The phlebectomy probe: a new and useful instrument for ambulatory phlebectomy.

Abstract

Tethering of varicose veins by periadventitial connective tissue can limit the length of vein segment that can be avulsed during ambulatory phlebectomy. A thin, malleable blunt probe is described which can dissect connective tissue adhesions surrounding varicose veins. This probe can be used as an endoluminal probe to localize elusive veins. We describe the use of a new type of phlebectomy probe for periadventitial dissection and endoluminal probing during ambulatory phlebectomy. The techniques of periadventitial dissection and endoluminal probing are reviewed. The phlebectomy probe seems to permit extraction of longer segments of varicose veins after releasing periadventitial adhesions. Endoluminal probing can assist in difficult localization of venous segments. The phlebectomy probe can be helpful for releasing periadventitial adhesions that tether varicose veins. Its application is simple and can result in increased length of avulsed varicose vein segments, thereby reducing the number of incisions needed.