OLEAN, N.Y. – Olean General Hospital (OGH), a Kaleida Health facility, acquired a new tool to better treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition that causes blood clots to form in deep veins, usually in the legs.

OGH introduced the use of the Symphony Catheter by Imperative Care, a high-tech device that helps physicians remove blood clots more safely and more effectively. This new technology brings a game-changing approach to venous thromboembolism (VTE) treatment, OGH officials said, delivering powerful clot removal with real-time feedback and control providing physicians with the ability to remove clots of different sizes while protecting the veins and reducing blood loss.

“The Symphony system allows our vascular team to remove the largest clot burden with minimal trauma to the vessel, often in less time and with more predictable outcomes,” said Dr. Ian Wilson, interventional radiologist at OGH. “Most importantly, it gives our patients a faster return to normal blood flow and an easier recovery.”

Unlike traditional approaches that often require hospitalization, this minimally invasive outpatient procedure allows most patients to return home the same day. After treatment, patients typically remain on a course of anticoagulation therapy — medications that thin the blood — and follow-up visits to ensure long-term vein health.

DVT can become life-threatening if left untreated. Risk factors for DVT include immobility, surgery, pregnancy, obesity, smoking, age and other medical conditions. This year alone, the vascular team at OGH has treated more than 135 patients.

“With tools like the Symphony Catheter, OGH continues to enhance outcomes and improve quality of life for patients,” hospital officials said.

For more information about vascular services at OGH, visit brmc-ogh.org. The Comprehensive Vascular Center is located at 623 Main St. on the ground floor. To make an appointment, call (716) 375-7035.