The Vein Center of Cincinnati, LLC

Vein disorders are not always visible; therefore, modern Vein Disease Diagnosis requires diagnostic techniques and tools in determining the cause and severity of the problem. Depending on the results of your screening examination, we may recommend additional tests such as diagnostic ultrasound to identify where and how badly your veins are damaged. The ultrasound examination is designed to evaluate the blood flow through your veins in your legs, localizing the problem areas. Consultation Visit. We have many years of experience and are able to identify the cause of vein incompetence in all of our patients. Our providers perform the physical examinations and then correlate symptoms, physical examination findings, and the ultrasound analysis to make the proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations. During your initial consultation, it is very important to us that you have time to review the ultrasound scan with your provider. We will also review your history, symptoms, and initial exam to determine the next steps for evaluation. Varicose Vein Treatments Varicose veins are abnormally enlarged veins at the surface of your skin which can appear to be bulged, twisted, or ropey. Diagnosis and treatment of varicose veins is frequently covered by insurance.

Endovenous Ablation Thermal Ablation There are two types of thermal (heat) ablation procedures that close down abnormal veins: Endovenous Laser Ablation and Radiofrequency Ablation. Both of these treatments are FDA approved and performed in less than 30 minutes with success rates greater than 90% and very low recurrence rates. Patients can immediately return to normal activity that same day, with little or no pain. Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) EVLA consists of inserting an FDA approved laser fiber into the affected vein. Laser energy heat is then delivered to the vein and seals it shut (ablation). Once the bad vein is closed, blood is naturally rerouted to healthy veins which improves venous circulation. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) RFA consists of inserting an FDA approved catheter (VNUS ClosureFAST ®) into the affected vein. Radiofrequency energy (heat) is then delivered to the vein and seals it shut like EVLA. Once the bad vein is closed, blood is naturally rerouted to healthy veins which improves venous circulation. VenaSeal Closure System The VenaSeal™ system is a form of ablation that improves blood flow by closing diseased veins with a medical adhesive (glue). A special catheter system delivers a small amount of a specially formulated adhesive to the diseased vein. The adhesive seals the vein and blood is rerouted through nearby healthy veins. Currently this procedure is covered by some insurance providers. Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy Endovenous chemical ablation (also referred to as Ultrasound Guided Sclerotherapy) refers to the injection of a special medicine (sclerosant) into abnormal veins in order to seal them shut. As with other ablation procedures, the treatment is performed under ultrasound guidance to ensure safety and blood flow is naturally redirected to healthy veins. Varithena Treatment Varithena® (polidocanol injectable foam) is an FDA approved prescription medicine injected into abnormal veins under ultrasound guidance to seal them shut. Some patients receiving Varithena® only need a single treatment. Additional treatment may be needed, depending on the number and size of veins to be treated.

Surface Sclerotherapy Varicose Vein Disease and specifically Spider Veins are most commonly treated by Sclerotherapy. The treatment involves injecting a ‘sclerosant’ solution directly into the vein. The goal of treatment is irreversible venous closure (fibrotic occlusion) followed by absorption of the vein. Venous blood is then redirected from the abnormal varicose vessel to healthy veins. As a result, leg discomfort and cosmetic appearance improves. Both ‘liquid’ and ‘foam’ formulations are used. Liquid injection is used for smaller, surface veins. Foam injection has an increased potency and thus is used to treat larger veins. In addition, foam can be observed under ultrasound, in real time, for better precision. There are some reasons why you might not be a suitable candidate for this treatment, like if you are pregnant, have an allergy to sclerosant, have active clotting or bleeding episodes and immobility. At your consultation, our venous expert will customize a treatment plan that is right for you. The number of treatments needed differs from patient to patient, depending on how many veins there are, and the patient’s expectations. For best results, three or four sessions are needed for most patients. Treatment sessions are scheduled at four-week intervals until the desired results are achieved.

A trial of conservative therapy, ranging from 6 to 12 weeks, is often required by insurance companies before we can treat your varicose veins. Conservative measures include graduated compression stockings, exercise, periodic leg elevation, and Unna boots. Medical grade compression stockings are often prescribed to control the painful symptoms of varicose veins and swelling in the legs. They are also required to aid in the healing process following vein treatment procedures. A consultation with Dr. Hearn is necessary to determine the strength of the stocking needed to control your symptoms. We keep an ample supply in stock for our patients undergoing treatment, eliminating the need for an additional stop at the pharmacy.