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Category: Varicose Veins

Why do I need a vascular surgeon?

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Why do I need a vascular surgeon?

 

Vascular Disease:

If you have been diagnosed with vascular diseases such as peripheral artery disease (PAD), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), varicose veins, aneurysms, or carotid artery disease, a vascular surgeon specializes in the treatment of these conditions.

Circulation Problems:

If you experience symptoms related to poor blood circulation, such as leg pain or cramping during walking or at rest, non-healing wounds or ulcers, or coldness in your extremities, a vascular surgeon can evaluate and provide appropriate treatment options.

Vascular Trauma:

In cases of traumatic injuries that involve blood vessels, such as a severe laceration or damage to arteries or veins, a vascular surgeon can perform surgical procedures to repair and restore blood flow.

Aortic Aneurysm:

If you have an abdominal or thoracic aortic aneurysm, which is a weakened and bulging area in the aorta, the main blood vessel in your body, a vascular surgeon may perform surgery to repair or replace the affected segment to prevent the risk of rupture.

Endovascular Procedures:

Vascular surgeons are trained in minimally invasive endovascular techniques, such as angioplasty, stenting, and embolization, to treat various vascular conditions. These procedures involve using catheters and imaging guidance to access and treat the affected blood vessels from within.

Vascular Access:

If you require long-term dialysis, a vascular surgeon can create and manage vascular access points, such as arteriovenous fistulas or grafts, to allow repeated access to your blood vessels.

With many years of extensive vascular experience, Western Vascular Institute’s providers are able to provide unparalleled diagnosis & management for all venous & vascular diseases as well as exceptional patient care.

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What is Vascular Surgery?

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What is Vascular Surgery?

Vascular surgery is a surgical specialty that deals with diseases of the blood vessels. It is a relatively new specialty, having been founded in the early 1970s. The first residency program was started at the University of Minnesota in 1973.

The specialty of vascular surgery is divided into two main branches: open surgery and endovascular surgery.

Open surgery is the traditional form of surgery, where the surgeon makes a large incision in the patient’s body in order to access the blood vessels. Endovascular surgery is a newer form of surgery that uses tiny instruments and a camera to access the blood vessels through small incisions.

Vascular surgery is a highly specialized field, and there are only a few hundred surgeons in the United States who specialize in it. The majority of vascular surgeons are based in large metropolitan areas, and there are few rural areas that have vascular surgeons.

 Treating a variety of diseases and conditions, including:

Vascular surgery is a life-saving procedure in many cases. For example, an aortic aneurysm is a life-threatening condition that can lead to a ruptured aorta. If the aneurysm is detected early, it can be treated with surgery. It is a highly specialized field, and patients should seek out a vascular surgeon who is experienced in treating the specific condition that they have.

Horse Chestnut extract for veins

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Horse Chestnut extract for veins

Horse chestnut extract, derived from the seeds of the Aesculus hippocastanum tree, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for various health conditions, including venous disorders. It contains a compound called aescin, which is believed to have beneficial effects on veins and blood vessels. Let’s explore the potential benefits of horse chestnut extract for veins.

Improving Venous Circulation:

Horse chestnut extract is commonly used to support healthy venous circulation. It is believed to strengthen the walls of blood vessels and reduce their permeability, potentially improving blood flow and reducing symptoms associated with venous insufficiency.

Relieving Symptoms of Varicose Veins:

Varicose veins occur when veins become enlarged, twisted, and often painful. Horse chestnut extract has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms associated with varicose veins, such as pain, swelling, and heaviness in the legs. It is thought to reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation, which may help relieve discomfort.

Managing Chronic Venous Insufficiency:

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a condition in which the veins have difficulty returning blood from the legs to the heart. Horse chestnut extract has been studied for its potential benefits in managing CVI. It may help reduce leg swelling, pain, and itching associated with the condition, improving overall quality of life.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects:

Horse chestnut extract possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the veins and surrounding tissues. This anti-inflammatory action may contribute to its potential benefits in alleviating symptoms of venous disorders.

Antioxidant Activity:

Horse chestnut extract contains antioxidants that can help protect blood vessels from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. By neutralizing these harmful molecules, horse chestnut extract may help maintain the health and integrity of veins.

While horse chestnut extract has shown promising potential for vein health, it is important to note that scientific research on its efficacy and safety is ongoing. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplementation, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications.

In summary, horse chestnut extract has been traditionally used to support vein health and alleviate symptoms associated with venous disorders. However, more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action and determine its effectiveness. If you are considering using horse chestnut extract for vein-related concerns, consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your specific situation.

 

What are compression stockings?

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What are compression stockings?

Compression stockings, also known as compression socks or support stockings, are specialized garments designed to apply pressure to the legs and improve blood circulation. They are commonly used in the treatment and management of various conditions, including:

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD):

Compression stockings can help improve blood flow and reduce symptoms such as leg pain, cramping, and fatigue in individuals with PAD.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT):

Compression stockings are often recommended to prevent and manage DVT, a condition characterized by blood clot formation in deep veins. They help promote blood circulation, prevent blood pooling, and reduce the risk of clotting.

