LEWISTON — The Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute will offer a free varicose vein screening on Thursday, May 16.

The event will also include a brief presentation by a vascular surgeon who treats varicose veins. The screening service will be conducted by a physician assistant who has special expertise in assessing lower extremity circulatory anatomy.

The information session, presented from 2:30 to 3 p.m., will feature vascular surgeon Michael Ricci, MD. He will explain what causes varicose veins, how the condition is diagnosed and what treatment options are available to address the problem.

The screenings will be offered from 3 to 5 p.m. and will be performed by physician assistant Danielle George. She will complete a brief assessment to determine the patient’s potential for varicose veins. The results of the screening will be reported back to the program participant and recommendations for vascular ultrasound testing and consultation with a surgeon will be provided.

Varicose veins are a cosmetic concern for most people. But for others, they cause pain and discomfort. Left untreated, varicose veins can lead to skin changes and ulcers.

Ricci joined the Central Maine Medical Center Medical staff last year. He started the first vascular lab in Vermont and initiated the endovascular repair of aortic aneurysms in that region. He is a co-author of more than 100 scientific articles on vascular surgery, telemedicine, simulation and operating room safety. He is state air surgeon for the Vermont Air National Guard, holding the rank of colonel. He has served as a flight surgeon and a vascular surgeon in the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

George is a graduate of Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Mich., and Finch University of Health Sciences/Chicago Medical School, North Chicago. She completed residency training in surgery at Spectrum Health/Western University of Michigan, Grand Rapids, Mich. She is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants.

The program is one of a year-long series of events marking the 10th anniversary of the opening of the Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute.

The informational session will be held in the first-floor conference room in the Young Wing, located near the 60 High Street entrance to Central Maine Medical Center. Screening will be done only by appointment. To schedule a screening, call 795-8260.

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