Saratoga Hospital Offers Simple, Outpatient Solution for Varicose Veins

A technologically advanced, minimally invasive approach

Dr. David Hindson, interventional radiologist with Millennium Medical Imaging and medical director of the Varicose Vein Program at Saratoga Hospital

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY, May 9, 2017—Patients with varicose veins who suffer from pain, swelling or cramping from venous insufficiency can now get relief from a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure available at Saratoga Hospital.

Known as endovenous ablation therapy, the technologically advanced treatment uses imaging guidance to insert a narrow tube, or catheter, through a single, tiny cut in the leg. A device at the tip of the catheter heats the inside of the diseased vein and closes it off. Blood is then redirected through the remaining healthy veins.

In many instances, this treatment alone will provide dramatic symptomatic relief. Some patients may need additional treatments, such as local injections or minor surgical removal of residual varicose veins. Even in these cases, treatment and recovery are easier than in the past, when surgery for varicose veins involved multiple incisions and veins were “stripped.”

Dr. David Hindson, medical director of the Varicose Vein Program at Saratoga Hospital, often recommends the new procedure because it involves only local anesthetic and typically takes less than an hour. As long as the procedure is medically necessary, most insurance plans will cover the cost of diagnosis and treatment.

“Most patients can resume normal activities almost immediately,” he said. “In fact, many of my patients have the procedure and drive themselves home afterward.”

The procedure is designed for patients with symptoms of underlying and potentially serious venous disease. Left untreated, this condition can create long-term medical problems.

Symptoms include:

• Leg pain, including a dull ache.
• A vein that is swollen, red, or very tender or warm to the touch.
• Sores or a rash on the leg or near the ankle.
• Skin on the ankle or calf that becomes thick or changes color.
• A varicose vein that starts to bleed.
• Leg symptoms, such as swelling, aching or cramping, that interfere with daily activities.

“Patients who have these symptoms should schedule a screening as soon as possible,” Dr. Hindson said. “As with many medical conditions, early detection and treatment can improve the quality of life and prevent potentially serious complications.”

Patients can schedule a consultation by calling 518-580-2455.

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About Saratoga Hospital: Saratoga Hospital is the Saratoga region’s leading healthcare provider and the only acute-care facility in Saratoga County. With a medical staff of more than 450 providers, the hospital offers care in a broad range of medical specialties at more than 20 locations including its Wilton campus and the Saratoga Medical Park at Malta. The Saratoga Hospital Medical Group ensures easy access to services that can have the greatest impact on both individual and community health. In keeping with its emphasis on quality, Saratoga Hospital was the first in the Capital Region to earn Magnet designation for nursing excellence. On Jan. 1, 2017, Saratoga Hospital finalized its affiliation with Albany Medical Center, joining Columbia Memorial Health in creating a regionally integrated, locally governed healthcare system. For more information: www.saratogahospital.org or www.facebook.com/SaratogaHospital.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Peter Hopper
Director, Marketing and Communications
518.583.8679
phopper@saratogahospital.org