Vein Center Physicians Earn Certification by the American Board of Phlebology

The American Board of Phlebology has announced that the physicians of the Vein Center of St. Paul Radiology have earned board certification in the specialty of phlebology by the American Board of Phlebology. Dr. Timothy Goertzen, Dr. Richard Aizpuru and Dr. Michael Hummel were board certified by the ABPh in July 2008.  This is the charter class for ABPh, which includes 248 diplomates nationwide. 

We are very pleased to announce this important accomplishment by Doctors' Goertzen, Aizpuru and Hummel.  Their certification with the American Board of Phlebology reflects the Vein Center of St. Paul Radiology's knowledge and experience in providing premium patient care.

To become an ABPh diplomate, an applicant must complete the requisite training or experience qualifications, meet the continuing medical education requisites, and pass a stringent certification examination.  Certification periods are ten years and maintenance will be dependent on the ability of the diplomate to display competency in four areas of assessment: evidence of professional standing, evidence of commitment to lifelong-learning and periodic self-assessment, evidence of cognitive expertise, evaluation of performance in practice.

Appointment Scheduling Phone: 651.454.7224
(Due to the nature of these procedures, same day appointments are not available)

The physicians at the Vein Center of St. Paul Radiology have been at the forefront of bringing minimally invasive treatments for vein disease to the Twin Cities and are recognized nationally as experts in the use of catheter based treatments for varicose veins. The Vein Center of St. Paul Radiology serves as a training site for physicians interested in observing minimally invasive varicose vein treatments. Following are answers to questions you may have about varicose veins, spider veins or other vein issues.

What is vein disease?
Veins return blood to the heart and lungs using pressure as well as valves that prevent the backward flow of blood. Good valves close tightly while unhealthy valves fail to close completely. If you have unhealthy valves, backflow can result in dilation and blood pooling inside the vein, leading to a medical condition called venous insufficiency. This can lead to the development of spider veins or varicose veins. About 40 million people in the United States have vein disease.

What causes vein disease?
Heredity is the most common predisposing factor for the development of varicose veins or spider veins. Women are three times more likely than men to have varicose veins. It is common for pregnant women to develop varicosities that improve after delivery, however with multiple pregnancies abnormal veins are more likely to remain. Other risk factors include age, obesity and standing occupations. Symptoms are variable and can include leg pain, swelling, fatigue and itching.

How is venous insufficiency diagnosed?
During your initial visit, an ultrasound exam is performed. Your veins are examined to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. A physician will discuss the ultrasound results with you and recommend a treatment plan. Click on the links at the bottom of this page for more information on specific treatments.

How do I know if I am a candidate for a procedure?
You must schedule an initial ultrasound and consultation to determine the cause of your vein problems. Once diagnosed, the physician will discuss treatment options.

How long before I see results or improvement in symptoms? People who are experiencing pain or fullness in their legs usually notice less pain in 7-10 days. It is common for people to see some resolution of physical signs in 4 weeks, but it may take up to 6 months before full results are evident.

Will my insurance cover this procedure?
Many insurance companies are covering the treament of vein disease when it is associated with symptoms such as pain, heaviness, fatigue or swollen ankles. You will need a referral when you come to the Vein Center if your insurance company requires one. If you are a candidate for a procedure, St. Paul Radiology will obtain prior authorization from your insurance company.

Can I have endovenous ablation if I have had vein stripping surgery?
If varicosities occur after vein stripping surgery, an ultrasound consultation can diagnose if the saphenous vein is still present. If so, endovenous ablation can be performed.  

Vein Center Physicians:
Dr. Richard Aizpuru
Dr. George Edmonson
Dr. Timothy Goertzen
Dr. Michael Rosenberg 

Links of Interest:
American College of Phlebology
Society of Interventional Radiology

Click below for specific information on vein treatments: