East Tennessee Vein Clinic PC

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East Tennessee Vein Clinic is a private practice founded by Andrew M. Douglass, M.D. Dr. Douglass was the first full-time phlebologist-specialist in vein disorders, in East Tennessee. We invite you to browse through our web site and learn about vein disease, with minimal surgery, using the most advanced technologies. At East Tennessee Vein Clinic we treat only vein disease.

Much of vein disease is hidden. Varicose Veins visible on the surface of the skin are usually the tip of the iceberg. Other diseased veins that feed into the visible varicose veins lie hidden deeper in the skin. Ultrasound imaging allows us to see beneath the skin to the entire network of vein disease. Finding the root source of vein disease allows us to make an accurate diagnosis in order to treat effectively.
All screenings and treatments are performed by Dr. Andrew Douglass. At the time of your consultation he will spend 30-45 minutes with you. An ultrasound screening of your legs will help him assess the extent of your vein disease and allow him to prepare a treatment plan.

Reticular veins (bluish-green veins measuring 2-3 mm or more) and spider veins (red or purple veins measuring 1-2 mm) assume their appearance because one way valves within these veins cease to function allowing blood to congest the vein and make it swell. The stagnant blood within these veins is so superficial that nerves within the skin are often irritated causing a stinging or burning sensation. Muscles are also irritated causing aching, cramps, or restlessness.
These veins are usually hereditary and are...

Vein disease is often painful and unsightly. This is what the great majority of patients with varicose and spider veins experience. However, approximately 1% of patients with vein disease develop complications. Among the complications of venous disease are bleeding, phlebitis and venous leg ulcer.
Venous leg ulcers result from the very slow venous outflow from failed veins so impeding arterial inflow that circulation is markedly impaired in the skin. The skin at first gradually darkens and thins. Ultimately, an ulcer develops.

Normal flow in veins. The calf muscle contacts forcing the blood past one way valves that only allow the blood to move heartward.

The cause lies primarily in heredity. It is believed a genetic defect leads to the valve failure and vein swelling.