Varicose vein surgery means tying off or removing the faulty surface vein and taking out swollen branches through small surgical cuts. In Amman it is considered when non-surgical options such as laser, radiofrequency or injections do not suit the case, and the decision is made after an examination and a Doppler ultrasound.
Note: Surgery is not the only way to treat varicose veins. Read also about non-surgical varicose vein treatment; the decision is made after an examination and a discussion of the options.
When is varicose vein surgery considered?
- Troublesome varicose veins not helped enough by compression stockings.
- A vein that is very twisted, wide or close to the skin in a way that does not suit laser or radiofrequency.
- Large varicose branches that need removing.
- Some cases of varicose veins returning after previous treatment.
- Non-surgical methods are not available or not suitable for the patient.
What does surgery treat?
Surgery treats the cause of varicose veins, which is backflow in a surface vein with weak valves, and removes the visible swollen veins.
- Backflow in the great or small saphenous vein.
- Large varicose branches.
- Some symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency.
Diagnosis
Your doctor examines your legs, asks about your symptoms, health history and medicines, and checks your general health to make sure the operation and anaesthetic are suitable.
Your doctor may request a Doppler ultrasound to map the faulty vein precisely, and other tests may be needed before surgery depending on your case.
Where surgery fits among the options
Surgery sits at the end of a step-by-step plan that starts with the simplest option:
Whether surgery is chosen depends on your scan, the shape of your veins and your general health. Your doctor will explain the possible benefits and risks of each option before you decide.
- Lifestyle changes and compression stockings.
- Sclerotherapy for small and medium veins.
- Laser or radiofrequency treatment to close the main vein without a surgical cut.
- Removing swollen branches through very small cuts, alone or with another treatment.
- Tying off and removing the main vein surgically when other methods are not suitable.
What to expect on the day and after
The operation is done under an anaesthetic chosen by the medical team for your case, and many patients go home the same day. The team will explain fasting and medicine instructions beforehand.
- You are usually encouraged to walk after surgery as your doctor advises.
- You may be asked to wear compression stockings or bandages for a period your doctor will set.
- Bruising, pain and swelling of the leg are common and ease gradually.
- Care for the wounds as the team explains, and watch for redness or discharge.
- Return to work and normal activity varies, and your surgeon will explain what to expect in your case.
When to book an appointment
- Troublesome varicose veins that have not improved with simple measures.
- You want to know whether surgery or another method may suit you more.
- Skin changes or a slow-healing wound on the lower leg.
- After surgery: fever, wound discharge or painful leg swelling, which should prompt you to contact your doctor straight away.