Trendelenberg and Strip Procedure for Varicose Veins

Why is the operation necessary?

Varicose veins are swollen veins on the surface of the leg. These occur because of increased pressure in the veins, usually due to damaged valves. This increased pressure in the veins can also lead to symptoms like aching, throbbing, tired legs, or to more serious problems like inflammation of the veins, swelling, bleeding, darkening and thickening of the skin and non-healing wounds called ulcers.

What is the procedure?

Trendelenberg and Strip Procedure is performed in the hospital under anaesthesia. A small cut is made in the groin to open the area where the superficial vein with the faulty valves joins the deep vein. The superficial vein is disconnected from the deep vein and stripped (removed) from the thigh. The enlarged branches are removed through small micro puncture wounds using vein hooks. This is called phlebectomy or multiple avulsions.

What are the treatments for the diabetic foot?

Once you have developed complications related to the diabetic foot, you need to be extra vigilant about new symptoms and sores and do not delay in seeking advice from your doctor.

You will rely on a team of healthcare professionals to assist you in preserving the function of your feet and legs e.g. family doctor, podiatrist, endocrinologist or physician and a vascular surgeon. You should consult with a vascular surgeon if you have a history of infected ulcers, or peripheral artery disease.

Lifestyle changes can reduce the symptoms and slow the progression of peripheral artery disease.

We take a special interest in managing the problems which affect the legs and feet of our patients who have diabetes, with the goal of preserving normal function and mobility.

Are there any alternative treatments available?

Varicose veins can be managed non-operatively with elastic compression stockings, elevating the legs when resting, losing weight and keeping active. Stockings can control symptoms like swelling and may prevent progression of skin issues, however, they need to be worn whenever you are up and about. A common problem is that many patients do not find them very comfortable or tolerable, especially in hot weather.

The minimally invasive, catheter-based techniques using either heat (radiofrequency or laser), super glue or a chemical sclerosant are the preferred methods today. They work as well as the open technique but have the advantage of less pain and bruising and quicker recovery. The Trendelenburg and strip procedure may be recommended because your vein is not suitable for minimally invasive techniques, either because it is too superficial to the skin, has clots or is too squiggly to pass the catheter.

Varicose veins can also be treated with sclerotherapy which involves injecting an irritant into the vein to cause it to block off and shrivel up.