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Amputation Prevention

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Amputation Prevention: Empowering Lives, Preserving Limbs

Amputation is a life-altering event that can have profound physical, emotional, and social implications. However, in many cases, amputation can be prevented with timely intervention, proactive healthcare, and patient education. Let’s explore the importance of amputation prevention and the strategies that can make a significant difference in preserving limbs and improving quality of life.

Early Detection and Treatment:

One of the key factors in amputation prevention is early detection and prompt treatment of underlying conditions that can lead to limb-threatening complications. This includes conditions such as peripheral artery disease (PAD), diabetic foot ulcers, infections, and severe trauma. Regular check-ups, routine screenings, and proactive management of chronic diseases are vital in identifying potential risks early on.

Comprehensive Wound Care:

Effective wound care is critical in preventing infections and promoting healing, particularly in individuals with chronic wounds or ulcers. Prompt attention to any cuts, sores, or wounds, especially in high-risk populations such as diabetic patients, can significantly reduce the risk of complications that may necessitate amputation. This involves proper cleaning, dressing, and close monitoring of wounds, along with the use of advanced wound care techniques and therapies.

Managing Underlying Conditions:

Managing underlying conditions that contribute to limb-threatening complications is crucial in amputation prevention. For individuals with diabetes, maintaining optimal blood sugar control is essential to prevent peripheral nerve damage and impaired circulation. Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as adopting a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help manage conditions like PAD and reduce the risk of amputation.

Multidisciplinary Care and Patient Education:

Collaboration among healthcare professionals from various specialties is paramount in preventing amputation. A multidisciplinary approach involving vascular surgeons, podiatrists, wound care specialists, physical therapists, and other relevant healthcare providers can offer comprehensive care tailored to individual needs. Patient education plays a vital role in empowering individuals to understand their conditions, recognize warning signs, and actively participate in their own care. Education on proper foot care, self-examination techniques, and lifestyle modifications can significantly contribute to preventing complications.

Prosthetics, Rehabilitation, and Support:

In cases where amputation is unavoidable, comprehensive rehabilitation services and access to quality prosthetics play a crucial role in restoring functionality and improving the overall quality of life for individuals. Adequate support networks, including counseling services and peer support groups, can help individuals navigate the emotional and social challenges associated with limb loss.

Amputation is not always an inevitable outcome.

Through proactive measures, early intervention, and comprehensive care, we can significantly reduce the number of amputations and empower individuals to live fulfilling lives with all their limbs intact. Together, let’s promote amputation prevention, raise awareness, and make a positive impact on the lives of countless individuals.

Introducing Daniel Krcelic M.D.

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Introducing Daniel Krcelic M.D.

 

Western Vascular Institute is excited to introduce Daniel Krcelic M.D. has joined our group of exceptional vascular surgeons. We are very grateful for his addition and look forward to the unparalleled vascular care he will provide to the WVI patients.

Doctor Krcelic is trained in all aspects of vascular surgery in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. He completed his fellowship in vascular surgery at Carolinas Medical Center and Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute in Charlotte. Dr. Krcelic said. “I care deeply about my patients, and joining Western Vascular Institute brings another skilled vascular specialist to meet the needs of patients in the Phoenix Metro Area,”.

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Western Vascular Institute Voted Arizona’s Best Medical Specialists

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Lovin’ Life After 50 has awarded Western Vascular Institute as America’s Best Medical Specialist!

We are grateful to be voted as the best medical specialist recommended by readers and peers in the Lovin’ Life after 50 Magazine and website.

Check out our award in Lovin’ Life After 50 (see page 34)!

Visit Western Vascular Institute Today!

If you are in the Phoenix, Arizona area and looking for a vein or vascular clinic, visit Western Vascular Institute today! Our board-certified surgeons specialize in utilizing the latest in technology to provide the best in vein and vascular care. For more information, call (480) 668-5000 and schedule an appointment today!

 

What is a Unna Boot?

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What is the purpose of an Unna Boot?

