Vein Ligation and Stripping

Surgery Overview

Vein ligation and stripping is a minor surgery. It is used to remove one or more varicose veins. These are twisted, swollen veins near the surface of the skin. They are most common in the legs and ankles. The surgery can also be done to prevent venous skin ulcers from coming back after treatment.

You may be asleep during the surgery, but it also can be done while you are awake. If you are awake, you will get medicine to numb your leg and prevent pain. The doctor will make small cuts in the area and then tie off (ligation) and remove the vein (stripping).

You will probably go home the same day as the surgery. You will need to take it easy at home for at least a few days after the surgery. How long it takes for you to recover depends on how many veins are removed.

After surgery, other veins in the legs will take over the work of the veins that are removed.

Information about Vein Ligation and Stripping

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

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