Dr. Robert Napoletano is pleased to introduce the formation of "The Vein Center of Grove Hill."
Venous disease of the lower extremities affects over 25 million people, most of whom suffer indefinitely. Fortunately, there is now a new minimally invasive method to treat symptomatic superficial venous reflux and varicose veins. Most of the time this represents an out-patient procedure with essentially no recovery time; typically these procedures are covered by Medicare, and most private insurance companies. Any patient with persistent lower extremity swelling or visible varicose veins may be a candidate for this revolutionary procedure, (including post-partum patients). In addition, any patient with chronic non-healing wounds may benefit from this procedure, (venous stasis ulcers). The first step in the evaluation process is a non-invasive, lower extremity ultrasound which is completely pain-free and also covered by insurance.
Encompassing the philosophy of a Total Vein Care Center, any superficial veins or Spider Telangiectasias are eligible for removal in his office via Sclerotherapy or the new European Minimally Invasive Stab Phlebectomy.
Ambulatory Phlebectomy Ambulatory phlebectomy is a method of surgical removal of surface veins. This is usually completed in our office using local anesthesia. Incisions are tiny (stitches are generally not necessary) and typically leave imperceptible puncture mark scars. Post-operative discomfort is minimal. After the vein has been removed by phlebectomy, a bandage and/or compression stocking is worn for a short period.
Sclerotherapy Sclerotherapy is a cosmetic medical procedure used to treat varicose veins and spider veins. A tiny needle is used to inject a solution directly into the vein. The solution irritates the lining of the vessel, causing it to swell and stick together, and the blood to clot. Overtime, the body will absorb the treated vein. Mild discomfort may occur, and a cramping sensation may be felt for 1 to 2 minutes when larger veins are injected. The number of veins injected in one session is variable, depending on the size and location of the veins, and the patient’s overall medical condition. Anywhere from one to several sclerotherapy sessions may be needed for any vein region. Medically prescribed support hose and/or bandages may need to be worn for several days to several weeks to assist in resolution of the veins. In general, spider veins respond to treatment in 3 to 6 weeks, and larger veins respond in 3 to 4 months.
Foam Sclerotherapy Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy for varicose veins is a variation of established sclerotherapy techniques that use liquid injection. It uses a sclerosant solution that has been transformed into foam by being forcibly mixed with air. Under local anesthetic, a needle is inserted into the main affected superficial vein and is monitored using ultrasound imaging. Foam is then injected and monitored. Once the foam has filled the entire main superficial vein, the top end of the vein is depressed to keep the foam in the superficial veins. The foam causes inflammation of the vein wall, obliteration of the vein's lumen and vein occlusion.
Surgical Ligation and Stripping Surgery is used mostly to treat very large varicose veins. During this surgery, one or more incisions are made over the varicose veins, and the vein is tied off (ligated). If the ligation isolates a faulty valve and the vein and valves below the faulty valve are healthy, the vein may be left in place to continue circulating blood through other veins that still have valves that work properly.If several valves in the vein and the vein itself are heavily damaged, the vein (or the diseased part of the vein) is usually removed (stripped). An incision is made below the varicose vein, a flexible instrument is threaded up the vein to the first incision, and the vein is grasped and removed.
Insurance Coverage Many insurance companies generally cover the cost of the procedures offered by The Vein Center of Grove Hill (after co-pay and deductible requirements are met) if it is considered medically necessary. Cosmetic procedures are generally NOT covered. The doctor or his assistant will discuss with you whether they feel your treatment is medically necessary or cosmetic. You can always contact your insurance carrier to review their policy and coverage limits. The staff of The Vein Center of Grove Hill will assist you with all insurance paperwork.
The Vein Center of Grove Hill has gone to Great Lengths to provide Great Legs via Minimally Invasive Approach.
