(Topeka, Kan., Feb. 26, 2010) – The Cotton-O’Neil Heart Center, part of the Stormont-Vail HealthCare system, along with cardiologists Jack Jones, M.D., and Patrick Sheehy, M.D., FACC, have expanded the vascular disease capabilities offered to also include the minimally invasive treatment and comprehensive management of venous disease. Drs. Jones and Sheehy, who have longtime experience as interventional cardiologists, are leading the expansion of the Cotton-O’Neil Vein Center, and are now accepting new patients. An initial visit will include an examination to determine if a minimally invasive procedure (the VNUS Closure® procedure) is appropriate for your unique condition.
Cardiologists are well trained to care for patients with peripheral vascular disease (PVD), which affects the arteries leading to and from the heart. Recently the condition known as PVD has also grown to include the veins within the legs. The veins in your legs have valves within them that prevent backwards flow of blood. When these valves do not function properly, a condition known as superficial venous reflux can occur. Symptoms may include swelling, pain, fatigue and varicose veins. Varicose veins are known for their distinctive blue color and bulging appearance on the skin. Resembling large, elongated worms, they afflict an estimated 10 to 20 percent of the adult population. In the United States, that translates into more than 20 million people, the majority of whom are women.
About the Closure Procedure
The Closure procedure is an outpatient treatment to treat venous reflux and varicose veins. It is considered less invasive than traditional vein stripping procedures. Using ultrasound, the cardiologist will position the Closure catheter into the diseased vein, through a small opening in the skin. The tiny catheter delivers radiofrequency energy to the vein wall. As the catheter is withdrawn, the vein wall is heated, causing the collagen within the wall to shrink and the vein to close. Once the diseased vein is closed, blood is rerouted to other healthy veins. No stitches are required and patients can typically resume normal activities within a day after the procedure. The Closure procedure also results in reduced post-operative pain for most patients.
For more information about the VNUS Closure® procedure or to schedule an appointment, call the Cotton-O’Neil Vein Center at (785) 290-VEIN.
