Phone: 813-906-8346 (VEIN)
Phone: 813-906-8346 (VEIN)
Please reach us at 813-906-8346 if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Understanding Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are enlarged blood vessels that have undergone swelling and twisting, displaying a dark blue hue and protruding from the skin like raised tunnels. While they can emerge anywhere in the body, they predominantly develop on the legs and ankles.
This prevalent condition impacts roughly half of Americans aged 50 or older to varying extents. Varicose veins often exhibit a substantial genetic component, with multiple family members commonly affected. Individuals with occupations or lifestyles involving prolonged periods of standing are also at an increased risk of developing varicose veins.
Treating Varicose Veins with Advanced Technology
Diagnosis and severity classification of varicose veins are accomplished through a meticulous physical examination and ultrasound imaging. Wesley Chapel Vascular employs non-invasive color-duplex ultrasound technology, enabling the precise identification of varicose vein sources and the formulation of an accurate treatment plan.
Our cutting-edge approach involves state-of-the-art catheter-based technology to repair varicose veins effectively. This technique seals leaking valves and eliminates varicose veins without resorting to ligation and stripping procedures.
The outpatient procedure, conducted under local anesthesia, typically lasts one hour. Following a brief recovery period, patients are discharged to return home. A compression dressing is recommended for two to three days. Postoperative discomfort is minimal, facilitating immediate ambulation. Compared to traditional ligation and stripping, our patients experience a quicker return to work and full activities.
Understanding Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) refers to the dilation of the principal blood artery in the abdomen, responsible for supplying blood to the intestines, kidneys, liver, and legs.
While aneurysms, or enlarged arteries, can potentially impact arteries throughout the body, they typically occur with greater frequency in the lowest section of the aorta, just above the umbilicus (belly button). In many cases, AAAs are asymptomatic and are discovered incidentally during unrelated CT scan, ultrasound, or MRI examinations.
Detecting and Treating Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)
Weakened arterial walls, often attributed to factors like smoking, hypertension, or a familial predisposition, can lead to the gradual dilation of the aorta over many years. Early detection becomes crucial, potentially saving lives by addressing the condition before a rupture occurs.
Detection
If an AAA is suspected or if screening is requested, we conduct an abdominal ultrasound—a painless procedure that identifies the condition. This allows for timely intervention to repair the damaged artery before a rupture.
Treatment
The chances of surviving elective AAA repair range from 95-98%, depending on a patient's medical condition. Treatment options encompass traditional open surgery or endovascular repair. The decision between the two approaches involves thorough discussions between the patient and the entire medical team. At Wesley Chapel Vascular, our expertise extends to both open and endovascular treatments, ensuring the selection of the best option for each patient based on their anatomy, health status, and personal preferences.
Understanding Aortic Dissection (AD)
Aortic Dissection (AD) occurs when an injury to the innermost layer of the aorta permits blood to flow between the layers of the aortic wall, causing a separation of the layers. This condition typically manifests with a sudden and intense onset of chest or back pain, often described as having a "tearing" quality.
AD is relatively uncommon, estimated to occur at a rate of three cases per 100,000 people annually. It exhibits a higher incidence in males compared to females, with the typical age at diagnosis being 63. Approximately 10% of cases occur before the age of 40.
Detecting and Treating Aortic Dissection
Aortic Dissection (AD) is more prevalent in individuals with a history of high blood pressure, connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome and Ehlers Danlos syndrome, a bicuspid aortic valve, and prior heart surgery. Increased risk factors also include major trauma, smoking, cocaine use, pregnancy, thoracic aortic aneurysm, arterial inflammation, and abnormal lipid levels.
The diagnosis is suspected based on symptoms, and medical imaging—such as computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or ultrasound—is employed to confirm and further evaluate the dissection. The two primary types are Stanford type A, involving the initial part of the aorta, and type B, which does not.
Treatment
Treatment approaches for Aortic Dissection vary based on severity. Complicated dissections necessitate an emergent operation, either endovascular or open, to repair the injury. In cases where complications are absent, blood pressure control becomes the primary treatment. If pain resolves, elective procedures can be planned.
For "uncomplicated" aortic dissections, elective repair is recommended between 14 days to 90 days after the tear occurs. The objective is to cover the aortic tear, restoring normal flow. This repair is crucial as the torn aorta has a tendency to form a large aneurysm over time, posing a high risk of rupture.
Understanding Carotid Artery Disease
Carotid artery disease emerges when fatty deposits (plaques) obstruct the blood vessels supplying blood to the brain and head (carotid arteries). This blockage amplifies the risk of stroke, a critical medical emergency occurring when the blood supply to the brain is either interrupted or significantly reduced.
The progression of carotid artery disease is gradual, and the initial indication may manifest as a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).
In cases of stroke or TIA, the insufficient blood flow to the brain results in oxygen deprivation, making stroke the primary cause of death and the leading contributor to permanent disability in the United States.
Detection of Carotid Blockage or Carotid Artery Disease
In its initial stages, carotid artery disease often remains asymptomatic, and awareness of the condition may only arise when it reaches a critical point, leading to a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). However, proactive screening is available, especially for those with risk factors. Our non-invasive ultrasound procedure can detect carotid artery disease, offering timely intervention.