An Unna Boot is a type of compression bandage that is specifically designed to treat and manage venous leg ulcers. It consists of a layer of zinc-impregnated, semi-rigid gauze wrapped around the affected leg, followed by an outer layer of cohesive compression bandage.

The purpose of an Unna Boot is to provide sustained, therapeutic compression to the lower leg, which helps improve venous circulation, reduce swelling, and promote the healing of venous ulcers. Here are some key benefits and functions of an Unna Boot:

Compression:

The primary purpose of an Unna Boot is to apply compression to the affected leg. The bandage provides consistent and graduated pressure, typically ranging from 20-30 mmHg, which helps to reduce venous congestion and increase blood flow toward the heart. Compression aids in controlling edema (swelling) and enhances venous return, thereby improving overall circulation.

Healing Environment:

The zinc-impregnated gauze layer within the Unna Boot provides several benefits. Zinc is known for its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which help create an optimal environment for wound healing by reducing the risk of infection. The semi-rigid nature of the gauze offers support and protection to the wound site.

Moisture Management:

The gauze layer in the Unna Boot acts as a moisture barrier, helping to absorb excess exudate (fluid) from the wound and maintain an appropriate level of moisture for wound healing. It prevents the wound from becoming too dry or too moist, facilitating the healing process.

Immobilization:

The Unna Boot offers some degree of immobilization, which helps prevent excessive movement of the affected leg. Immobilization can reduce pain and irritation, allowing the wound to heal more effectively.

Convenience and Long-lasting Effect:

The Unna Boot remains in place once applied, for an extended period (typically 1 to 2 weeks) without requiring frequent changes. This convenience reduces the need for frequent dressing changes and provides a continuous, therapeutic compression effect.

Unna Boot applications should be performed by a vascular surgeon with expertise in wound care. The bandage needs to be applied correctly, ensuring appropriate tension and coverage, to achieve optimal therapeutic benefits. Regular monitoring and assessment by a healthcare provider are essential to evaluate the progress of wound healing, adjust compression levels, and address any potential complications.

If you have a venous leg ulcer or a similar condition, consult with a vascular surgeon to determine if an Unna Boot is suitable for your situation and to receive proper guidance on its application and usage.

 

Vascular Surgeons the real “vascular specialists”

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Vascular Surgeons diagnose, treat, and manage the full spectrum of vascular diseases.

“If you only have a hammer you tend to see every problem as a nail.”

Some vascular “specialists” perform one or two kinds of vascular interventions, so their patients tend to get those treatments. Vascular Surgeons are trained in all treatment modalities and are able to perform every type of procedure skillfully: open, complicated surgery and minimally invasive, in-office endovascular procedures. Some patients need one, some need the other, while many need no surgery at all. Vascular Surgeons are “treatment agnostic,” that is, they do not prefer any treatment over another.

Some types of surgeons come into your life to perform a procedure, make sure you heal and then leave; that’s their role. A vascular surgeon is someone who treats you on an ongoing basis for decades. A vascular surgeon very often has long-term relationships with patients because vascular disease can be a long-term condition.

At Western Vascular Institute, patients will get the best treatment for their particular needs in a caring and safe environment by a vascular surgeon with a full toolbox of treatment options!

https://vascular.org/patients/what-vascular-surgeon

https://www.westernvascular.com/about/

The Joint Commission Gold Seal Of Approval / Certification

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The Joint Commission?

What is it?

The Joint Commission is an independent non-profit organization that accredits and certifies healthcare organizations in the United States. A Joint Commission accreditation and Gold Seal of approval is a symbol of Quality and Excellence that reflects an organization’s commitment to meeting and exceeding performance and safety standards.

Why should you care?

Hospitals are required to be joint commission accredited in order to provide the safest and appropriate care for their patients. But Accreditation is not required for outpatient centers such as Western Vascular Institute. Western Vascular requests these audits and subjects themselves to intense scrutiny to show our patients our continued commitment to quality care & outcomes in vein and artery treatments.

