Duplex
ultrasound examination will pinpoint the veins
that require treating and these will be marked
prior to surgery.
Usually
performed as a day case or with one night
in hospital as a general aneasthetic is required.
Spinal aneasthesia can be used as an alternative
in some cases.
A
special Swiss instrument is used to perform
inverted stripping, a method that causes less
bruising and pain.
Smaller
visible veins are removed with Swiss Oesch
hooks which require a tiny nick in the skin
and no stitches. These heal without scarring.
Compression
stockings are worn for two weeks and patients
may find it necessary to take 1-2 weeks off
work. It is not permissible to drive for 48
hours but driving may be resumed when the
patient is able to comfortably perform an
emergency stop. It is advisable to walk regularly
throughout the day
Following
surgery the remaining reticular varices and
thread veins can be treated with sclerotherapy
