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Tag: Carotid artery disease

Carotid Endarterectomy

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Carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing plaque buildup from the carotid arteries, which are located in the neck and supply blood to the brain. This blog post aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of carotid endarterectomy, including its purpose, procedure, and why you might need one.

What is Carotid Artery Disease?

Before delving into carotid endarterectomy, it’s essential to grasp the concept of carotid artery disease. Over time, the carotid arteries can become narrowed due to the accumulation of fatty deposits called plaques. This condition, known as atherosclerosis, restricts blood flow to the brain, potentially leading to a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), often referred to as a mini-stroke.

Purpose of Carotid Endarterectomy:

Carotid endarterectomy aims to reduce the risk of stroke by removing the plaque buildup from the carotid arteries. By restoring normal blood flow, the procedure helps prevent the development of vascular surgeon in the or.a full-blown stroke or TIA.

Indications for Carotid Endarterectomy:

Significant carotid artery narrowing: Typically, a stenosis of 70% or more is considered significant, but the decision to undergo surgery depends on several factors, including your overall health and the presence of symptoms.
Experienced a recent TIA or minor stroke: If you’ve had a transient ischemic attack or a minor stroke, carotid endarterectomy may be recommended to prevent further, more severe strokes.
Asymptomatic with high-grade stenosis: In some cases, carotid endarterectomy may be considered for individuals without symptoms but with high-grade carotid stenosis (greater than 80%) due to the increased risk of future strokes.

The Carotid Endarterectomy Procedure:

Here’s a general overview of what you can expect during a carotid endarterectomy procedure:

Anesthesia: You will be given either general anesthesia (where you’re asleep) or local anesthesia (where only the neck is numbed).

Incision: A small incision is made in the neck over the affected carotid artery.

Artery Access: The vascular surgeon carefully opens the carotid artery to access the plaque inside.

Plaque Removal: The plaque is removed from the artery, aiming to restore normal blood flow.

Closure: The artery is then closed, and the incision in the neck is stitched or stapled.

Recovery: After the procedure, you will be closely monitored in the hospital for a day or two before being discharged. The recovery period may vary, but most individuals can resume their normal activities within a few weeks.

Carotid endarterectomy is a well-established procedure aimed at reducing the risk of stroke in individuals with significant carotid artery disease. By removing plaque buildup from the carotid arteries, the procedure helps restore normal blood flow to the brain, potentially preventing future strokes. If you’ve been recommended to undergo carotid endarterectomy, it’s crucial to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your healthcare provider. Remember, the decision to undergo the procedure should be made based on a careful assessment of your individual medical condition and the risks and benefits involved.

Why should patients focus on Peripheral Vascular Disease?

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Why should patients focus on Peripheral Vascular Disease?

 

Beyond the Heart:

Why Patients Should Focus on Peripheral Vascular Disease. When it comes to cardiovascular health, heart disease often takes the spotlight. However, there is another crucial condition that deserves our attention: Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD). While heart disease affects the arteries supplying blood to the heart, PVD affects the arteries outside the heart, particularly those that supply blood to the limbs. It’s important for patients to understand the significance of PVD and why it should be on their radar alongside heart disease. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why patients should focus on PVD in addition to heart disease.

Prevalence and Risk Factors:

PVD is more common than many people realize. It affects millions of individuals worldwide, particularly those over the age of 50. The risk factors for PVD overlap with those of heart disease, including smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. By focusing on PVD, patients can address these risk factors and make positive changes to improve their overall vascular health.

Impact on Quality of Life:

Peripheral Vascular Disease can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life. The reduced blood flow to the limbs can cause symptoms such as leg pain, cramping, numbness, and weakness. These symptoms can make it difficult to walk, engage in physical activities, and carry out daily tasks. By addressing PVD, patients can seek appropriate treatment to alleviate these symptoms and regain their mobility and independence.

Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Events:

PVD is not an isolated condition. It is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes. The same underlying process of atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque in the arteries, occurs in both PVD and heart disease. By managing PVD and its risk factors, patients can potentially reduce their overall cardiovascular risk and improve their long-term health outcomes.

Early Detection and Prevention:

Detecting PVD at an early stage is crucial for effective management. Unfortunately, PVD often goes undiagnosed or overlooked due to its subtle symptoms. However, routine screenings and awareness can lead to early detection and intervention. By focusing on PVD, patients can work closely with their healthcare providers to identify the condition early, initiate appropriate treatments, and prevent its progression.

Holistic Approach to Vascular Health:

Taking a comprehensive approach to vascular health means addressing both heart disease and PVD. By understanding the connections between the two and recognizing the importance of overall vascular wellness, patients can adopt a proactive mindset. This includes making lifestyle modifications, such as quitting smoking, adopting a heart-healthy diet, managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and engaging in regular physical activity. It’s about viewing the body’s entire vascular system as interconnected and deserves equal attention.

