Banner Good Samaritan initiates new Vein Clinic for treatment of painful or unsightly veins in legs

PHOENIX (Nov. 17, 2008) – People choose to treat veins in their legs for a variety of reasons – from pain and swelling to varicosities and skin ulcers, to primarily cosmetic reasons. All of these needs can be managed by the new Vein Clinic at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center.

“Depending on the individual case, veins may be treated through one of two means,” says interventional radiologist Dr. Charles Raker. “First, sclerotherapy is a traditional but effective method that involves injections of Sotradecol solution, using very fine needles, to close off problematic veins.

“In other cases, interventional radiologists may choose to use a newer radiofrequency ablation therapy that is particularly effective for rope-like, painful varicose veins.”

At times, ultrasound may be recommended for help in diagnosis of reflux in the veins, or blood pooling in the extremities instead of returning to the heart.

In all cases, pressure stockings are recommended for a few weeks following treatment for the best possible result. For this reason, winter is a great time to seek treatment.

When medical issues are identified, insurance typically covers the cost of this procedure. For cosmetic procedures, the clinic has developed a very competitive rate that can be paid via cash or credit card. Treatment time is short (about one hour), pain is minimal and most can return to work the same day or the next day.

Those who would like to learn more about how the Vein Clinic could assist with their needs are invited to attend a free, educational lecture presented by Dr. Raker in Banner Good Samaritan’s Sandstone Conference Room–South on Thursday, Dec. 4 from noon to 1 p.m. Participants are invited to bring their lunch. You may also call the department directly to make an appointment for a complimentary consultation at (602) 239-4689.

Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center has been providing medical care to Arizona and the Southwest since 1911. Banner Good Samaritan is owned and operated by Phoenix-based Banner Health, a nonprofit organization, and is a flagship hospital within the system. The hospital was recently named for a ninth year to U.S.News & World Report’s “America’s Best Hospitals” list for Gastroenterology, Gynecology, Heart and Heart Surgery, and Kidney Disease. Banner Good Samaritan has been recognized as a Magnet facility by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the highest honor a hospital can earn for its nursing care and practices. For more information about Banner Good Samaritan, please visit www.bannerhealth.com, keyword: Good Sam.

# # #

Contact:
Banner Good Samaritan Public Relations
(602) 239-4411