What is vein stripping and when is it necessary?
Stripping almost always refers to the removal of the greater saphenous vein which lies along the inside of the thigh and lower leg. It is a surgical procedure in which an incision is made in the groin to tie off and divide the top of the vein. A vein stripper is then inserted into the vein. It is generally pushed through the vein above the knee and brought through the skin by a second incision. A small stripping device is then connected to the stripper and it is pulled back through the leg tearing the vein out with it. Pressure is then applied to the leg to reduce bleeding. This procedure is uncomfortable for the patient postoperatively and may result in bruising under the skin that can take months to completely resolve.
