness and heaviness to bleeding, ulcers, infections and blood clots. Leg cramps, aching pains, itching, restless leg syndrome, and swelling are also factors that can signalize a venous disorder.

As it was already mentioned, varicose veins, as well as spider veins can be extremely unaesthetic. Besides this aspect, they may also trigger serious problems if not treated, such as ulcers. For these reasons, many patients choose to take action regarding this problem. One of the most known solutions is represented by surgical and non-surgical vein removal.

Most specialists agree that surgical vein removal is a very effective method of getting rid of varicose and spider veins, and in some cases it is a necessary procedure. But let's see what this invasive treatment means and what are its risks.

What Is Surgical Vein Removal?

Often done for cosmetic reasons, this surgery has two stages: the ligation, which means the tying and stripping of the veins. This minor surgery is performed for removing a vein that is damaged, and for preventing complications.

The operation consistsof a few incisions - in some cases even a single incision is enough - that help the doctor to eliminate the damaged vein. An instrument is introduced under the affected vein so that it is easy to grasp and remove it. The ligation will not affect any of the healthy veins or valves, as they are left in their place.

The Recovery Period

Generally, such a minor surgery does not require hospitalization. After the patient is recovering from the regional or general anesthesia, he/she will go home. This means that you can return home on the same day of the surgery.

Patients are advised not to work for several days, but they can return to their normal lifestyle and practice any activity, such as sports, after a few weeks.

When Is It Recommended

Surgical vein removal is usually recommended for the patients who have large varicose veins, or when doctors decide that this procedure will prevent complications, such as venous ulcers.

This method is also recommended when patients have already tried other non-invasive treatments, but with no results.

In case you already have a bleeding vein or a varicose skin ulcer, you should do this surgery.

As it is not a major surgical procedure, many patients want to do this removal even when they only experience symptoms such as leg ache and swelling. If their job requires prolonged hour of standing, these problems may affect their daily routine, so they opt for surgical vein removal.

Others are willing to have this surgery only for cosmetic purposes. They are free to have it as long as they don't have some health problems that increase the surgery risks.

When You Shouldn't Have a Surgical Vein Removal

The main risk of this surgery is represented by the local or general anesthesia. For this reason, people who are suffering from health issues that could make a surgery risky because of anesthesia are advised to avoid surgical vein removal. That's why this surgery is not an available option for pregnant women.

If you suffer from poor circulation in the arteries of the legs, you should also not have surgical vein removal.

This procedure should be avoided by people suffering from lymphedema, blood-clotting defects, and skin infections, too.

Alternatives for Surgical Vein Removal

If a surgical vein removal is not recommended for you, but you still want to get rid of those varicose and spider veins, you could opt for a less invasive procedure. In fact, surgery is recommended if the other treatments have not been successful in your case. This means that you should try other options first. Fortunately, there are plenty of non-surgical proceduresfor vein removal. Some of these methods are laser treatment, radio frequency treatment, and phlebectomy. Discuss with your doctor to find out which treatment is the most suitable for you.

by http://www.usaveinclinics.com/