EVLT, phlebectomy under general anesthesia?

Question

Why would the surgeon have me be put under general anesthesia for this procedure. I keep reading how its normally done under local anesthetic? Is there a preference to which one is better? I know general anesthesia is riskier. This is also being done at a surgery center! There is no other option.

Jerimiah Mason, MD · Answer

You definitely do not need general anesthesia for these procedures. Both can be done in the office setting with local (tumescent) anesthesia, and are very straightforward procedures. 
Unfortunately, if the surgeon is employed by a hospital, they can coerce the surgeon to bring you to the operating room so the hospital can make more money off of the procedure. I've seen it happen before.

Thomas Wright, MD · Answer

EVLT and Varicose Veins can be treated very safely and effectively with local / tumescent anesthesia in an outpatient or office based venue.  Today, there is no need to undergo general anesthesia or have the procedures done in a surgery. Both general anesthesia and surgery centers add a good deal of cost to the treatments and offer in my opinion no advantages.

EVLT, phlebectomy under general anesthesia?

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