Category: Blog

The Vascular Care Group Expands Advanced Vascular Surgery Practice in Hyannis

HYANNIS, MA. – The Vascular Care Group (TVCG) a state-of-the art medical practice committed to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of vascular disease, welcomes Roger C. Rosen, MD, FACS, FSVS to its Hyannis, MA location. Dr. Rosen is a board-certified vascular surgeon with extensive expertise in both open and endovascular procedures. He specializes in treating abdominal aortic aneurysms, carotid artery disease, and lower extremity vascular conditions, including arterial and venous diseases as well as varicose veins.

Dr. Rosen earned his Bachelor of Science with high distinction from the University of Michigan and his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. He completed his general surgery residency at Tufts New England Medical Center, where he served as Chief Resident, followed by a vascular surgery fellowship at the Tufts VA program.

Prior to joining The Vascular Care Group, Dr. Rosen practiced vascular surgery at the Hawthorn Vascular Center, part of Hawthorn Medical Associates in New Bedford, MA. He was also a founding partner at New Bedford Vascular Surgical Associates Inc. Additionally, Dr. Rosen held several leadership roles at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford, including Chief of Surgery, Chief of Vascular Surgery, President of the Medical Staff, and President of the South Coast Hospital Medical Executive Committee.

Dr. Rosen maintains active affiliations with the Society for Vascular Surgery, the American College of Surgeons, the Society of Vascular Technology, the Massachusetts Medical Society, and the New England Society for Vascular Surgery. He has served as Vice President and Membership Committee Chairman for the New England Society for Vascular Surgery, is a Founding Member and Former Secretary/Treasurer of the South Florida Society for Vascular Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Currently, he is the Director of the South Shore Vascular Society.

The Vascular Care Group Strengthens Its Presence in Greater Portland with Three Expert Physicians

PORTLAND, ME. – The Vascular Care Group (TVCG) is proud to announce the addition of three distinguished vascular surgeons, Dr. Nathan J. Aranson, Dr. Elizabeth Blazick, and Dr. Christopher T. Healey, to its state-of-the-art vascular center in Portland, ME.

Dr. Nathan J. Aranson, MD, RPVI, FACS, is a third-generation physician from Maine, bringing a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to advancing vascular care in the region.

Dr. Aranson is a dual board-certified general and vascular surgeon. He is an Assistant Professor of Surgery at Tufts University School of Medicine and a nationally recognized educator and lecturer with numerous publications.

Dr. Aranson graduated Cum Laude from Tufts University in 2001 with a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry, followed by his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Massachusetts Medical School in 2006. His extensive training includes a general surgery residency at LAC/USC Medical Center in Los Angeles, coupled with two years of vascular surgical research at Harvard Medical School as part of an NIH-funded program. He completed his fellowship in Vascular and Endovascular Surgery at Massachusetts General Hospital, where he earned numerous awards for his teaching and educational contributions.

Before joining The Vascular Care Group, Dr. Aranson was a Staff Surgeon in Vascular Surgery at Virginia Mason Medical Center and, most recently, Maine Medical Center for more than five years. In the State of Maine, he performed the first thoracic branch endograft insertion as well as the first minimally invasive arteriovenous fistula creation for dialysis access.

Dr. Elizabeth Blazick, MD, RPVI, FACS, brings extensive clinical expertise in all areas of vascular surgery, along with a robust background in research and medical education.

Dr. Blazick earned her Bachelor of Science in Sports Biology and Chemistry from Springfield College, followed by a graduate Certificate in Physician Assistant Studies from Springfield College/Baystate Health Systems. She completed her Doctor of Medicine  degree at the University of South Florida, where she received numerous awards, including induction into the Alpha Omega Alpha academic honor society and the Arnold P. Gold Humanism Honor Society. She completed her General Surgery Residency and Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School.

