Aching legs talk offered

LEWISTON — “Oh My Aching Legs” will be the subject of two Central Maine Medical Center Accenting Your Health presentations set for September.

Vascular surgeon Michael Ricci, M.D., will discuss the signs, symptoms and treatment of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) of the legs, a condition that can be quite painful.

PAD is caused by a narrowing of the arteries, usually resulting from a gradual buildup of plaque within the arteries (atherosclerosis). As the arteries become narrowed, blood flow is reduced. PAD affects about eight million people in the United States. Treatment options for PAD may include surgery.

Michael A. Ricci, M.D., a vascular surgeon, recently joined Central Maine Cardiovascular Surgery in Lewiston. Prior to joining the greater Lewiston-Auburn medical community, he practiced at Fletcher Allen Health Care in Burlington, VT.

Ricci has extensive experience as a practicing surgeon and surgical educator. He started Vermont’s first vascular lab and initiated the endovascular repair of aortic aneurysms in the region.

He is certified by the American Board of Surgery, with added qualifications in critical care and vascular surgery. He is also certified as an Advanced Trauma Life Support instructor.

The program will be presented at 1:30 p.m. on September 17 and 6 p.m. on September 20. Both sessions will be held in the first-floor conference room in the Young Wing, located near the main entrance to CMMC at 60 High Street.

There is no cost for attending the presentation.

Those interested in attending either of the programs are urged to register in advance by calling 795-8448, e-mailing prevention@cmhc.org, or registering on-line at www.cmmc.org.

Interpreter services are available upon advance request.