(SEPS) Subfascial Endoscopic Perforator Surgery

Subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery (SEPS) is a minimally invasive procedure performed to treat chronic vein ulcers that develop as a result of deep vein thrombosis, chronic venous insufficiency or other conditions.

A venous ulcer is a small wound that appears on the skin when the leg veins do not carry blood back to the heart, and often causes pain, odor, pus, tenderness and redness. Ulcers often develop in damaged, perforating veins and can lead to prolonged symptoms of venous insufficiency and recurring ulcers.

It is important to treat venous ulcers as soon as they appear to help facilitate the healing process and prevent infection. While there are several conservative treatments available for skin ulcers, more severe cases may require surgery. The SEPS procedure is effective in healing chronic ulcers and preventing serious complications from occurring. Affected veins are disconnected, allowing blood flow to naturally redirect to healthy veins with properly-functioning valves.

SEPS Procedure

During the SEPS procedure, several small incisions are made in the leg, into which a balloon catheter is inserted to separate the surrounding tissue from the veins and identify any affected veins. The targeted veins are then occluded with a clip to disconnect the vein and minimize damage caused by ulcers.

This procedure takes two to three hours to perform on an outpatient basis. Patients can usually return home a few hours after surgery. The SEPS procedure may be performed under regional anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the overall health and personal preference of the patient. Before surgery, patients may need to stop taking certain medications, and should speak with their doctor for specific pre-operative instructions.

Results and Recovery

After the SEPS procedure, patients experience mild discomfort and numbness in the treated area, and will feel somewhat tired during the initial recovery period. Your doctor will provide you with specific post-operative instructions, including resting and keeping the leg elevated, as well as how to care for the wound. Full recovery usually takes one to two weeks, although it may take longer for venous ulcers to heal.

Most patients experience successful results from the SEPS procedure, including a decrease in venous hypertension and increase in circulation. Venous ulcers can be effectively treated with little to no risk of recurrence, allowing patients to benefit from smooth, pain-free legs with proper blood flow.

Risks

As with any type of surgical treatment, there are certain risks associated with the SEPS procedure, including infection, bleeding, nerve damage and recurring symptoms. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you prior to surgery, as well as answer any questions you may have to ensure your safety and comfort during surgery. Any potential risks can be significantly reduced by choosing an experienced surgeon to perform your procedure. SEPS is considered a safe procedure with a very low risk of complications.

To learn more about the SEPS procedure, please call us today to schedule an appointment.