Previously, Dr. Blazick was an attending vascular surgeon at Maine Medical Center and served as the Program Director for the Integrated Vascular Surgery Residency. She is also an Assistant Professor of Surgery at Tufts University School of Medicine. Dr. Blazick is an active member of several professional societies, including the Society for Vascular Surgery and the American College of Surgeons, where she is a Fellow. She has been honored with the Society for Vascular Surgery’s Leadership Development Award.

Dr. Christopher T. Healey, MD, RPVI, FACS, offers extensive clinical expertise in vascular surgery, complemented by significant contributions to research and medical education.

Dr. Healey graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry. He earned his MD from the Warren Alpert School of Medicine at Brown University and completed his General Surgery Residency at the University of Vermont, where he received numerous awards, including the Resident Excellence in Teaching Award and the Norman Snow Award for excellence in Cardiothoracic Surgery. He completed his Vascular Surgery Fellowship at Tufts Medical Center.

Since beginning his career in Portland, ME, in 2007, Dr. Healey has served as an Assistant Professor of Surgery at Tufts University School of Medicine and has been the principal investigator on multiple clinical trials. His research includes studies on stem cell treatments for critical limb ischemia and the development of a novel endovascular aneurysm sealing device. He has also held key educational roles, including Assistant Program Director for the General Surgery Residency at Maine Medical Center and Program Director for the Vascular Surgery Integrated Residency. Dr. Healey is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and a member of the Society of Vascular Surgery, the New England Society of Vascular Surgery, the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society, and the Wound Healing Society.

When it comes to vein health, two common concerns often arise: varicose veins and spider veins. While both conditions involve visible veins, they differ in appearance, causes, and treatment options. Understanding these differences can help you decide on the best course of action for maintaining healthy veins.

What Are Varicose Veins?

Appearance and Symptoms

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that often appear blue or dark purple. They are most commonly found on the legs and can be seen bulging above the skin’s surface. Symptoms of varicose veins can include:

• Aching or heavy feeling in the legs
• Burning, throbbing, or muscle cramping
• Swelling in the lower legs
• Itching around the veins
• Skin discoloration around the affected area

Causes

Varicose veins occur when the valves in the veins that regulate blood flow become weak or damaged. This causes blood to pool in the veins, making them swell. Factors that can increase the risk of developing varicose veins include:

• Age
• Gender (women are more likely to develop varicose veins)
• Genetics
• Obesity
• Prolonged standing or sitting
• Pregnancy

What Are Spider Veins?

Appearance and Symptoms

Spider veins are smaller, red, purple, or blue vessels that also twist and turn. They are closer to the skin’s surface and often resemble a spider web or tree branches. Spider veins can appear on the legs and face. While they are typically not painful, some people may experience discomfort or itching.

Causes

Similar to varicose veins, spider veins are caused by increased blood pressure. Contributing factors include:

• Genetics
• Hormonal changes
• Sun exposure
• Injuries
• Prolonged standing or sitting

Treatment Options for Varicose Veins and Spider Veins

Lifestyle Changes

Certain lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further progression for both varicose and spider veins. These include:

• Exercise: Regular physical activity improves circulation and can help reduce the risk of developing vein issues.
• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the veins.
• Elevating the Legs: Elevating your legs when resting can help reduce swelling and improve blood flow.
• Compression Stockings: Wearing compression stockings can help support the veins and improve circulation.

Medical Treatments

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a common treatment for both varicose and spider veins. This procedure involves injecting a solution directly into the vein, causing it to scar and collapse. The treated vein is eventually absorbed by the body and fades from view. Sclerotherapy is typically performed in a doctor’s office and does not require anesthesia.

Endovenous Ablation (Radiofrequency)

Radiofrequency (RF) Ablation is a revolutionizing treatment of chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins. It is an advanced, minimally invasive office procedure that can rapidly treat varicose veins with minimal discomfort. Under local anesthesia, a catheter is inserted into the target vein. As the catheter is slowly withdrawn, the malfunctioning vein is heated and sealed. Return to daily activity is immediate.

