What is Carotid stenting?
It is a procedure where your surgeon inserts a slender, metal-mesh tube, called a stent, which expands inside your carotid artery to increase blood flow in areas blocked my plaque. Although carotid stenting opens your artery and keeps blood flowing, it does not stop plaque from building up. To prevent hardening of the arteries you […]
What is an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm? (AAA)
The abdominal aorta is the portion of the aorta that carries blood flow to the abdomen, pelvis, and legs. Sometimes the walls of this part of the aorta weaken and bulge in one area. If the Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm becomes large or ruptures, surgery is necessary. The tests needed to determine an AAA is a […]
What is Angioplasty?
Under an X-ray guidance a catheter with a small balloon at one end is advanced through your artery to the area that is blocked. When the balloon reaches the blockage it is inflated. This compresses the plaque against the arterial wall and widens the passageway for blood flow.
What tests can be done to find the cause of my leg pain?
A thorough medical history and physical exam will determine if further tests are needed. An ultrasound of your legs or other testing may be indicated.
How can I prevent Circulatory problems?
Eat a diet low in fat and salt and start a daily exercise program that includes walking (as recommended by your physician) keep diabetes under control.
What is Bypass surgery?
Bypass surgery is a way to create a new pathway through which blood can flow. A vein or synthetic graft is surgically attached to the artery above and below the area of obstruction. This creates a route around the blockage and improves circulation to your legs and feet.
What are some of my treatment options?
For some, changes in diet and exercise habits may be enough to slow down the progression of Atherosclerosis and reduce symptoms. Others may have blockages severe enough to warrant intervention such as Balloon Angioplasty or Bypass surgery.
What causes blockage in my arteries?
The most common cause is Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) a gradual build up of fatty deposits (plaque) on the insides of the arteries.
What is Claudication?
Claudication is the term used to describe pain in the leg muscles when you walk. This may be caused by a decrease in blood flow to the legs, most often the result of Arterial Blockage.
How can I tell if I have circulatory problems in my legs?
If you have cramping in your leg muscles when you walk and the cramping goes away when you rest you may be exhibiting symptoms of intermittent Claudication.