Vein Care

At the Ochsner Vein Caer Center we treat a wide array of conditions of the veins, which include:

• Spider veins
• Varicose veins
• Legs swelling
• Venous sufficiency/reflux
• Lymphedema: A condition where fluid builds up in the tissues, often in the arms or legs, causing swelling.
• May-Thurner Syndrome (MTS): Is when the right iliac artery presses on the left iliac vein. This can slow blood flow and raise the risk of a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis) in the left leg.  

A physical exam diagnoses varicose veins and should be part of your annual physical. Some common risk factors for developing varicose veins include:

• Family history of vein disease
• Female gender
• Age
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Tumors
• Prolonged standing 

The Ochsner Vein Clinic performs surgical procedures efficiently, allowing patients to leave without any downtime. Below is a list of our treatment options:

• Spider vein sclerotherapy: A treatment where a special solution is injected into spider veins to make them fade
• Foam injections: A foam solution is injected into veins to close them and improve blood flow
• Endovenous laser ablation treatment: A laser is used inside the vein to seal it shut and reduce varicose veins
• Compression therapy: Special stockings or wraps are used to improve blood flow and reduce swelling
• Lymphedema specialized decongestive therapy and pumps: A treatment to reduce swelling caused by fluid buildup, using massage and compression devices
• Phlebectomy for varicose veins: A minor surgery to remove large varicose veins through small cuts in the skin
• Iliac vein stenting: A small tube (stent) is placed in a blocked vein to keep it open and improve blood flow
• Venoplasty: A procedure to widen narrowed veins using a small balloon

The Ochsner Vein Clinic operates at Ochsner Baptist - A Campus of Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. To schedule an appointment, call 504-897-4446 or visit MyOchsner. 

Veins are flexible, hollow tubes with flaps inside called valves. Our valves and veins stop the blood from flowing backwards and pooling. When the veins and valves are not working properly, the valves can become damage as a result of venous disease. Venous disease includes blood clots, deep venous thrombosis, superficial venous thrombosis, chronic venous insufficiency, varicose and spider veins and ulcers.

Symptoms of venous disease can include leg pain, swelling, heaviness, visible varicose or spider veins, and skin discoloration. If you experience these symptoms, consult a vein specialist.

Many vein treatments are covered by insurance, especially if they are deemed medically necessary. Our team can help verify your coverage and guide you through the process. 

Vein treatments are typically minimally invasive and performed in our Ochsner Vein Clinic. Most procedures involve little to no downtime, allowing you to return to your daily activities quickly. 

Varicose veins are large, swollen veins that often appear twisted or bulging, usually on the legs. They can cause discomfort, pain or heaviness in the legs. Spider veins, on the other hand, are small, thin veins that appear close to the surface of the skin, often looking like red, blue or purple web-like lines. While both are caused by vein issues, spider veins are generally a cosmetic concern, whereas varicose veins can lead to more serious health problems.