British Association of Sclerotherapists – Annual Conference
Date: 18th May 2017
Venue: Dorney Lake Conference Centre, Eton.
FASCINATING 3D IMAGERY OF VENOUS SYSTEM
Dr Jean-Francois Uhl ,Vascular surgeon and Research Director, UNESCO Chair of Digital Anatomy, Paris, fascinated an audience of vascular surgeons and aesthetic doctors and nurses as he led them on an enlightening journey through the venous system, at the British Association of Sclerotherapists Conference on 18th May 2017. His enthusiasm for his subject was engaging, as he drew on an exceptional knowledge of leg vein anatomy and showed 3D images that were a revelation.
Delegates learnt from Mr Sudip Ray, Consultant Vascular Surgeon, about a new procedure for closing the main vein in the leg that causes varicose veins (usually either the great saphenous vein GSV or the small saphenous vein SSV or both), and discussed what can be achieved with this new ‘super glue’ treatment
Dr Martyn King, Aesthetic Physician and Chairperson, Aesthetic Complications Expert Group, explored new technologies that help find even the most elusive veins, including Accuvein, Veinlite and Venography and the new iPhone and Android Apps. Delegates tried out Accuvein at Q Technology’s exhibition stand.
There was much interest in the talk by Mr Philip Coleridge Smith (Consultant Vascular Surgeon, President of the BAS) on Sclerotherapy for ankles, feet, hands, arms, chest, and face. Many practitioners had questions about the effectiveness and risks of these treatments, and Philip’s experience was illuminating.
After lunch the audience had the opportunity to observe first hand two of the most experienced microsclerotherapists in the country (Julie Halford RGN and Claire Judge RGN) demonstrating their technique and sharing tips to an interested and receptive audience. One delegate commented that the opportunity to observe ‘experts at work’ was invaluable, and that she picked up lots of skilled information and tips.
In a parallel session Mr Coleridge Smith demonstrated foam sclerotherapy treatment using ultrasound, which generated considerable interest from practitioners
Dr Martyn King gave an overview of how he himself has marketed his growing and highly successful aesthetic clinic, Cosmedic Skin Clinic. “The biggest mistake in marketing “, he said, “is forgetting to do an
ything!! Being too busy is not an excuse”. As well as sharing top tips for branding, advertising and promotion, he emphasised the importance of excellent customer service and making clients feel valued. “It costs far less to retain a customer than to gain a new one” he said.
The superb venue, Dorney Lake Conference Centre, was praised by all. Delegates loved the view over the Eton Rowing Lake, where the Olympic rowing events were held in 2012, and the rain held off just long enough to lunch outside on the balcony overlooking the lake. Several eights were being put through their punishing paces during the afternoon, making a relaxing diversion!
BAS CPD certificates are accepted by GMC and NMC as evidence for appraisal and revalidation.
Quotes from delegates:
“Excellent meeting. Great location, accessible to airport. My practice will change on the back of meeting content.” Consultant Vascular Surgeon, Belfast
“Really enjoyable collegial meeting” Consultant Vascular Surgeon, St James’ Hospital Dublin
“Very informative content, high quality speakers, good mixture of content for both medical + nursing staff. Superb venue.” Aesthetic Nurse
Sponsors:
The event was sponsored by STD Pharmaceuticals, Credenhill and Daylong, Q Medical Technologies, BSN Medical and Hamilton Fraser Cosmetic Insurance.
About the BAS:
The British Association of Sclerotherapists is a non-profit organisation whose members include vascular surgeons, physicians and nurses, and aesthetic doctors and nurses, represented and supported by the BAS Board, a body of experts whose role is to establish consensus on best practice and inform and educate members and the public. Conferences are held every 1 – 2 years, as well as regional workshop
s from time to time. The informative website offers advice for patients and practitioners
Thank you also to PMFA for an excellent write up of the BAS Conference!
Nice to get a mention in the National Press – Further warnings to the general public to see a registered medical professional if considering an aesthetic treatment as things can and do go wrong!
