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Int J Angiol 2012; 21(04): 201-208
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1330229
Original Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Treatment of Varicose Veins by Transilluminated Powered Phlebectomy Surgery: A 9-Year Experience

Randall W. Franz
1   The Vascular and Vein Center at Grant Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio
,
Jodi F. Hartman
2   Orthopaedic Research & Reporting, Ltd., Gahanna, Ohio
,
Michelle L. Wright
2   Orthopaedic Research & Reporting, Ltd., Gahanna, Ohio
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
20 November 2012 (online)

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Abstract

Transilluminated powered phlebectomy (TIPP) is a minimally invasive technique for varicose vein removal that addresses some limitations of traditional procedures. The study objective was to analyze perioperative and follow-up outcomes after TIPP and present modifications gleaned over 9 years of performing the technique. Four hundred and thirty-one patients who underwent TIPP performed between June 2002 and April 2011 were included in this retrospective review. Descriptive statistics were used to describe demographic, treatment, and outcome data. The mean procedure time was 20.2 minutes. The majority (50.5%) of cases involved 10 to 20 incisions. No significant varicosities were reported at a follow-up of 12 weeks. Postoperative complications included 2 (0.5%) deep vein thromboses, 8 (1.9%) cellulitis episodes, 16 (3.7%) hemosiderin staining cases, 2 (0.5%) abscesses, and 2 (0.5%) cases of excessive or hypertrophic scarring. All but one patient reported good outcomes and were satisfied with the procedure. With proper training and experience, TIPP with a lower oscillation frequency and secondary tumescence results in good outcome and high patient satisfaction.

Keywords

TriVex - transilluminated powered phlebectomy - powered phlebectomy - varicose veins - venous surgery
 

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