Darwin Vein Clinic - Providing the Territory with the Latest Outpatient Treatments for Varicose Veins for Over10 Years
TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT CALL 02 9477 7177
ABOUT US
The Darwin Vein Clinic is the coming together of a group of highly skilled and experienced individuals with a common interest in the diagnosis and management of venous diseases. In one form or another we have been treating varicose veins in Darwin for almost 25 years. We are currently located within the Darwin CBD in air conditioned premises and have ample patient parking. We use state of the art, high-end ultrasound technology and employ the latest minimally invasive treatment techniques to provide Darwin with a world class approach to the management of venous disease.
A portion of all fees for outpatient procedures are covered by the Medicare Benefits Schedule and, where appropriate, also fall under the Extended Medicare Safety Net Scheme.
All types of varicose veins can now be treated without surgery which has been superseded by minimally invasive procedures. Our unique combination of clinical practitioners allows to treat a wide range of venous problems ranging from the simplest superficial or “spider veins” through to large varicose veins using injections (sclerotherapy) and/or laser (Endovenous Laser Ablation) to the most complex venous abnormalities that require radiological or surgical intervention.
The vast majority of our treatments are performed in-house, require no or only local anaesthetic and are “walk-in, walk-out” allowing patients to return to work almost immediately. All treatments are performed by doctors and all ultrasounds are performed by a highly trained vascular sonographer.
OUR SERVICES
ALL TREATMENTS PERFORMED BY A HIGHLY TRAINED VASCULAR SURGEON
Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy
Injection of both larger, deep and visible varicose veins with the assistance of ultrasound.
Diagnostic Ultrasound
Specialist venous ultrasound performed by a highly trained and experienced sonographer.
Popliteal Vein Decompression
Surgery to increase blood flow in veins that have been compressed by overlying structures.
75
Years of Combined Venous Clinical Experience
45 000
Combined Venous Treatments Performed
90 000
Diagnostic Venous Ultrasounds Performed
10
Happy Staff
OUR KEY STAFF
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Dr.Richard Harris
MBBS (USyd), FRACS (Vasc)
Vascular & Endovascular Surgeon
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Dr Harris completed his pre-fellowship training at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK, and Royal North Shore Hospital. He obtained fellowships in General Surgery and Vascular Surgery through the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons. Clinically, Dr Harris has a specific interest in minimally invasive Endovascular Surgery including repairing Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms, ballooning and stenting of arteries in the legs, coiling of ovarian veins and Endovenous Laser Ablation and Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy for the treatment of varicose veins. He also has a keen understanding of the diagnosis and management of chronic venous and diabetic ulcers and has developed unique and highly effective treatment protocols.
Mr. Michael Cuzzilla
DMU (Vasc), AMS (Vasc), RN
Vascular Sonographer
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Michael has been a specialist vascular sonographer for over 37 years and has been working in Darwin for 15 years. He is also a Registered Nurse and has a specific interest in the diagnosis and treatment of Venous Diseases. He has an extensive list of publications, presentations, clinical workshops and has been involved in several clinical trials related to the treatment of complex venous diseases. Michael was the first person to observe and describe a previously unrecognised venous syndrome as well as being the first sonographer to use new technology to provide insight in to how venous valves work. He has also been involved in the implementation of Endovenous Laser and ultrasound guided sclerotherapy in several vascular and phlebology practices.
FAQ's
How do veins work?
Our arteries provide the pathway that allows the driving force of the heart to push blood rich in oxygen around the body to where it is needed. Veins carry the used blood back to the heart and then on to the lungs to be re-oxygenated, i.e. carbon dioxide is removed and replaced with oxygen. Unlike arteries, veins do not have the help of a powerful pump like the heart and in our legs they must also work against gravity. Instead, muscle groups contract in unison creating a series of smaller pumps that “milk” blood along the vein. To counter gravity, one-way valves of varying sizes situated within the veins open and close helping blood flow back to the heart by preventing it from falling backwards. An analogy to the venous valve system in the leg is a series of locks in a river that allow boats to move up a hill.
What causes varicose veins?
The venous system in our legs is divided into two interconnected groups: SUPERFICIAL and DEEP. Varicose veins are an abnormality of the superficial veins nearer the skin and are primarily caused by weakening or stretching of the valve ring or valve support. This results in excessive stretching of the two valve halves and they no longer meet in the middle. When the valves cease to function, blood falls back through the valve (reflux) and we say that the valves are “incompetent”. Because the veins are not adequately emptied, the pressure within the venous system increases and remains much higher than it should be. The vein walls, which in most patients with venous disease are inherently weak, stretch and the vein enlarges. As the veins continue to increase in size they become tortuous and may appear as a knotted rope under the skin. Venous disease is often inherited and is also associated with pregnancy, obesity and standing for long periods. Blood clotting within the vein may also cause problems by either blocking the vein and/or damaging the valves.
Are varicose veins harmful?
Problems related to venous disease varies from person to person and depends on whether the deep or superficial systems are involved. There may be tiny "flare" or "spider" veins, cramping or "restless legs" or with progression, unsightly tortuous, swollen and discoloured larger varicose veins. In more severe cases there may be leg pain, cramping, swelling and discolouration of the skin. Ulceration of the lower, inner portion of the leg is not uncommon in cases of very large and numerous varicose veins or Chronic Deep Venous Disease. Varicose veins can also significantly increase the risk of developing blood clots.
How are varicose veins diagnosed?
A good history and clinical or physical examination is an excellent start and can reveal a lot however in most cases, an ultrasound will be required to determine the extent and severity of your venous disease. The ultrasound investigations are non-invasive and detect exactly where the veins are and if they are functioning normally. Measurements of blood flow direction and volume and, vein sizes are recorded producing what we call a “Venous Map”. This information is critical when determining and planning treatment.
What is the latest treatment for varicose veins?
The treatment of venous disease has changed dramatically over the last 5-10 years and as a result, it is uncommon to treat patients’ varicose veins in a purely conservative manner, e.g. wearing graduated compression stockings. Combinations of injection treatment (sclerotherapy), Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy and Endovenous Laser Ablation have essentially replaced surgery as the treatment of choice. Almost all procedures are minimally invasive and performed as an outpatient using no or only local anaesthetic. The most applicable depends on the type, severity and location of the problem as determined by ultrasound. The newer techniques allow us to treat almost everyone, irrespective of their age or other health issues as long as they walk.
How much will it cost to have my varicose veins treated?
A portion of all fees for all procedures are covered by the Medicare Benefits Scheme and the Extended Medicare safety Net. Fees are based on the type and number of treatments required as determined by the ultrasound, clinical need and patients’ requirements. All patients will be given a detailed estimate of their fees prior to commencing treatment.
CONTACT US
NB: You will need a referral from your GP to see Dr Harris.
Our Address
Business Hours
Monday – Friday 9:30AM – 5:30PM