Top-rated vascular surgeon and venous expert, Karem Harth, MD, has joined the team at University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center in Ashland. Dr. Harth currently serves as Director of the Center for Comprehensive Venous Care and Co-Medical Director of Vascular Laboratories at University Hospitals Harrington Heart & Vascular Institute. She is also an Associate Professor of Surgery at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine.  

Venous disease is any condition that affects the functioning of our veins, an important part of the body’s circulatory system. While symptoms are often minor in the early stages, some vein disorders can progress and become a serious, even life-threatening, health problem. For this reason, it’s important to see a vascular specialist for a comprehensive evaluation. 

Chronic venous insufficiency is the most common venous condition, causing symptoms of leg swelling, heaviness, aching, itching and burning. Excess weight, age, family history, pregnancy, hormone therapy, prolonged sitting or standing, and venous valve reflux are all known risk factors. The veins become floppy and stretch like balloons, which leads to increased pressure in the veins. The increased pressure creates a state of constant inflammation in the legs, which ultimately damages the skin. In very advanced cases, ulcers can develop in the lower leg around the ankles. 

Venous insufficiency can also affect other parts of the body.  

Pelvic congestion syndrome is a common condition in women, but because its symptoms can mimic other conditions, it often goes unrecognized and can lead to years of chronic pelvic pain and poor quality of life.  

Venous thrombosis is a serious condition where a blood clot becomes lodged in a vein and slows or blocks the circulation of blood. When a clot lodges in one of the deep veins, it’s called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This can lead to significant limb swelling, disabling pain, scarring and other complications. 

Sometimes men and women with IVC filters that have never been removed can experience obstruction in the main pelvic veins.  

“It can be hard for patients to know where to go for their venous condition, or to know all of the therapy options,” says Dr. Harth. “Patients with prior interventions that have either failed or recurred have a more challenging case which can leave them with fewer options.” 

Treatment of recurrent venous issues is not routinely available in most vascular practices. Where some patients may have had trouble finding advanced venous disease treatment options in the past, Dr. Harth is skilled in offering the latest therapies tailored to each patient’s recurrent symptoms and venous anatomy with good success. In addition, Dr. Harth is a lead investigator on multiple venous clinical trials and a highly sought expert in this field. Her vast venous knowledge and dedication brings exciting new hope to patients, including those who previously had no options. 

“We begin by completing a comprehensive evaluation which starts with medical history, physical and thorough ultrasound. Based on the information gathered, we offer one or a combination of clinically indicated procedures to get the best outcome,” says Dr. Harth. 

Nonsurgical and surgical treatment options are available, depending on age, overall health, symptoms and personal preference. These therapies are also primarily offered in the outpatient setting with minimal limitations during recovery and quick return to work. 

“Venous disease is a chronic condition requiring longitudinal care and a good understanding of venous physiology. I enjoy the opportunity to help patients achieve an improved quality of life and a boost of energy and confidence. It’s extremely rewarding,” says Dr. Harth. 

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Harth at UH Samaritan Medical Center, call 419-289-9800. To learn more about heart and vascular care at UH Samaritan Medical Center, visit UHhospitals.org/SamaritanHeart.