Are All Vein and Vascular centers accredited?

No, in fact, Western Vascular Institute is the only Vein and Vascular group in Arizona providing in-office care, dedicated to peripheral vascular disease accredited by The Joint Commission.

We believe that quality is the result of excellent work without compromise.

 

What is a Vascular Ultrasound?

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Vascular Ultrasound or Duplex study

 

A Vascular Ultrasound or Duplex study is a non-invasive test performed to evaluate a patient’s blood flow through the arteries and veins. The test provides Vascular Surgeons with the information they need to provide a diagnosis and set a course of treatment for each patient. All the ultrasound technicians at Western Vascular Institute are trained specifically in Vascular sonography, and the IAC Intersocietal Accreditation Commission accredits our facilities for vascular sonography.

Patients can rely on accreditation to indicate that the facility that performs their examination has proven a commitment to providing quality testing for the diagnosis of vascular disease. Patients can rest assured that accredited facilities have been carefully critiqued on all aspects of their operations considered relevant by medical experts in the field of vascular technology.

Health care organizations are held to very high levels of accountability by peers and the general public. In numerous states, reimbursement directives that require accreditation of the facility have been instituted by Medicare carriers and private, third-party insurers. Similar draft payment policies are pending throughout the United States. Facilities attaining accreditation before it is required for reimbursement demonstrate a willingness to surpass current expectations.

The general public and the vascular testing community members will recognize an unmatched commitment to providing quality health care by facilities that achieve IAC Vascular Testing accreditation.

 

https://vascular.org/patient-resources/vascular-tests

Introducing Dr. David J. Paolini

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Dr. David J. Paolini Vascular Surgeon with Western Vascular Institute. Board Certified Vascular Surgeon

Dr. David Paolini is a Vascular Surgeon with over 15 years of Vascular Surgery experience.  Dr. Paolini recently joined Western Vascular Institute as one of our acclaimed vascular surgeons from the Jobst vascular center in Toledo, Ohio. Dr. Paolini has had a passion for medicine and physics from a young age, feeling that Vascular Surgery is the perfect combination of the two scientific areas. Dr. Paolini completed his medical school training from Temple University (One of the best Medical Schools in the united states) in 1999 and after that moved to New Mexico to begin his residency at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center Department of Surgery. After completing a 5-year surgical residency Dr. Paolini then moved to Toledo, Ohio to complete a Vascular Surgery specific fellowship at the prestigious Jobst Vascular Center. Dr. Paolini quickly gained accolades as one of the most innovative and competent vascular surgeons in the area as well as being heavily invested in Vascular Surgery research and publications. Dr. Paolini’s care philosophy is “ to take care of patients like you would want your kids’ taken care of ”. As a father of two wonderful children and supported by his beautiful wife Dr. Paolini is poised to join the ranks of the great caring vascular surgeons here at Western Vascular Institute. Dr. Paolini’s previous patients have described dr. Paolini as being kind, compassionate, & honest. We are excited to have Dr. Paolini as part Western Vascular Institute. Dr. Paolini is now accepting new patients in the Mesa and Payson office locations. For an appointment with Dr. Paolini please contact one of our new patient coordinators at (480) 668-5000 ext. 332

 

Payson Grand Opening

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[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”no” hundred_percent_height=”no” hundred_percent_height_scroll=”no” hundred_percent_height_center_content=”yes” equal_height_columns=”no” menu_anchor=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”center center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” fade=”no” background_parallax=”none” enable_mobile=”no” parallax_speed=”0.3″ video_mp4=”” video_webm=”” video_ogv=”” video_url=”” video_aspect_ratio=”16:9″ video_loop=”yes” video_mute=”yes” video_preview_image=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” margin_top=”” margin_bottom=”” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=””][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ layout=”1_1″ spacing=”” center_content=”no” link=”” target=”_self” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” hover_type=”none” border_size=”0″ border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_position=”all” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” dimension_margin=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” last=”no”][fusion_text columns=”” column_min_width=”” column_spacing=”” rule_style=”default” rule_size=”” rule_color=”” class=”” id=””]Western Vascular Institute is now in Payson. We have spent the last several months getting our new office space at 708 S. Couer D’ Alene Ln Payson, AZ 85541 ready to see patients

