Varicose Veins: Microphlebectomy Treatment

Microphlebectomy Overview:

Microphlebectomy is an effective, minimally invasive, in-office procedure, that is used to treat varicose veins. This procedure takes about an hour, and no general anesthetic is required. There is very little risk of infection or other complications with this procedure.

Microphlebectomy in Detail:

At Total Vein Care, a microphlebectomy procedure is usually recommended for people who have larger varicose veins. Varicose veins are swollen and enlarged veins that can be painful, bothersome, and even embarrassing. If these veins are left untreated, they can lead to serious health problems. When getting this procedure done, we will mark the veins to be treated, and then numb the skin over the veins. Your doctor will then use a small hook to bloodlessly pull the varicose vein to remove it. (This process will be repeated for all problem veins).

Frequently Asked Questions:

Will I feel any pain during the procedure?

You may feel a slight pulling sensation during the procedure, but you should not feel any pain.

What can I expect during the recovery?

Since this procedure does not involve stitches, you can usually return to work the next day. The incisions are usually closed with a bandage, and the small punctures heal rapidly.

Will I get scarring from this procedure?

There is no scarring. Your leg will go back to being beautiful!

Here is a before and after picture from a microphlebectomy procedure from one of our patients:

*Real patients, real results

Call us to make an appointment or if you have any questions: 225-442-9663

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Varicose Veins: EVLT Treatment

Endovenous Laser Treatment is a minimally invasive, in-office, procedure that uses laser heat to treat varicose veins.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are swollen and enlarged veins that can sometimes be embarrassing, bothersome, or even painful. If these veins are left untreated, they can lead to serious health problems.

The before and after picture shows one of our patient’s varicose veins before the EVLT procedure and after they were treated.

EVLT Overview:

Endovenous Laser Treatment (EVLT) is a minimally invasive, in-office alternative to traditional vein stripping to treat large, bulging varicose veins and their underlying cause, venous reflux. Usually, the treatment takes less than an hour (from 45-60 minutes), and patients will be able to go home about 30-45 minutes after the procedure is finished.  Unlike vein stripping, EVLT only requires local anesthesia. Patients have minimal recovery times following treatment, and the risk of complications is minimal.

EVLT in Detail:

First, your doctor will numb the vein areas to be treated so you will not feel any discomfort during the treatment. During the procedure, the heat from the laser is sent into the varicose vein through a thin, flexible tube (catheter). This, consequently, closes off blood flow in the problem vein. Blood will be rerouted to healthy veins and your body will absorb the now-inactive vein, so you no longer feel or see it.

Recovery:

You will need to wear a compression bandage for several days after the procedure, and compression hose for several weeks. You can go back to normal activities the following day after the procedure, but it is advised to avoid heavy lifting or exercise for a few days after your treatment.

At Total Vein Care, our doctors are experienced, highly trained and board-certified vascular surgeons, who specialize in disorders of the blood vessels. We are genuinely dedicated to your best interests and provide you the most advanced and appropriate vein care.

Call us to make an appointment or if you have any questions: 225-442-9663

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Deep Vein Thrombosis

Overview:

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein, usually in your legs. DVT can be dangerous because it can cause the blood clots to break up and move to your lungs, which will cause a blockage in the flood flow (pulmonary embolism).

DVT can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as your age, blood pressure, medication, and lifestyle. You could have a higher risk of developing DVT if you are 60 years of age or older, have high blood pressure, take birth control pills, or if you have a sedentary lifestyle. When you remain sedentary for too long—if you do not move for a long time— such as after an accident, surgery, or sitting for long periods of time, it can lead to developing blood clots.

Symptoms:

Deep vein thrombosis signs and symptoms can include:  

  • Pain in your leg(s) – can feel like cramping or soreness
  • Swelling of the leg(s)
  • Red or discolored skin on the leg(s)

Sometimes, however, deep vein thrombosis can occur without any noticeable symptoms.

When to see a doctor:

Life threatening complications may occur if DVT is left untreated. Therefore, contact your doctor if you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of deep vein thrombosis.

Your doctor may recommend different treatment options depending on the severity of the condition. Treatment options may include blood thinners, thrombolysis, or surgery.

For any questions about DVT, treatment options, or to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors call 225-442-9663.

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Sclerotherapy- The Perfect Christmas Gift!

Do you have bothersome or embarrassing veins on your legs that you wish they would go away? Well, we have great news! Sclerotherapy is what you’ve been looking for!

What is sclerotherapy?

Sclerotherapy is a highly effective, minimally invasive treatment that we recommend for removing small to medium varicose veins and spider veins. This treatment is a quick, in-office procedure that consists of injecting a special solution into your unwanted veins, which will cause those veins to gradually disappear.

What are the results of sclerotherapy?

Normally, the body absorbs the treated veins within a few weeks! To get a better idea of the results, here is a before and after picture of the treatment from our patient:

The pictures speak for themselves!