Varithena and Venaseal

Varithena uses a foam to close the diseased vein; this foam can spread into branch veins and under skin ulcerations. Venaseal utilizes a surgical adhesive to close the vein without any anesthesia.

Vein Surgery

Ambulatory Phlebectomy is a method of removal for larger, thicker, surface varicose veins (the spongy coiled veins just beneath the skin). Unlike traditional surgical techniques, micro-incisions are made to gently remove the undesired veins. The incisions are so small that stitches are not necessary and heal with virtually no scarring. Surgery is usually reserved for large varicose veins that have not responded to other treatments and can often still be performed in the office setting.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you are experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or skin changes due to varicose or spider veins, it’s important to consult a vascular specialist. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve your quality of life.

Why Choose The Vascular Care Group?

At The Vascular Care Group, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care for all your vascular health needs. Our team of experienced specialists utilizes the latest technologies and treatments to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. With convenient locations across New England, we offer personalized care plans tailored to your specific condition and lifestyle.

Don’t wait to seek treatment if you’re struggling with varicose or spider veins. Contact The Vascular Care Group today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards healthier, more comfortable legs.

It’s another busy day at the (home?) office, and you find yourself glued to your desk, engrossed in your work. Hours pass, and before you know it, you’ve been sitting for what feels like an eternity. Sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone. 

In today’s fast-paced world, many of us spend the majority of our day seated, whether it’s at work, during our commute, or while relaxing at home. But have you ever considered the toll that prolonged sitting can take on your vein health and circulation? In this article, the experts at The Vascular Care Group guide you through the world of standing desks and explore how they can revolutionize the way you work while keeping your veins happy and healthy.

The Impact of Sedentary Jobs on Vein Health

Sedentary jobs, where individuals spend long hours sitting at a desk, can lead to poor circulation and an increased risk of vein-related issues such as varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Sitting for extended periods makes blood flow sluggish, leading to swelling, discomfort, and potential health complications.

Understanding the Benefits of Standing Desks

Standing desks offer a simple yet effective solution to combat the adverse effects of prolonged sitting. These desks promote better circulation and reduce the strain on the veins in the legs by allowing employees to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day.

Tips for Using Standing Desks Effectively

1. Start Slowly: If you’re new to standing desks, ease into it by gradually increasing your standing time each day.
2. Invest in Proper Footwear: Supportive shoes can help alleviate discomfort associated with standing for extended periods.
3. Take Breaks: Remember to take regular breaks to stretch your legs and move around, whether sitting or standing.
4. Adjust Desk Height: Ensure your standing desk is adjusted to the correct height to maintain proper posture and alignment.

Incorporating Movement into Your Workday

In addition to using a standing desk, incorporating movement into your workday is essential for maintaining circulation and overall vein health. Simple activities like taking short walks, doing leg exercises at your desk, or using a balance board can help keep your blood flowing and reduce the risk of vein-related issues.

Elevate Your Vein Health with Expert Vascular Care in New England

The Vascular Care Group is a leading provider of vascular care services dedicated to improving the health and well-being of our patients. With teams of experienced vascular specialists and state-of-the-art facilities across New England, we offer personalized care and innovative treatments for various vascular conditions. 

If you’re experiencing any vein-related concerns or would like to learn more about our services, contact us today to schedule a consultation.

As the sun climbs higher in the sky and the days stretch out before us, nature starts to blossom, offering a bounty of superfoods. These aren’t just delightful to the palate but are also packed with nutrients essential for vascular health.

At The Vascular Care Group, we’re committed to not just treating vascular issues but also educating our communities on preventive care through healthier lifestyle choices. This blog dives into the seasonal superfoods that can contribute to the health of your veins and arteries.

The Power of Berries

June marks the season for strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries in New England. These berries are high in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, thus protecting the vascular system. Incorporating a handful of these into your daily diet can make a significant difference. Swap sugary treats for a bowl of mixed berries for dessert to reap the benefits.