Treatment of Carotid Blockage or Carotid Artery Disease
The primary objective in addressing carotid artery disease is stroke prevention. Treatment strategies depend on the degree of blockage in the carotid arteries.
Mild to Moderate Blockage:
Severe Blockage or Post-TIA/Stroke:
At Wesley Chapel Vascular, our approach is tailored to each patient's condition, ensuring comprehensive care based on individual health, needs, and risk factors.
Understanding Peripheral Arterial Disease
Claudication, a symptom Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), describes a condition marked by difficulties in walking or experiencing pain, discomfort, numbness, or fatigue in the legs during walking or standing, alleviated by rest. The intensity of claudication pain can vary from mild to severe.
While the most prevalent manifestation occurs in the calves, claudication can also affect the feet, thighs, hips, buttocks, or arms.
Those with intermittent claudication may be undiagnosed diabetics, and contributing factors include prolonged periods of sitting without adequate breaks, coupled with a general lack of walking or exercise stimulating the legs. Recognizing and addressing these underlying causes is essential for effective management.
Detecting and Treating Claudication
Claudication, manifested as discomfort or pain in the legs during walking or standing, can be quantified by the distance walked before symptoms arise. Described in terms of city street blocks, "one-block claudication" occurs after walking one block, while "two-block claudication" surfaces after two blocks. Noninvasive vascular testing, primarily ultrasound, aids in understanding the condition and discussing potential treatment options.
Treatment
1. Lifestyle Modification:
2. Exercise Therapy:
3. Drug Treatment:
4. Advanced Imaging:
5. Surgical Intervention:
Understanding Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Deep vein thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, typically occurring in the legs. Manifestations may encompass pain, swelling, redness, or warmth in the affected area; however, these symptoms are not always present in this potentially life-threatening condition. Complications may arise, including pulmonary embolism—resulting from the detachment of a clot that travels to the lungs—and post-thrombotic syndrome.
Diverse risk factors contribute to the development of DVT, encompassing both acquired and inherited factors. Common conditions such as obesity, advanced age, certain cancers, inactivity, trauma, pregnancy, and specific vitamin deficiencies increase susceptibility.
Suspected cases of DVT are evaluated using clinical prediction rules, like the Wells score. Additionally, a D-dimer test may be employed to aid in excluding the diagnosis or indicating the necessity for further testing. Early detection and management are crucial to mitigate the risks associated with DVT.
Symptoms and Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Common signs and symptoms of DVT encompass pain or tenderness, swelling, warmth, redness or discoloration, and distention of surface veins. However, approximately half of individuals with this condition may exhibit no symptoms. While signs and symptoms alone may not be specific for a diagnosis, their consideration alongside known risk factors aids in determining the likelihood of DVT. In most suspected cases, thorough evaluation, typically involving ultrasound, helps rule out DVT, with symptoms often attributed to other causes. Wesley Chapel Vascular is adept at successfully diagnosing the condition based on the presented symptoms.
Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
1. Anticoagulation:
2. Thrombolysis:
Understanding Diabetic Foot Syndrome
A diabetic foot refers to any foot pathology directly stemming from diabetes mellitus or its chronic complications. The collective presence of characteristic diabetic foot pathologies, including infection, diabetic foot ulcers, and neuropathic osteoarthropathy, is termed diabetic foot syndrome.
Diabetic neuropathy, a consequence of peripheral nerve dysfunction in diabetes, diminishes pain perception, leading to delayed detection of minor injuries. Individuals with diabetes face an increased risk of developing diabetic foot ulcers, with research indicating a lifetime incidence of approximately 15%, potentially rising to 25%.
Of significant concern, foot infection stands as the leading cause of non-traumatic amputations in individuals with diabetes, necessitating immediate attention and intervention to mitigate the risk of such severe outcomes. Early and comprehensive management is crucial in addressing diabetic foot syndrome and preventing associated complications.
Symptoms and Treatment of Diabetic Foot
Evaluation by Wesley Chapel Vascular is essential for diabetic patients experiencing non-healing ulcers or gangrene. Minimally invasive, endovascular techniques may occasionally enhance circulation, although the significant atherosclerosis often necessitates a surgical approach.
Treatment of Diabetic Foot
Wesley Chapel Vascular employs a comprehensive approach to ensure effective and tailored management of diabetic foot complications.
Understanding Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease, is characterized by unpleasant sensations in the legs, accompanied by an irresistible urge to move them.
Symptoms typically arise in the late afternoon or evening, intensifying at night during periods of rest, such as sitting or lying in bed. Prolonged periods of inactivity, especially when sitting for extended durations, can trigger symptoms. The increased severity of symptoms at night may lead to difficulty falling asleep or returning to sleep after waking up. While movement, such as walking, often alleviates discomfort temporarily, sensations tend to recur once movement ceases. RLS is categorized both as a sleep disorder, given its association with rest and sleep attempts, and a movement disorder, as individuals feel compelled to move their legs to find relief from symptoms.
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) Treatment at Wesley Chapel Vascular
Wesley Chapel Vascular specializes in the treatment of RLS, offering solutions to enhance your comfort and improve your sleep.
Consider a Screening:
Treatment Approaches for Restless Leg Syndrome:
Individualized Care:
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