Vein Services

Whether you want to correct a cosmetic vein condition or manage a severe venous disorder, the vascular surgeons at UPMC can help you maintain good venous health.

We offer specialized care and the latest treatments, from traditional medical therapy to standard and minimally invasive procedures.

What Are Vein Services?

UPMC vascular surgeons treat problems of the venous system. We offer consultations, diagnosis, and treatment for numerous conditions.

From unsightly veins to severe venous diseases, our experts will assess your condition and recommend a personalized treatment plan.

What conditions do you treat?

We treat a range of venous conditions, including:

• Chronic venous insufficiency.
• Deep vein thrombosis.
• Peripheral venous disease.
• Spider and varicose veins.

Who’s eligible for vein services?

You may be eligible for vein services if you have been diagnosed with a venous condition or have symptoms of a venous condition, including:

• Bulging or enlarged veins.
• Aching, swelling, or heaviness in your affected limb.
• Cramping.
• Pain after sitting or standing in one position for a long time.
• Itching around the affected vein
• Changes in skin color around the affected vein.

What Vein Services Does UPMC Offer?

We are a full-service vein treatment clinic staffed by physicians experienced in treating vein diseases.

Varicose and spider vein care

Varicose veins are enlarged and distended veins that occur in millions of Americans, more frequently in women than in men. They are particularly common in the pelvis and legs.

We specialize in treating all stages of varicose and spider veins, whether they are a cosmetic concern or affecting your quality of life. Our treatments include:

• Simple sclerotherapy for spider veins (injections).
• Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy of varicose veins.
• Thermal and non-thermal ablation.
• Ambulatory phlebectomy.

Minimally invasive venous treatment

Your doctor may recommend minimally invasive treatment using a catheter. This small, thin tube is inserted into a blood vessel through a small incision and guided to the site of your diseased vein. Catheter-based treatment options include:

• Vena cava (IVC) filters.
• Sclerotherapy.
• Endovenous ablation.
• Venous recanalization.

Surgical treatment

In severe cases, your doctor may recommend a surgical procedure to restore normal vein circulation or remove abnormal veins.

• Venous stenting
• Venous surgery

Wound care

• Our vein experts offer treatment for non-healing wounds, including compression and Unna boots.

What Can I Expect From Vein Services?

Our vascular surgeons will create a comprehensive plan to manage your condition and reduce your risk of complications.

Before your visit

To prepare for your visit, you will be asked to provide:

• Name, address, and contact phone number.
• Insurance information.
• Relevant medical records and test results.
• A referral, if required by your health insurance company.

If you get a referral from your primary care doctor or another physician, they can provide your test results and medical records to our team.

During your visit

You'll meet with a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant when you arrive for your first appointment. He or she will ask about your medical history and perform an exam.

We'll give you:

• A complete explanation of your condition and treatments.
• A tailored patient education packet for you to take home.

Your vascular surgery expert will explain your treatment options based on how long you've had symptoms, your condition, and your health history.

Together, we will design and agree on a care plan.

Your care team may also:

• Order tests to learn more about your condition.
• Schedule a procedure in the office or the hospital.
• Provide in-office care.

After your treatment

Our team will schedule follow-up appointments to check how your treatment is working. You should contact our office if:

• You have questions about your treatment plan or medications.
• Your symptoms get worse or do not improve as expected.
• You have any other concerns about your condition.

By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2024-10-01.