Did you know that there is no ABMS (American Board of Medical Specialities) specialty for venous medicine.  Traditionally, vascular surgeons performed venous stripping procedures for necessary treatment of varicose veins.  They were best equipped to perform these surgical procedures.  As technology improved to minimally-invasive treatments using catheter-based techniques, interventional cardiologists and radiologists with vascular skill sets joined vascular surgeons to meet the demand.

Unfortunately, without any regulation, many non-vascular trained physicians started performing vein ablations in the office or local surgical centers where appropriate credentialing is not tested rigorously. 

Recommendation:

Insist on board-certified doctors in Vascular Surgery, Cardiology or Interventional Radiology. Alternative specialties should be diplomates of the American Board of Vascular and Lymphatic Medicine (ABVLM). 

• As we discussed earlier, modern vein procedures are minimally invasive and more effective than previous techniques involving vein stripping.Modern techniques for vein treatment include:
  • Vein Ablation (both Radiofrequency and Endovenous Laser Ablation)
  • Foam Sclerotherapy
  • Microphlebectomies
  • Sonovein is a promising technology we hope to see FDA approval for in the coming years.

  Ask to see our before and after pics during your consultation.  We also regularly post pictures of our previous work here.

• Don’t just rely on the closest vein center.  Make sure to go to the most qualified vein clinics with verified reviews.  Don’t be afraid to travel a little to get the right treatment.
• Free vein treatment does not exist.  It’s a gimmick used by low-end clinics to attract patients and sometimes perform unnecessary procedures.
• Vein ablations do not cure spider veins.  If you have cosmetic concerns, work closely with your vein doctor to develop a treatment plan that focuses both on your health and cosmetic goals. 

This point is not emphasized enough.  If you are interested in cosmetics, insist on vein clinics that regularly perform sclerotherapy.   If your primary goals include restoring healthy circulation, then insist on your treatment being done by a qualified, board-certified vascular trained specialist.   At the Vein Specialist Centers, we do not have our ultrasound technicians or medical assistants perform any aspects of your procedure.  Believe us, this happens as many “so-called” vein doctors are not well trained in ultrasound or vascular procedure skills!

A confident, skilled vein doctor will provide the opportunity for all procedures to be done under local anesthesia.  This is the most cost-effective and safe method for vein treatment.  After the procedure, you can simply carry on with your usual activities without the worries of sedation.