11.11.2008
Drs. Rosenberg and McNeill attend American College of Phlebology annual meeting
Garth Rosenberg, MD and Paul M. McNeill, MD (whose three offices of Capitol Vein & Laser are in Frederick, MD and Bethesda, MD and Charles Town, WV) recently attended the annual national meeting on venous disease, the Clinical Congress of the American College of Phlebology. The 4 day event attracted an international audience and included presentations and discussions about the newest and most effective methods for the diagnosis and treatment of varicose veins and venous disease.
Several key points of interest involved the diagnosis of varicose vein disease with new non-invasive diagnostic testing. Duplex scanning has advanced dramatically over the last few years allowing more accurate assessment of venous reflux. As the precise points of vein valve leakage are determined, we are able to accurately direct treatments that are individualized to each patient. Treatments now are more successful due to the improved diagnostics.
There were a number of papers presented about saphenous vein ablation which treats the root cause of most varicose veins. As is recognized, reflux in either great or small saphenous vein is commonly associated with bulging lower leg varicose veins. It was interesting to note that one study showed the endovenous ablation (VNUS Closure) is equally effective in larger diameter veins and small diameter veins.
In addition, there were seminars on micro-phlebectomy which enables the physicians to almost painlessly remove surface varicose veins. We have found that patients do exceptionally well having this procedure done in the office under local anesthesia (as opposed to going to a surgical center or hospital for deeper anesthesia).
Advances in sclerotherapy solutions and techniques have given patients much greater satisfaction in eliminating unsightly spider veins. The agents used in Europe and America differ to a degree, but all cause a minor injury to the vein wall, allowing the body to absorb these small veins leaving no scarring. These cosmetic vein procedures are highly effective.
Most treatments of larger, bulging veins are covered by most insurance payers. There is a recognition untreated venous reflux is a source of significant patient discomfort in addition to being a health risk in some individuals. In attesting to the benefits of vein care, quality of life studies have shown significant benefits to patients who present with significant venous insufficiency.
Finally, as two of only four board certified phlebologists in Maryland, Drs. Rosenberg and McNeill were honored with other board certified physicians during the meeting in Marco Island, Florida. The American College of Phlebology was originally founded in 1985 and now has over 2000 members, some of whom reside outside the United States. The ACP continues its efforts to educate the medical community about phlebology and the College by participating in a number of educational conferences.