Leafy Greens: The Vein Protectors

Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard thrive during this season. They offer a rich source of vitamin K, which is crucial in preventing blood clots. A fresh salad with these leafy greens, topped with nuts and a vinaigrette, is a treat to your taste buds and an excellent way to promote vein and artery health.

Nuts and Seeds: The Crunchy Allies

Almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds are perfect for snacking in between meals. They are filled with omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Sprinkle them over your salads or blend them into your morning smoothie for an extra health kick.

The Magic of Avocados

Avocados are another superfood that deserves mention. Rich in potassium, they help lower blood pressure levels, which is crucial for maintaining healthy veins and arteries. Incorporate avocados into your sandwiches, salads, or enjoy them as guacamole for a heart-healthy fat boost.

The Sweetness of Sweet Potatoes

Not only are sweet potatoes readily available in June, but they are also filled with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins that support heart health. They can be baked, roasted, or mashed as a healthier alternative to regular potatoes.

Hydration with a Twist

Staying hydrated is key to healthy veins and arteries. Cucumbers and watermelons, which have a high water content, offer a refreshing way to stay hydrated during warmer days. Add cucumber slices to your water, or enjoy a piece of watermelon for a hydrating treat.

Bringing It All Together

Adapting a diet rich in these superfoods can significantly support your vascular health. However, it’s important to remember that diet is just one aspect of a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, avoiding smoking, and managing stress levels are equally important.

When to Seek Professional Help

Despite our best efforts, genetics and other uncontrollable factors can sometimes lead to vascular issues. If you experience symptoms such as persistent leg pain, swelling, or varicose veins, it might be time to consult a professional.

In New England, The Vascular Care Group provides comprehensive vascular care tailored to each patient’s needs. Our team of experts utilizes the latest technologies and treatments to ensure the best outcomes. 

Ready to Take a Step Towards Better Vascular Health?

Visit our website to explore how we can assist you in maintaining or improving your vascular health. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen; proactive care is critical. 

Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our locations across New England. Your health is our priority, and at The Vascular Care Group, you’re in good hands.

If you’re like many professionals, juggling a hectic schedule from dawn till dusk, health often takes a backseat to deadlines and meetings. Grabbing a coffee to go, skipping meals, and sitting through marathon Zoom calls have become the norm. But amidst this chaos, one aspect of your health silently demands attention — your vascular health. Unlike a missed email or a postponed meeting, neglecting it can lead to serious consequences.

This guide isn’t about adding another task to your overwhelming to-do list; it’s about seamlessly integrating simple, life-changing habits into your routine to ensure your blood vessels get the care they deserve.

Understanding Vascular Health

Before diving into strategies for maintaining vascular health, it’s crucial to understand what vascular health entails. The vascular system comprises arteries, veins, and capillaries that carry blood throughout the body, delivering essential oxygen and nutrients to organs and tissues. When the vascular system functions optimally, blood flow remains unimpeded, supporting overall health and vitality.

The Impact of Busy Lifestyles on Vascular Health

Busy professionals often face multiple challenges that can negatively impact vascular health. Prolonged periods of sitting, high stress levels, poor dietary choices, and lack of exercise are common factors in modern work environments. These aspects can contribute to conditions such as high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes, all of which increase the risk of vascular diseases like atherosclerosis and peripheral artery disease.

Practical Strategies for Vascular Health

1. Move More, Sit Less: Incorporate regular movement breaks into your workday. Take short walks, stretch at your desk, or use a standing desk to reduce prolonged sitting.
2. Prioritize Exercise: Schedule regular exercise sessions, even if they’re short. Aim for a mix of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises to promote overall vascular health.
3. Eat a Balanced Diet: Opt for nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit intake of processed foods, sugary snacks, and high-sodium meals, which can contribute to vascular issues.
4. Manage Stress: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or mindfulness exercises to alleviate stress and promote relaxation.
5. Get Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular appointments with a vascular care provider for preventive screenings and assessments. Early detection of vascular issues can lead to better outcomes and treatment options.

