INDUSTRY INSIGHT
EXPERT VEIN CARE
SPONSORED CONTENT
Varicose veins are more than a cosmetic problem . Vein disease , also known as Chronic venous insufficiency ( CVI ), is an incredibly common and under diagnosed disorder in the United States . The condition develops when the leg veins are no longer able to efficiently pump blood back toward the heart against gravity . The result is “ pooling ” of blood in the legs , particularly the lower legs . This pooling , which tends to worsen over time , eventually leads to physical signs such as spider or varicose veins on the skin surface as well as symptoms including leg heaviness , fatigue , cramps , swelling and restlessness . If left untreated , skin discoloration and open wounds on the lower legs may develop .
There are many reasons why venous insufficiency often goes unrecognized . The gradual onset may lead people to believe that their symptoms are a normal part of the aging process . Others may view spider and varicose veins as merely a cosmetic problem . It is important to remember that veins on the skin surface are often an indication of underlying venous disease that can lead to decreased mobility , skin infections and wounds that are difficult to heal . Also , venous disease may be present without any visible veins on the skin surface .
Your evaluation begins with an office consultation and ultrasound of the legs . Treatment , if needed , is also performed in the office without the need for sedation . Thanks to modern techniques , the days of brutal vein stripping surgeries with hospitalization and long recoveries are over ! Most treatment is completed in under an hour and patients are able to return to their normal activities immediately .
Treatment of symptomatic varicose veins often begins with catheter ablation of diseased
veins . When performed by an experienced physician , these treatments can be nearly painless and will greatly improve quality of life . Greater than 90 % of procedures are also covered by medical insurance and Medicare .
Three Rivers Vein Center located on Vanadium Road in Scott Twp . is currently accepting new patients with lower extremity symptoms such as those mentioned . Dr . Sheri Macrino and Dr . Jason Andrus pride themselves on providing expert level vein care in a comfortable and convenient location . They believe in a personalized approach to treatment that begins with a thorough evaluation . They are also focused on educating both patients and community physicians on spotting the early signs of vein disease and understanding when further evaluation may be appropriate .
CHARTIERS VALLEY ❘ WINTER 2022 29