PIN stripping involves removing the vein by bringing it into itself, similar to turning a sock inside out. It is considered to be a more gentle surgery and is different from the older traditional “vein strippings” done in the past. During a 45 minute in-office procedure, the involved area is anesthetized and the leg is prepped.  A small incision is made in the groin and the inner knee.  The vein is closed at the top and bottom and then removed through the lower incision.  A pressure dressing is applied to the leg and left on for 48 hours.  This will be followed by your prescribed support stockings for several weeks.

You may experience mild tenderness and bruising for the first several days.  This is generally well managed with ice applications and the use of over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen.

We ask that you not work the day of the procedure and some patients opt to take the following day off.  When sitting or lying down, your legs should be elevated higher than your heart.  Walking immediately following the procedure is encouraged.  Prolonged standing or sitting the day after the procedure should be limited.  You are able to resume normal activities following the procedure.

Risks and Complications of PIN stripping are rare, but may include:

• Bleeding
• Swelling
• Numbness in area around the incisions
• Clots in deep veins of legs
• Reactions to the anesthetic
• Infection