BWWMH adds varicose vein treatment

The Vein Center at Bryan W. Whitfield Memorial Hospital has recently added the VenaCure EVLT procedure to its surgical services. VenaCure EVLT is a fast, safe and minimally invasive laser vein treatment for the elimination of varicose veins that is more than 95 percent effective.

Dr. Keith Roberts of Two Rivers Surgical Associates who is trained in the procedure said that “approximately 40 percent of all women and 25 percent of all men have varicose veins. Because the traditional treatment for this condition, surgical vein stripping and ligation, tends to be a painful procedure with a lengthy recovery time, patients who suffer from varicose veins often decide to just suffer with them.”

In the VenaCure EVLT treatment, a laser fiber is inserted into the vein through a tiny puncture site. The laser energizes the fiber as it is withdrawn from the vein. Energy emitted from the tip of the fiber causes only the treated vein to close, while the body automatically routes the blood to other healthy veins. The patient receives only local anesthetic and experiences little to no discomfort during the 45 minute procedure. After treatment, a patient can simply walk out of the office and resume normal activities immediately.

“This is a varicose vein treatment that’s perfect for today’s busy lifestyles,” notes Dr. Roberts. “Patients can look and feel better almost immediately – and with very little inconvenience. They don’t have to disrupt their normal schedules. It’s very rewarding when advancements in medical technology enable us to provide an alternative that’s far superior to older treatments – and is now replacing them as the treatment of choice.”

Jan McDonald, of Demopolis, had this procedure at BWWMH three years ago before the facility added the new and improved system. “The difference before and after the procedure is remarkable,” she said. “I no longer have the deep ache in my leg and now life is a lot nicer.” She noted that a great side effect of the varicose vein procedure is that “a lot of the bumpiness from the veins are gone and my legs look much better.”

McDonald emphasized not only the ease and painlessness of the procedure, but also the smooth recovery period. “I was able to resume my regular regimen, including exercising, within just a few days. There was also no pain with the recovery.”

Three years after her surgery, McDonald encourages anyone with varicose veins to look into having this procedure. “I have found it very worthwhile and have absolutely no negative issues since it was done.”

“We are very excited to add this procedure to our already impressive surgical services menu,” said Mike Marshall, CEO. “As we continue to grow the surgical services offered at BWWMH, we are currently working to add a minimally invasive treatment of peripheral artery disease in the near future.”

For more information about the VenaCure EVLT procedure or to schedule an evaluation, contact Two Rivers Surgical Associates at 334-287-2847.