Seeking Professional Guidance for Vascular Care

If you’re experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, leg cramps, or numbness in your extremities, seeking prompt medical attention from a vascular care provider is essential. At The Vascular Care Group, our team of experienced specialists offers comprehensive vascular care services, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of various vascular conditions.

Explore our services, including vascular screenings, minimally invasive procedures, and surgical interventions, to ensure your vascular health remains a top priority. Don’t let a busy schedule compromise your well-being—take proactive steps to protect your vascular health today.

Contact The Vascular Care Group Today!

At The Vascular Care Group, we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive vascular care that fits your busy schedule. With locations across New England, our team of experienced vascular specialists is here to support you with state-of-the-art treatments and compassionate care. Whether you’re looking for preventive care or need treatment for a vascular condition, we’re here to help.

Ready to prioritize your vascular health? Schedule a consultation today and discover how we can assist you in leading a healthier, more vibrant life.

Have you ever ended a long day with legs that feel like they’ve run a marathon, even if you’ve barely left your desk? It’s a common plight signaling poor circulation and potential vein health issues, but there’s a surprisingly simple solution: compression socks. These aren’t just for athletes or seniors; they’re a secret weapon for anyone looking to boost their vein health and enjoy comfort, whether at work, during travel, or in daily activities.

Join us as we unravel the science behind compression socks and how they can be your legs’ new best friend.

The Science Behind Compression Socks

Compression socks are designed to promote blood flow by applying gentle pressure to your legs and ankles, helping the blood vessels work better. Blood flows more freely back to your heart, reducing swelling, preventing blood clots, and alleviating symptoms associated with varicose veins and other venous disorders. They’re not just for travelers or hospital patients; anyone can benefit from the enhanced circulation they provide.

Benefits for Everyday Health and Activity

1. Improved Circulation: By promoting blood flow, compression socks can help reduce the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis and other circulation-related issues.
2. Reduced Swelling and Pain: Regular compression socks wearers report significantly less swelling and pain in their legs, especially towards the end of the day or after long periods of standing or sitting.
3. Enhanced Athletic Performance: Athletes find that compression socks support muscle recovery after exercise by minimizing muscle soreness and fatigue.
4. Support for Varicose Veins: Wearing compression socks can alleviate discomfort from varicose veins and may help prevent new ones from developing.
5. Travel Companion: During long flights or car rides, compression socks can be a game-changer in preventing deep vein thrombosis and leg swelling.

Choosing the Right Compression Socks

Not all compression socks are created equal. It’s essential to choose the right level of compression for your needs, generally measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). A lower compression level might be sufficient for everyday wear, while those with specific vein health concerns may require a higher level. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a vascular care specialist can provide guidance on the best choice for you.

Take the Next Step Towards Healthier Veins With The Vascular Care Group

Our team at The Vascular Care Group is dedicated to providing our patients with the highest level of care. With state-of-the-art facilities across New England and a team of experienced specialists, we offer comprehensive vascular care services tailored to each patient’s needs. 

If you’re experiencing discomfort or want to learn more about improving your vein health, we are here to help. Visit our website to find a location near you. Our team is committed to providing personalized care and the latest treatments to keep your veins healthy for years to come.

The journey to maintaining optimal vascular health is a multifaceted endeavor that extends far beyond the confines of traditional medicine. It encompasses the very lifestyle choices we make daily, particularly in the realms of diet and exercise. As we navigate through the complexities of modern living, understanding the profound impact of these elements on our vascular system becomes paramount. 

This blog aims to shed light on how diet and exercise play crucial roles in promoting vascular health and why incorporating them into your routine can lead to a healthier, more vibrant life.

Diet’s Impact on Vascular Health

A balanced diet acts as the cornerstone of good vascular health. Nutrient-dense foods not only nourish our bodies but also protect our blood vessels from damage. Here are key dietary principles to support vascular health:

• Whole Foods Over Processed: Opt for fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. These foods are rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, protecting the vascular walls.
• Limit Saturated Fats and Sodium: Excessive intake of saturated fats and sodium can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries and high blood pressure, respectively. Moderation is key.
• Increase Fiber Intake: Dietary fiber found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps reduce cholesterol levels, thus lowering the risk of vascular disease.
• Stay Hydrated: Adequate water intake is essential for maintaining the elasticity of blood vessels and ensuring proper circulation.

