Dr. Lowell Kabnick, a renowned vascular surgeon and Chancellor of Vein and Lymphatic University, recently had the privilege of visiting the beautiful island of Aruba, not just for its scenic landscapes and warm hospitality, but for a truly inspiring venture that epitomizes the power of collaboration and innovation in healthcare.

His journey to Aruba was made possible through the invitation of Dr. Yuri Casseres, a distinguished vascular surgeon practicing at Horacio Oduber Hospital. Dr. Casseres and Dr. Kabnick had the pleasure of meeting two years ago, and since then, their friendship has blossomed, fueled by their shared passion for advancing medical care.

Dr. Casseres, who was trained in Holland, serves as the Medical Coordinator at the Center for Advanced Wound Care at Horacio Oduber Hospital. It was through his initiative that Dr. Kabnick was invited to participate as faculty at the Hospital’s 6th Island Wound Care Symposium 2023.

During the conference, Dr. Kabnick had the opportunity to engage with medical professionals from Aruba and beyond, sharing his insights and experiences in the field of venous diagnosis and treatment. At this event, Dr. Kabnick sparked the beginning of a transformative journey for venous care in Aruba.

Dr. Kabnick, Dr. Casseres, and Mr. Jacco Vroegop, the CEO of Horacio Oduber Hospital, discussed the need to continue the modernization of varicose vein diagnosis and vein care in Aruba. Recognizing the importance of thermal ablation in treating varicose vein disorders, Mr. Vroegop and Dr. Cassares agreed to introduce this technology to benefit patients on the island.

On April 12, 2024, history was made as the first 1470nm laser thermal ablation procedure in Aruba took place at Horacio Oduber Hospital. Dr. Casseres and Dr. Kabnick, along with a team of dedicated nurses and an ultrasound technologist, embarked on this journey together, performing five cases ranging from simple to complex.

Dr. Kabnick was pleased to report that all procedures were successful, marking a significant milestone in Aruba’s healthcare landscape. In addition, he extended his congratulations to Dr. Casseres, Mr. Vroegop, and the entire team at Horacio Oduber Hospital for their commitment to innovation and patient care.

Dr. Kabnick concluded, “This endeavor exemplifies the power of collaboration and underscores the importance of staying at the forefront of medical advancements. As we celebrate this achievement, let us continue to work together towards a future where every patient has access to the latest and most effective treatments.”