Crestwood Vein Center Performs Advancements to Treat Varicose Veins

There’s renewed hope for sufferers of painful, unsightly varicose veins. Crestwood Medical Center has now opened a Vein Center which offers patients a state-of-the-art procedure called endovenous therapy for treating varicose veins without the need for a hospital stay, general anesthesia or even stitches.

In endovenous therapy, a small needle stick is made in to the varicose vein, which has been numbed with local anesthetic. A very thin catheter is then inserted into the vein and directed to the desired treatment location. When the catheter is activated, thermal energy is delivered, causing the vein to close. The catheter is gradually withdrawn until the entire diseased vessel is treated. The whole procedure lasts less than 30 minutes. After treatment, patients can walk immediately and return to normal activities.

“Endovenous therapy is a great advancement for patients and we are pleased to bring this medical advancement to the community,” says Dr. Andrew Knott, Board Certified Vascular Surgeon, emphasizing the convenience of a treatment in which all procedures, from initial workup to the actual therapy, are conducted in-office. “Many insurance companies now cover endovenous therapy because it has become so well-established as a safe and effective treatment for varicose veins. More astonishing than the outpatient nature of the endovenous therapy is that patients can literally walk home after the procedure.”

To counteract the forces of gravity, veins have valves that prevent blood from flowing backwards as it is pumped back toward the heart. Over time, these valves can weaken, allowing the blood to pool inside the vein. This can cause the vein to distend, resulting in the “rope-like” appearance commonly associated with varicose veins. This condition can lead to a range of serious circulatory problems, including blood clots, leg ulcers and poor circulation.

“Varicose veins are a very common problem – approximately 25% of women and 15% of men in the United States suffer from this condition,” said Dr. Knott. “Women are prone to suffer from varicose veins because of pregnancy, and heredity has been shown to be a contributory factor as well. We are pleased to now offer treatment that helps men and women improve their condition and overall health.”

Call 429.4888 to schedule a free screening.