The Role of Exercise in Vascular Health

Regular physical activity is equally essential in maintaining vascular health. Exercise helps by:

• Improving Blood Flow: Regular exercise enhances circulation, ensuring that nutrients and oxygen are efficiently distributed throughout the body.
• Reducing Blood Pressure: Physical activity can help lower blood pressure by keeping the blood vessels flexible and strong.
• Strengthening the Heart Muscle: Like any muscle, the heart becomes stronger with exercise, improving its ability to pump blood effectively.
• Weight Management: Exercise aids in weight control, which is vital since obesity is a significant risk factor for vascular diseases.

Incorporating at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week, along with muscle-strengthening exercises on two or more days a week, can significantly benefit your vascular health.

Balancing Act: Combining Diet and Exercise

The synergy between diet and exercise creates a powerful duo for vascular health. While a healthy diet ensures the right nutrients are available for the body’s needs, regular exercise utilizes these nutrients to strengthen and maintain the vascular system’s integrity. Together, they reduce the risk of developing vascular diseases, enhance energy levels, and improve overall well-being.

Embrace Your Health with The Vascular Care Group

At The Vascular Care Group, we understand that every individual’s journey to optimal vascular health is unique. Our world-class, comprehensive vascular care services are tailored to meet your specific needs, guiding you through every step of your journey towards a healthier life. Whether you’re seeking preventive advice, diagnostic services, cutting-edge treatments, or managing an existing vascular disease diagnosis, our team of experts is here to support you.

Reach out to The Vascular Care Group and discover how we can help you achieve optimal vascular health in New England.

Decorated vascular surgeon Dr. James brings over two decades of experience to outpatient care center

PLYMOUTH, Mass.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The Vascular Care Group (TVCG), announced today the opening of a new, state-of-the-art vascular center, located in Plymouth, Mass. Scott D. James, DO, RPVI will serve as the center’s lead vascular surgeon, bringing over two decades of experience treating a wide array of vascular conditions in and around the Plymouth community. The Plymouth vascular care center will be TVCG’s tenth location in Massachusetts, reinforcing the team’s commitment to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of vascular disease in Massachusetts communities.

Vascular care centers, like this new Plymouth facility, put the patient at the center of the care model,” said Dr. James. “For patients seeking routine vascular care or are in need of minimally invasive, outpatient procedures, our center is focused on improving access to vascular care for the community and putting patients at the center of high-quality, convenient care with dedicated staff who are experts in venous and vascular disease.” With a broad range of patients, Dr. James has experience treating a variety of vascular conditions from dialysis to cosmetic vein care to carotid artery disease.

Prior to joining The Vascular Care Group, Dr. James spent 18 years practicing at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital – Plymouth, formerly Jordan Hospital, where he serves as the hospital’s Wound Center Medical Director. The Vascular Care Group collaborates with community hospitals and Dr. James and his team will continue to offer around-the-clock vascular care to BID Hospital – Plymouth and continue to perform in-patient, open surgical procedures at the hospital, if that is the best course of treatment for the patient.

“Over the past couple of years, we have seen patients neglecting important routine vascular care,” said Dr. James. “My hope is that patients will recognize the convenience and quality of our center and seek out the necessary and, at times, lifesaving care they need. I am eager to continue to provide the Plymouth community with access to quality vascular care at this brand-new facility, while also continuing my long-standing support and commitment to Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital – Plymouth.”

TVCG is committed to improving the patient experience and access to vascular care by making the healthcare process more convenient in a high-quality setting centered around patient care. Utilizing the most cutting-edge and innovative techniques, TVCG provides minimally invasive treatments while eliminating the need to travel far for quality vascular care. Dr. James will be joined in Plymouth by nurse practitioner, Regina Chandler.

