The Vein Center at Bryan W. Whitfield Memorial Hospital has added a new procedure to treat varicose veins.

The VenaCure EVLT procedure is a fast, safe and minimally invasive way to remove varicose veins, according to Dr. Keith Roberts of Two Rivers Surgical Associates.

Roberts is trained in the procedure and said that approximately 40 percent of all women and 25 percent of all men have varicose veins.

“Because the traditional treatment for this condition, surgical vein stripping and ligation, tends to be a painful procedure with a lengthy recovery time, patients who suffer from varicose veins often decide to just suffer with them,” Roberts said.

With the VenaCure EVLT treatment, a laser fiber is inserted into the vein through a tiny puncture site. Energy emitted from the top of the fiber causes only the treated vein to close, while the body automatically routes the blood to other healthy veins.

The 45-minute procedure uses only local anesthetic and Roberts said there is little to no discomfort. After treatments, patients can walk out of the office and resume normal activities immediately.

“This is a varicose vein treatment that’s perfect for today’s busy lifestyles,” Roberts said. “Patients can look and feel better almost immediately – and with very little inconvenience. It’s very rewarding when advancements in medical technology enable us to provide an alternative that’s far superior to older treatments – and is now replacing them as the treatment of choice.”

Demopolis resident Jan McDonald had this procedure at BWWMH three years ago before the facility added the new system.

“The difference before and after the procedure is remarkable,” she said. “I no longer have the deep ache in my leg … A lot of the bumpiness from the veins are gone and my legs look much better.”

McDonald emphasized the ease and painlessness of the procedure with no downtime.

“I was able to resume my regular regimen, including exercising, within just a few days. There was also no pain with the recovery,” she said. “I have found it very worthwhile and have absolutely no negative issues since it was done.”

BWWMH CEO Mike Marshall said the hospital is excited to offer the new treatment and hopes to add more soon.

“We are very excited to add this procedure to our already impressive surgical services menu,” said Marshall. “As we continue to grow the surgical services offered at BWWMH, we are currently working to add a minimally invasive treatment of peripheral artery disease in the near future.”

For more information about the VenaCure EVLT procedure or to schedule an evaluation, contact Two Rivers Surgical Associates at (334) 287-2847.