BACKGROUND: Ambulatory phlebectomy, as described by Muller, is a remarkable esthetic, effective, and cost-sparing technique for definitive removal of varicose veins. As this technique is becoming more and more popular, potential complications and incidents have to be recognized by all phlebologists. OBJECTIVE: To review all possible complications after ambulatory phlebectomy and establish their frequency, relevance, treatment, and prevention. METHODS: Extensive review of the European and American literature devoted to phlebectomy, with particular consideration of the complications, are discussed in comparison with the author's personal experience. CONCLUSIONS: Notable adverse incidents after ambulatory phlebectomy are rare. Minor inconveniences are common, depending partially on surgical indications, operator's skill, and experience. Adequate training allows one to minimize untoward reactions. A great risk of ambulatory phlebectomy is the presumed facility of this surgical technique combined with its easy accessibility to poorly trained physicians in phlebology and dermatologic surgery.
BACKGROUND: Ambulatory phlebectomy, as described by Muller, is a remarkable esthetic, effective, and cost-sparing technique for definitive removal of varicose veins. As this technique is becoming more and more popular, potential complications and incidents have to be recognized by all phlebologists. OBJECTIVE: To review all possible complications after ambulatory phlebectomy and establish their frequency, relevance, treatment, and prevention. METHODS: Extensive review of the European and American literature devoted to phlebectomy, with particular consideration of the complications, are discussed in comparison with the author's personal experience. CONCLUSIONS: Notable adverse incidents after ambulatory phlebectomy are rare. Minor inconveniences are common, depending partially on surgical indications, operator's skill, and experience. Adequate training allows one to minimize untoward reactions. A great risk of ambulatory phlebectomy is the presumed facility of this surgical technique combined with its easy accessibility to poorly trained physicians in phlebology and dermatologic surgery.