We now have all our signage up and the interior office portion looking great! We are officially open and seeing patients Monday, Wednesday, & Friday until Dec 1st when we will be seeing patients Mon-Friday. On Friday December 1st 2017 from 11:30am – 2:00pm we will be having a grand opening celebration with KMOG live radio broadcast, BBQ, and give-aways. We are excited to further our relationship with the town of Payson and are excited to provide the same quality of care that our doctors have provided for years in Mesa, and Phoenix to the patients of Payson.

We are excited to welcome Kim Alten FNP-BC, Danette Anderson, and Amber Jacobs to our Payson office and will soon announce a local Payson Surgeon joining the group on December 1st. In the coming weeks we will be continuing work and completion of our in-office procedural /surgical suite. This new suite will allow many of our interventions and procedures to be done in the comfort of our office and allow patients to stay in Payson and return to their own home for recovery. Thanks for the warm welcome Payson, we are excited to be here![/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_2″ layout=”1_2″ spacing=”” center_content=”no” link=”” target=”_self” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” hover_type=”none” border_size=”0″ border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_position=”all” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” dimension_margin=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” last=”no”][fusion_imageframe image_id=”799″ max_width=”” style_type=”none” stylecolor=”” hover_type=”none” bordersize=”” bordercolor=”” borderradius=”” align=”center” lightbox=”no” gallery_id=”” lightbox_image=”” alt=”” link=”” linktarget=”_self” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=””]http://www.westernvascular.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/payson-grand-opening-doc.jpg[/fusion_imageframe][/fusion_builder_column][fusion_builder_column type=”1_2″ layout=”1_2″ spacing=”” center_content=”no” link=”” target=”_self” min_height=”” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” background_color=”” background_image=”” background_position=”left top” background_repeat=”no-repeat” hover_type=”none” border_size=”0″ border_color=”” border_style=”solid” border_position=”all” padding_top=”” padding_right=”” padding_bottom=”” padding_left=”” dimension_margin=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=”” last=”no”][fusion_imageframe image_id=”800″ max_width=”” style_type=”none” stylecolor=”” hover_type=”none” bordersize=”” bordercolor=”” borderradius=”” align=”center” lightbox=”no” gallery_id=”” lightbox_image=”” alt=”” link=”” linktarget=”_self” hide_on_mobile=”small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_direction=”left” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_offset=””]http://www.westernvascular.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/payson-grand-opening-staff.jpg[/fusion_imageframe][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

Western Vascular Welcomes Dr. Dawn Olsen

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Western Vascular Institute is proud to welcome Dr. Dawn Olsen D.O to WVI’s esteemed group of Vascular surgeons.

Dr. Olsen is a skilled Vascular Surgeon who has devoted herself to caring for those with vascular disease. Initially, Dr. Olsen became a vascular Physician Assistant (PA) at the Arizona Heart Institute under the tutelage of world-recognized surgeon, Dr. Edward B. Diethrich. After years of unparalleled service as a vascular PA Dr. Olsen further realized her dedicated passion for vascular medicine, and in 2008 returned to school to gain her medical degree of osteopathic medicine at the University at Buffalo.

Dr. Olsen is residency-trained in peripheral and endovascular surgery, and also certificated in both wound care and non-invasive vascular ultrasound. Dr. Olsen has co-authored nearly 30 peer reviewed publications including book chapters, and has presented at meetings across the United States and abroad. Having more than 14 years of diverse experience, she has returned to the Arizona and is excited to help improve the lives of those suffering from venous and vascular diseases and conditions.

Dr. Olsen is seeing patients at all three Western Vascular Institute locations

Including:

  • Phoenix
  • Mesa
  • Payson

Call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Olsen at (480) 668-5000