If you’ve been struggling with unsightly and potentially painful varicose veins, the variety of clinics and treatment centers claiming that they can easily remedy your problem may seem a bit overwhelming. In general, shopping for the right doctor for any issue may take some time. However, it’s important to know what to look for when selecting the right vein clinic or specialist because at the end of the day, not all offices are created equal.
Chances are good that you’ve probably come across a host of billboards or radio commercials advertising the latest vein clinic, but it it’s important to realize that most of the offices dealing with varicose and spider veins are not staffed by board certified vascular surgeons. While they employ physicians, most are specialists in other areas, which can be akin to an electrician working on your plumbing.
Therefore, when considering the right vein or vascular clinic, it’s important to look for a physician who is actually a board certified vascular surgeon for the following reasons:
EXPERIENCE: Board certified vascular surgeons have obtained extensive training in the recognition and treatment of all vein, artery, and vascular-related conditions. Their skill goes beyond simply treating everyday cases of varicose veins, allowing them to deal with complex scenarios and instances involving serious complications.
CREDENTIALS: Board certified vascular surgeons are fully trained surgeons who have completed fellowships in vascular surgery, which means that they have spent years learning about the diagnosis, prevention, management, and treatment of all types of vascular disorders. They are also required to maintain their certifications through continuing education courses, allowing them to stay abreast of the latest methods and techniques.
TREATMENT OPTIONS: Board certified vascular surgeons are able to utilize a wide variety of treatment options, especially newer methods that cannot be found at standard vein clinics. In addition, depending upon the severity of your condition, a vascular surgeon will be able to make additional recommendations regarding your risk factors for other more serious conditions such as artery blockages, aneurysms, or stroke. When it comes to vascular disease, vascular surgeons can do it all. They are the only physicians who are trained and equipped to treat vascular disease with medication, with surgical procedures, and with minimally-invasive endovascular techniques.
At the end of the day, when selecting the right doctor, make a point to ask questions regarding their certifications and past experience. A physician who has actually obtained a certification in vascular surgery will not only know what they are doing, but will have the training, education, and experience to support a successful outcome.
If you’d like to learn more about what our office can do for you, please feel free to call us at 470-355-3053 or visit our website at www.ATLVascular.com.
Dr. Joseph J. Ricotta II MD, MS, FACS
Vascular Institute of Atlanta
www.AtlVascular.com
470-355-3053