Peripheral Vascular Disease should not be overlooked or overshadowed by heart disease. By focusing on PVD alongside heart health, patients can proactively manage their vascular well-being, improve their quality of life, and reduce their risk of cardiovascular events. Awareness, early detection, and a comprehensive approach to vascular health are essential for optimal long-term outcomes. Remember, your limbs deserve the same level of care as your heart. Take action today for a healthier vascular future.

 

PAD Checklist

References:

Society for Vascular Surgery: Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Western Vascular Institute: What Is Peripheral Arterial Disease?
Mayo Clinic: Peripheral artery disease (PAD)

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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Stroke Awareness & Prevention

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Stroke Awareness & Prevention

 

Introduction:

A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients. This can cause brain cells to die, leading to serious and potentially life-threatening consequences. In this blog post, we will explore the causes, symptoms, types, and treatment options available for stroke.

Causes:

Stroke can be caused by a variety of factors, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, and heart disease. Other risk factors include age, family history, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. Some strokes occur spontaneously without any apparent cause, while others are the result of a specific event, such as a blood clot or bleeding in the brain.

Symptoms:

The symptoms of stroke can vary depending on the type of stroke and which part of the brain is affected. Some of the most common symptoms include sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body; sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech; sudden vision loss in one or both eyes; sudden dizziness, loss of balance or coordination; and sudden severe headache with no known cause.

Types:

There are two main types of stroke: ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke. Ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot or plaque buildup in an artery blocks blood flow to the brain. Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing bleeding in the brain. A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a mini-stroke that occurs when blood flow to the brain is temporarily interrupted. TIAs usually last only a few minutes and do not cause permanent brain damage, but they are a warning sign of a possible future stroke.

Treatment:

A stroke is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is crucial to minimize brain damage and prevent further complications. Treatment options depend on the type of stroke and may include medications to dissolve blood clots or lower blood pressure, surgery to remove blood clots or repair a ruptured blood vessel, and rehabilitation to regain lost functions and prevent future strokes.

Prevention:

Preventing stroke involves making lifestyle changes to reduce risk factors, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and managing conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Regular checkups with a healthcare provider can also help detect and manage risk factors before they lead to a stroke.

Conclusion:

A stroke is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. By understanding the causes, symptoms, types, and treatment options available for stroke, you can take steps to prevent stroke and seek prompt treatment if you or someone you know experiences a stroke. With prompt medical attention and appropriate treatment, many people are able to recover from stroke and regain lost functions, highlighting the importance of awareness and education about this medical condition.

Diabetes and Vascular Disease

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Diabetes and Vascular Disease: Understanding the Connection and Taking Control

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While most individuals are aware of the impact of diabetes on blood sugar control, many may not fully understand the profound effect it can have on the vascular system. Diabetes significantly increases the risk of developing various vascular diseases, emphasizing the importance of managing the condition effectively. Let’s delve into the connection between diabetes and vascular disease and explore strategies to minimize its impact.

Understanding the Link:

Diabetes is characterized by elevated blood glucose levels, which can damage blood vessels over time. The persistently high levels of glucose in the bloodstream can lead to the accumulation of fatty deposits in the vessel walls, causing a condition called atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a significant contributor to various vascular diseases, including:

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD):

Diabetes increases the risk of developing PAD, which affects the blood vessels supplying the legs and feet. Reduced blood flow to the lower extremities can result in pain, slow wound healing, and an increased risk of infections and amputations.

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD):

Individuals with diabetes are more prone to CAD, a condition that affects the blood vessels supplying the heart. Narrowed or blocked arteries can lead to chest pain (angina), heart attacks, and other cardiovascular complications.

Stroke:

Diabetes raises the risk of stroke by accelerating the development of atherosclerosis in the arteries supplying the brain. A clot or rupture in these arteries can result in a stroke, causing lasting damage or even death.

Diabetic Retinopathy:

The blood vessels in the retina can be damaged by diabetes, leading to diabetic retinopathy. This condition can cause vision loss or even blindness if left untreated.

Diabetic Nephropathy:

High blood glucose levels can impair the kidneys’ ability to filter waste products, leading to diabetic nephropathy. It is a progressive kidney disease that can eventually result in kidney failure.

Managing Diabetes and Vascular Disease:

While the connection between diabetes and vascular disease may seem daunting, it’s important to remember that taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the risks. Here are some strategies to manage diabetes and minimize the impact on the vascular system:

Maintain Blood Sugar Levels:

Consistently monitoring and managing blood sugar levels through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and appropriate medication or insulin therapy is crucial. Keeping blood glucose within target ranges helps minimize damage to blood vessels.

Control Blood Pressure and Cholesterol:

High blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels further contribute to vascular disease. Regular monitoring and effective management of these factors through lifestyle modifications and medications are essential.

Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle:

Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, to improve circulation and maintain a healthy weight. Follow a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats while limiting sugary and processed foods.

