Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Synergizing Antegrade Endoscopic with Bridging Vein Harvesting for Improvement of Great Saphenous Vein Graft Quality from the Lower Leg
Published on: November 19, 2019
Ambulatory phlebectomy
Lowell S Kabnick1, Michael Ombrellino
1Clinical Assistant Professor, UMDNJ-Newark, New Jersey, and Morristown Memorial Hospital, Morristown, New Jersey.
Abstract:
Approximately 2400 years ago, Hippocrates performed the first phlebotomy to treat a varix. Since that time, modifications to the removal of varicose vein have evolved. It was Dr. Muller, a Swiss dermatologist, who reinvented and refined the technique of ambulatory phlebectomy. Although this technique was adopted slowly, it is now considered the standard method for treating varicose veins. The procedure is performed on an ambulatory patient under local anesthesia with little, if any, recovery time. After approximately a 2-mm puncture or incision made by an 18-gauge needle or a 15-degree ophthalmic blade, a small hook-like instrument coupled with fine clamps is employed to extract the varix. A dry sterile compression dressing and or class 2 stocking is applied. Significant complications are rare.
Related Concept Videos
Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
Peripheral Artery Disease III: Interprofessional Care
Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Venous Thrombosis IV: Nursing Management