Make sure you and your loved ones have their Christmas wishes come true AND also take advantage of our Christmas special going on right now and get 15% off your next sclerotherapy treatment! Valid until December 31st.

Call us at 225-442-9663 for any questions or to schedule an appointment!

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Does leg pain keep you from enjoying the life you love?

Does leg pain keep you from enjoying activities with the kids? Or perhaps just simply any activity at all?

Varicose veins are not only noticeable, but they can also be embarrassing and often painful. If these veins are left untreated, they can lead to serious health problems. But most importantly, they can keep you from living the life you love!

Symptoms –

The most common signs and symptoms of varicose veins include:

  • Burning, itching, or swelling in your legs
  • Tiredness
  • Achy or heavy feeling in your legs
  • Restless pain

If you have varicose veins, spider veins, or persistent leg symptoms such as the ones listed above, you may have venous insufficiency, or vein disease. Venous insufficiency is a progressive disorder that worsens and won’t get better on its own.

Treatment –

For medically significant venous insufficiency, the best treatment plans that are the most advanced, minimally invasive, nonsurgical procedures, include:

  • Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)
  • Sclerotherapy
  • Microphlebectomy
  • VNUS Closure
  • VeinGogh Ohmic Thermolysis

These are far easier than traditional treatment (vein stripping) and result in little or no downtime.

It is important to have your vascular problems resolved by a true vein-care specialist with the training, capabilities, and experience to handle any vein problem and perform minimally invasive, nonsurgical treatments, so that you can get back to living your life in no time!  

At Total Vein Care, our doctors are experienced, highly trained and board-certified vascular surgeons, who specialize in disorders of the blood vessels. We are genuinely dedicated to your best interests, and provide you the most advanced and appropriate vein care.

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Moms and Veins: Protect your legs against vein disease

The first time you saw varicose or spider veins may have been on your mother or your grandmother’s legs. Though men can get them too, women are more susceptible to vein disease. 

 

Are they dangerous?

They are not dangerous but in some women these issues cause discomfort. For most, there are no symptoms other than making you feel self-conscious. They can possibly cause your legs to ache or feel very heavy. These symptoms maybecome exacerbated after long periods of sitting or standing. You can also have throbbing, swelling, and itching. Hormonal fluctuations can also affect symptoms so you may feel them more during certain times like your period or during pregnancy.

 

Where do they come from?

Certain people are more predisposed to vein complications. You have a higher chance of getting them if it runs in your family. A job that requires you to be on your feet for long periods of time can also cause varicose vein issues. Being overweight, having a history of blood clots, tumors, or constipation can all play a role. Hormonal changes during menopause, or puberty, birth control, and hormone replacement can also have an effect.

Pregnancy gives you a high risk of varicose problems because of the added blood flow pumping through your body to support the baby. As you uterus grows, it increases the pressure on your veins potentially causing damage to your veins.

 

Prevention

1. Use sun protection- Using sunscreen will help protect you from cancer-causing sun rays. It can also help keep spider veins at bay- particularly on your face.

2. Take a break- If you stand for long periods at work, make it a point to sit and give your legs a rest periodically. If you sit for a long time at work, do the opposite. Every half hour or so, get up and walk to get your blood moving. If you are unable to stand and walk around, be sure to stretch your leg often. Wearing compression socks can also help protect your legs.

3. Elevate your feet- When you get home and you finally get time to relax, put a pillow under your feet to elevate them. This will take pressure off your feet and legs and get the blood flowing back towards your heart.

4. Do not cross your legs- When you sit with your legs crossed it can impede good blood flow in your legs. This can cause vessel damage and weaken vein walls.

5. Save the stilettos for special occasions. Lower heels and flats keep your blood flowing unrestricted. Also, clothing that is too tight around your midsection can slow blood flow to your legs.

6. During pregnancy- Do not sit or stand for prolonged periods of time. Elevate your feet and wear loose clothing.

7. Take care of yourself- A healthy diet and regular exercise will keep you healthy, keep blood flowing, and prevent obesity.

You can’t always avoid or prevent vein issues particularly if heredity is against you or you are pregnant. However, there are a few things that can help minimize the likelihood you will end up with them. If you get them anyway, treatment options are available. Call today to ask about our free consultation.

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Progress Continues in Stroke Prevention

M. Vince Weaver, MD

Discusses his journey…

Working through the resistance …

And gaining acceptance for technology…

Click here to read entire article.

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Fighting Peripheral Artery Disease: Lifestyle Changes & Treatment

Lifestyle Changes to Avoid PAD
Smoking and diabetes are among the most significant risk factors for developing PAD. Smokers should quit smoking and try to sustain a healthy lifestyle. Management of diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol with medication and diet can help with disease progression and other cardiovascular risks. Regular exercise for those with claudication helps open alternative small vessels to improve oxygen levels. This may improve endurance for walking. Treadmill exercise has been shown to improve cardiovascular function and quality of life. Exercise programs can increase pain-free walking time and walking distance for people with PAD.

