On behalf of the 2010 Program Committee, I would like to invite you and your family to the American College of Phlebology’s 24th Annual Congress in Orlando, Florida. I am very excited about this year’s program! The Planning Committee has done a fantastic job creating a program that meets the educational needs of both the expert and novice phlebologist. Nationally and internationally recognized experts in the field of phlebology have been hand picked to present on clinically and practically relevant topics which have been selected based on feedback from you.
As in previous years, the meeting begins on Thursday with the Pre-Congress. On this day, comprehensive symposia on basic phlebology, ultrasound, aesthetics, and practice management are provided to allow participants to immerse themselves in these topics and gain essential skills and knowledge to advance their clinical practices.
The Congress, beginning Friday, starts off each morning with four special interest sessions. These early morning sessions provide a unique opportunity to interact directly with experts in a small group environment. In addition to these particular sessions, there will be instructional courses, a variety of symposia featuring experts from across the globe, and daily abstract sessions which will provide attendees the opportunity to stay up to date in the latest and greatest scientific and practical clinical information.
Our keynote speaker will be Paolo Zamboni, Professor of Medicine at the University of Ferrara in Italy. Dr. Zamboni has pioneered the concept of Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency (CCVI) and its role in Multiple Sclerosis. The concept of cerebral venous obstruction causing tissue-damage in the brain similar to the way it causes tissue-damage in the lower extremities is a completely novel approach to MS research which could be a “sea change” in the understanding and treatment of this condition. This work is remarkably innovative and offers hope to those afflicted with this difficult to treat illness. New this year is the expansion of the scientific program with concurrent focused abstract sessions. These sessions will allow investigators to present their research in a setting where the audience has ample opportunity to ask questions so that they may fully appreciate the value of the work presented. In addition, Phlebology Jeopardy will take place during the general session.
This entertaining educational endeavor will feature leaders in the field as contestants seeking the coveted honor of “Phlebology Jeopardy Champion.” Come and see who will take the prize.Through funding provided by the ACP Foundation, the ACP is offering up to forty Physician-in-Training Scholarships to residents, fellows, and junior faculty members. Medical students will be considered as well. This $1500 reward will cover Pre-Congress and Congress Registration ($500 for scholars), leaving $1000 for the scholarship recipient to use towards air, hotel, food and other meeting expenses. This is a great way for physicians to learn about venous disease and how to treat veins.
The ACP Foundation will be hosting the 5th Annual Golf Outing and the 3rd Annual Silent Auction -- fun events that provide an opportunity for members and others to raise funds for the ACP Foundation. The Golf Outing will be held on Wednesday, November 3rd, the day before the Congress begins, giving our golf enthusiasts plenty of time to relax in the Florida sunshine and enjoy the company of peers before the Congress begins. Bidding on the donated items will be exciting for everyone as the Silent Auction raises funds for the ACP Foundation. This event is sure to be fun for attend-ees and family members alike.
Make plans to join us November 6-7, 2010 in Orlando, Florida, the entertainment capital of the world. With warm temperatures, an innovative scientific and educational program, and a million things to see and do, this meeting should not be missed. I look forward to person-ally welcoming all of you at this year’s Congress. I am certain it will be an ex-perience that will not be forgotten.