Varicose Veins:

Compression stockings can alleviate symptoms associated with varicose veins, such as swelling, discomfort, and heaviness in the legs. They help compress the veins, improving circulation and reducing swelling.

Lymphedema:

Compression garments, including stockings, are used to manage lymphedema, a condition characterized by swelling due to the accumulation of lymphatic fluid. The gentle pressure exerted by the stockings helps reduce swelling and maintain proper lymphatic flow.

Post-Surgical Recovery:

After certain surgical procedures, such as vein stripping or vein ablation, compression stockings may be prescribed to aid in the healing process, reduce swelling, and prevent blood clots.

The benefits of compression stockings include:
Improved Blood Circulation:

Compression stockings apply graduated pressure, meaning the pressure is highest at the ankle and gradually decreases up the leg. This compression helps enhance blood flow by aiding the muscles and veins in pumping blood back to the heart.

Reduced Swelling and Discomfort:

By promoting better circulation, compression stockings can alleviate swelling, heaviness, and achiness in the legs.

Prevention of Complications:

Compression stockings can help prevent the formation of blood clots, particularly during long periods of immobility, such as during air travel or bed rest.

Support during Physical Activity:

Athletes and individuals engaged in physical activity may wear compression stockings to improve performance, reduce muscle fatigue, and enhance post-exercise recovery.

When considering compression stockings, it is essential to choose the correct size and compression level based on the specific condition and the advice of a vascular surgeon. They are available in different strengths, lengths, and styles, including knee-high, thigh-high, and full-length stockings. It’s important to follow the instructions for proper usage, including wearing them consistently and correctly to achieve maximum benefit.

If you have any vascular conditions or concerns, consult with a vascular surgeon to determine if compression stockings are suitable for your situation and to receive guidance on the appropriate type and compression level needed to support your vascular health.

Radio-Frequency Ablation for Varicose Veins.

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Radiofrequency closure, also known as radiofrequency ablation, addresses the venous reflex disease that often causes varicose veins. It serves as an alternative to traditional vein stripping, which requires invasive surgical removal of the diseased veins. Instead, radiofrequency ablation uses heat energy to prompt the closure of diseased veins.

The surgeon starts by numbing the area with a topical and local anesthetic. Then, by way of a small incision, he or she passes a catheter or similar tool into the affected vein. The catheter serves as a channel through which the surgeon introduces an electrode.

When the surgeon pulls back on the catheter to expose the end of the fiber or electrode, energy passes into the vein as heat. This heat shrinks the collagen in the vein wall, which in turn causes the vein to shrink and close. The surgeon then removes the catheter and the patient’s body proceeds to heal the closure by rerouting blood to healthy veins.

 

https://www.westernvascular.com/vein-center/varicose-veins/

https://www.medtronic.com/us-en/healthcare-professionals/products/cardiovascular/superficial-vein/closurefast-rfa-system.html

Sclero-Therapy for Spider Veins.

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Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure performed by injecting a saline solution into the varicose vein. This irritation to the vein causes the defective vein to collapse.

The body reroutes the blood supply to bypass the damaged vein, which is eventually reabsorbed into the body.

To begin a typical sclerotherapy procedure, a physician uses a fine needle to inject the salt solution into the vein itself.

Any discomfort felt is most often mild and resolves in less than two minutes, though the full procedure may take up to half an hour.

This may include injection into multiple veins, depending on the location and size of the affected vessel.

Most patients undergo the procedure in an outpatient setting and can drive themselves home afterward.

 

https://www.westernvascular.com/vein-center/spider-veins/

https://vascular.org/patient-resources/vascular-conditions/varicose-veins

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

Varicose Veins

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Varicose Veins are veins that have become enlarged and twisted. They can occur anywhere on the body, but most often appear in the arms and legs. Some cases of varicose veins are solely cosmetic, but often they produce pain and discomfort or lead to other circulatory problems. Possible complications include ulcers near the ankles, bleeding, or blood clots.

In healthy leg veins, tiny valves keep blood from pooling in the lower body. When these veins become stretched with age, the valves fail and blood accumulates.

Our Board-certified vascular surgeons have extensive experience treating varicose veins.

Painful, tired legs? It could be Varicose or Spider Veins!

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 Vascular surgeons are the only specialist focusing
 exclusively on Vein & Artery disorders. 

Do you suffer from:

  • Aching & uncomfortable legs
  • Itching/muscle cramps
  • Swelling in feet & ankles
  • Burning or throbbing
  • Leg heaviness/tiredness
  • Skin discoloration

Treatments

  • Compression stockings
  • Sclerotherapy
  • Radiofrequency ablation
  • Phlebectomy