Avulsions of Varicose Veins
What are avulsions?
Avulsions is the name of the technique for removing lumpy varicose veins that cannot be treated by endovenous ablation or traditional surgery alone.
Avulsions can be performed under general and local anaesthesia.
In some patients, the varicose veins are caused by a broken valve in the middle of the thigh or from within the pelvis. These veins can be treated by avulsions.
Avulsions are normally done as part of another procedure such as traditional surgery or EVA but can be the only part of an operation. The codes used for insurers are L8750 +L8751.
How is an avulsion done?
A small hole about 1mm in diameter is made in the skin and the vein underneath is removed with a special hook until the vein snaps. Another hole is then made further along the vein and more is removed.
The whole varicose vein is therefore removed through several small nicks in the skin. They do not need to be stitched.
This part of the operation is not very painful and appears to be as uncomfortable as it would be if you fell into a thorn bush!
The wounds that Veincare Specialists make are so small that, after a few weeks, it is almost impossible to see where the vein has been treated. This therefore gives a good cosmetic result.
Are there any risks to avulsion surgery?
Yes. Apart from the risk of bleeding from the small hole made, some people can develop tender lumps under the skin. These settle with time and are very similar to a blood blister.
Some patients (less than 1 in 100) can develop a wound infection.
Some small nerves that give feeling to the skin can be damaged so the skin may feel numb to touch.
Spider veins can develop at the site of an avulsion and may require scelerotherapy.
Are there any alternatives to avulsions?
Apart from conventional avulsions, the veins can be treated with varicofoam.