Treatment of Peripheral Artery Disease
Certain medications like cilostazol and pentoxifylline have been used to treat symptoms of PAD. These medications have been proven effective for improving some symptoms of PAD. Pain and/or cramping caused by claudication due to peripheral artery disease are among them. Surgery may be needed to bring relief to some patients suffering with PAD. A vascular or endovascular surgeon can perform a surgical technique called revascularization to restore blood flow to the affected arteries. The surgical method depends on the severity of the blockage and other factors. The presence of a non-healing wound or infection could lead to gangrene and possible amputation.
Other operations include:
• Angioplasties for single lesions in large arteries
• Atherectomies for plaque removal
• Vascular bypass grafting to redirect blood flow
• Thrombolysis and thrombectomy to remove blood clots

When to See a Doctor
Call your doctor for an appointment if you have leg pain or any other symptoms of peripheral artery disease. Absent symptoms, screening for PAD is still recommended for people with risk factors like high blood pressure or obesity or those over age 50 with a history of smoking or diabetes. Screening is also encouraged for anyone over age 65. Schedule an appointment with a vascular surgeon at Total Vein Care to screen for PAD. (https://totalveincarelouisiana.com/)

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Peripheral Artery Disease – Catch it Sooner Rather Than Later

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition where blood flow to the limbs is diminished. It’s a common circulatory issue caused by narrowing of the arteries that provide blood to these areas. Cholesterol and fatty deposits can build up over time on the inner walls of the arteries and lead to blockage and reduced blood flow. The arteries in the legs are most commonly affected by PAD. The decreased blood flow causes symptoms such as leg pain and cramps. This is known as claudication. Peripheral artery disease can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious condition called atherosclerosis.

Causes and Risk Factors of Peripheral Artery Disease
A major cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, a disease that also results from narrowed and blocked arteries. Fatty deposits build up on the arterial walls over time and disrupt blood flow. Atherosclerosis can narrow and block arteries in various areas of the body, including the heart, brain, and limbs. Other less common causes of PAD include blood vessel inflammation, limb injuries, or exposure to radiation.

Risk factors:
• Heredity
• Advanced age
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol

Symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease
Almost half of PAD sufferers may have little or no symptoms. The main symptom of PAD is muscle pain when affected areas are in use. This is known as intermittent claudication. Leg pain, specifically in the calf, is the most commonly reported symptom. The reduced blood flow doesn’t produce enough oxygen to meet the demand of muscles in use. Claudication can range from slight discomfort to incapacitating pain. Severe claudication can interfere with the ability to perform simple physical activities like walking. Pain can occur while at rest if the disease progresses. Other symptoms of PAD include skin ulcers, bluish skin, cold skin, poor nail and hair growth in the affected limb, and erectile dysfunction in men. Complications may include stroke, heart attack, and loss of tissue or limb(s) due to injuries or infections.

When to See a Doctor
Call your doctor for an appointment if you have leg pain or any other symptoms of peripheral artery disease. Absent symptoms, screening for PAD is still recommended for people with risk factors like high blood pressure or obesity or those over age 50 with a history of smoking or diabetes. Screening is also encouraged for anyone over age 65. Schedule an appointment with a vascular surgeon at Total Vein Care to screen for PAD. (https://totalveincarelouisiana.com/)

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Microphlebectomy: What Is It?

If you suffer from bulging veins or larger varicose veins, you may be a candidate for microphlebectomy. We perform this procedure in the Total Vein Care office in Baton Rouge. Only local anesthesia is required and there is little-to-no downtime for most people.

What is microphlebectomy?

A minimally invasive procedure, microphlebectomy is performed to remove large varicose veins on or near the surface of the legs. It involves making tiny punctures or incisions — so small that very often, no stitches are required. The varicose veins are pulled through the incisions, and in fact, even large veins can be removed through the tiny incisions used in this technique.

Preparing for microphlebectomy

Before we can determine if this procedure is right for you, you’ll be evaluated by one of our vascular surgeons. This will include a venous ultrasound to determine:

  • If varicose veins are the true cause, or if they are connected to other veins that may need to be treated first
  • If clots in the superficial or deep veins need to be addressed

The steps of microphlebectomy

This procedure typically takes about one hour. Here is what to expect:

  • The veins to be treated are outlined or marked
  • Local anesthesia is injected into the skin
  • Small (2 mm) incisions are made over the treated vein(s)
  • Veins are removed segment by segment
  • Steer-strips are used to close the incisions
  • You will be able to walk after the procedure
  • You should wear compression stockings for three days to one week after surgery

Trusted vein care in Baton Rouge

If large varicose veins or painful, bulging veins are keeping you from the activities you love or from showing your legs, Total Vein Care is here for you.

Our board-certified surgeons have valuable experience in performing microphlebectomy procedures with optimal results. In fact, all state-of-the-art treatments are done in-office to make your vein care as convenient as possible. Let us help you look, feel and live better with a customized treatment plan to solve your vein problems, big or small.

To learn more, call us today at (225) 442-9663 or click here to use our online form.

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