About The Vascular Care Group
The Vascular Care Group (TVCG) is a growing group practice committed to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of vascular disease centering its treatment model around optimizing the patient experience, providing advanced vascular interventions outside the traditional hospital setting, and reducing costs for patients and payers. TVCG fundamentally improves access to much needed vascular care, focusing on community settings, including around-the-clock service and support to more than twelve community hospitals in Massachusetts. The practice brings together decades of expertise among a team of vascular specialists offering unparalleled care in Massachusetts at six full-service vascular care centers with four satellite offices, from Worcester to Cape Cod. Their comprehensive services cover a broad range of conditions from non-invasive vascular testing to complex vascular surgeries, including a full spectrum of open and endovascular procedures performed in-office and at affiliated hospitals throughout the state. Each care center has united some of the area’s leading vascular specialists with a focus on superior patient care. More information about the practice can be found at https://vascularcaregrp.com/.

READ MORE: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220718005723/en/Dr.-Scott-D.-James-Becomes-Leading-Physician-of-The-Vascular-Care-Group-Plymouth

If you have squiggly, bulging veins in your legs that look like a version of a road map, you are among the 35 percent of people living in the United States who have varicose veins, according to the Society for Vascular Surgery.

“Varicose veins develop in the superficial veins just under the skin,” said Daniel R. Gorin, MD, RVT, FACS, a vascular surgeon with the Vascular Care Group in Hyannis. “They can become uncomfortable, achy, burning, itchy and sometimes as the skin thins over them, they can rupture and bleed. You can develop swelling in your legs, changes in the skin and tissues resulting in chronic venous insufficiency leading to ulcers.”

Unlike the deep veins in the legs that do all the work of circulation in your legs, these are minor veins that aren’t that important to circulation, explained Dr. Gorin. It is a problem you are likely born with and, overwhelmingly, people who develop varicose veins have someone in their family who had them.

“For those patients who say they don’t, they never saw their grandmother in shorts,” he said.

The changes that cause veins to stretch and bulge are attributed to the one-way valves in your veins that weaken over time and begin to leak, he added. This causes pressure inside the vein when the valve doesn’t close completely, allowing blood to leak back down the veins instead of flowing up towards the heart.

New Minimally Invasive Treatments

In the past, faulty veins were removed using vein stripping surgery that involved pulling the veins out of the leg, which required the use of general or spinal anesthesia and often resulted in bruising and scarring. But now there are better more effective and less invasive options for patients, according to Dr. Gorin. Newer techniques now seal off the veins using endovenous ablation, he said. These are minimally invasive procedures that use either radiofrequency energy or laser energy to burn the inside of the veins and close them off. Blood flow then reroutes through other veins.

“The procedure is done in the office, and it takes about 10 minutes,” he said. “Basically, we numb your skin with Novocaine, thread a little needle into the vein, followed by a guidewire and then a special catheter up the vein. As the catheter is withdrawn, we can either use radiofrequency energy or laser light energy to burn the inside of the vein, which makes it collapse. You get a band aid, put on elastic stockings, and you walk out. No pain, no scars. You can return to your usual activities right away.”

“It has been a wonderful advance instead of doing the stripping surgeries. It deflates their varicose veins, and it makes patients feel a lot better,” said Dr. Gorin.

Marilyn Sink, a retired schoolteacher, recently had a radiofrequency ablation done with Dr. Gorin. She had noticed a bulging varicose vein just below her knee and became concerned that it could bleed if it got accidentally hit or injured, especially with her active lifestyle working in the garden and exercising.

“My skin is very thin in that particular area, which gets bumped a lot and is kind of exposed,” she said.

After a three-month trial of wearing a compression stocking as an initial treatment, Dr. Gorin and Sink decided to treat the vein.

“The procedure went fine and the way he said everything would,” said Sink. “It went quite fast, and I was out in an hour.”

The next day she went to her yoga class and was back to doing many of her normal activities.