Quit Smoking:

Smoking damages blood vessels and significantly increases the risk of vascular disease. Quitting smoking is one of the most beneficial steps individuals with diabetes can take to protect their vascular health.

Regular Check-ups:

Maintain regular check-ups with healthcare professionals to monitor blood sugar control, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall vascular health. Early detection and intervention can prevent or minimize the progression of vascular diseases.

Diabetes and vascular disease are intricately linked, underscoring the importance of proactive management. By effectively managing blood sugar levels, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and seeking regular medical care, individuals with diabetes can significantly reduce their risk of developing or worsening vascular disease. Empower yourself with knowledge, take control of your diabetes, and prioritize your vascular health for a better quality of life.

 

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/

What Causes A Stroke?

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What Causes A Stroke?

 

Type of Stroke:

Ischemic stroke – occurs when blood vessel blockage prevents blood flow to the brain due to a plaque build-up in the carotid arteries.

Hemorrhagic stroke – occurs when the vessel ruptures inside of the brain and bleeds.

Transient Ischemic stroke or TIA – is a temporary blockage or mini-stroke which can cause permanent damage and are a sign of more severe stroke in the future.

Like Peripheral Arterial/Vascular Disease, Carotid Artery Disease is a narrowed blood flow through the vessel. This narrowing or blocked vessel becomes occluded by fatty deposits of plaque built up along the vessel wall leading to atherosclerotic disease. The Carotid artery is the primary source of blood to your brain. Therefore, a narrowing or blockage in the carotid artery is a serious complication and requires thorough and appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Stroke Symptoms:

Many people with Carotid Artery Disease do not experience symptoms even with quite a bit of arterial blockage. Generally, this condition is found after the patient experiences a stroke or by a routine patient examination.

Stroke Causes:

Generally, Carotid Artery Disease is caused by atherosclerosis, where a build-up of plaque in the arteries reduces the flow of blood or blocks the flow entirely. This lack of blood flow and reduced oxygen supply to the brain can lead to stroke.

Stroke Risk Factors include:

Sedentary lifestyle, Overweight obesity, Diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, Family history, high fat diet, and age above 75 are all factors.

Stroke Diagnosis:

Diagnosis of Carotid Artery Disease is generally diagnosed through a physical examination and medical history. Your physician will also most likely be looking for a (bruit) swooshing sound in the carotid artery that is indicative of a narrowed artery. A Carotid Artery duplex ultrasound scan will also be performed to assess the flow of blood through the artery as well as the pressure.

Stroke Treatments:

The reason for the treatment of carotid artery disease is to reduce or mitigate the possibility of stroke.

For mild blockage:

Lifestyle changes such as eating a healthier diet, reducing salt intake, exercising regularly, losing weight, and quitting smoking are all ways that patients themselves can manage the disease and reduce the chance of blockage and stroke.

Medication management:

Medications may be given to lower the amount of cholesterol in the blood and lower your blood pressure. Additionally, blood thinner medications may be given to prevent blood clots.

Surgical intervention for stroke prevention:

Carotid endarterectomy – generally performed when there is a blockage of 50% or above accompanied by symptoms such as a stroke.

TCAR – Western Vascular Institute is pioneering the use of a breakthrough technology called TransCarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) to treat patients with carotid artery disease who are at risk for open surgery. While any repair of the carotid artery carries some risk of causing a stroke because of the repair itself, TCAR was designed to help minimize that risk by keeping potential stroke-causing fragments away from the brain.

Carotid angioplasty/stenting – This procedure is performed to treat narrowed or occluded carotid arteries. In this procedure, the Vascular Surgeon inserts a wire through the groin and guided via X-ray imaging to the carotid artery. Once there, the balloon is placed to expand the narrowed section, and a stent is left in place afterward to maintain the vessel diameter and allow the blood to flow through the artery.

 

What is Atherosclerosis?

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Atherosclerosis – is a disease process that leads to the hardening or clogging of arteries. The build-up over time of substances such as fat, cholesterol, & calcium, collectively called plaque, narrows the artery and restricts the amount of blood able to pass through the arteries, and provides oxygen-rich blood to the body. This stenosis or narrowing of the artery can lead to serious problems such as stroke, amputation, heart attack, and death.

 

What is Carotid Artery Disease?

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What is Carotid Artery Disease? Dr. Dawn Olsen Vascular Surgeon and Kailin George physician liaison discuss the signs, symptoms, causes, & treatments of carotid artery disease. Additionally, as seen below are some photos taken from a recent TCAR or Trans Carotid Artery Revascularization procedure performed by Dr. Dawn Olsen on a patient in the hospital. It can be clearly recognized where the carotid artery had become nearly occluded prior to the procedure and post-procedure including stenting the artery had become nice and open allowing for optimal blood flow to the brain. Also of note is the photo where plaque filtered out through the TCAR device can be seen in abundance.