April 7, 2006

New Vascular Center opens at MassGeneral West

The MGH Vascular Center recently opened a second location at MassGeneral West in Waltham, offering specialized, state-of-the-art services at a convenient location for residents west of Boston. In addition to the Vascular Center on the main campus, the new facility is an important component of the MGH's commitment to providing comprehensive diagnosis and management of vascular disorders. At left, MGH nurse Jacqueline Somerville, RN, conducts a free screening at the center's open house.

The Vascular Center provides evaluation of and treatment for the full spectrum of vascular conditions, including peripheral arterial disease, cerebrovascular disease, aneurysmal disease, renovascular disease, venous thromboembolic disease, disorders of blood coagulation, nonhealing wounds, limb edema and arteriovenous malformations. The center comprises seven major clinical disciplines that provide vascular care by bringing together specialists from Cardiology/Vascular Medicine, Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Vascular Radiology, Neurology, Neurosurgery, Cardiac Surgery and Nephrology. It is the only center of its kind in the country to use this type of multidisciplinary approach for the diagnosis and treatment of vascular disease.

"It is truly an honor to bring the Vascular Center and all of its great capabilities to the wonderful community of Waltham," said Peter L. Slavin, MD, president of the MGH, at a ribbon-cutting ceremony March 16. "At this convenient location, patients don't have to commute into the city to benefit from our world-class vascular care."

An open house for the community also was held March 25, with more than 150 area residents touring the facility, receiving free screenings for peripheral arterial disease and meeting with Vascular Center physicians to discuss their test results.