21, 4, 2014

Before and After Photos: Spider Vein Treatment

2021-11-04T00:05:03-07:00

This patient recently asked us to post his ‘before and after photos of his spider veins on the inner ankle (medial malleolus) following treatment here at La Jolla Vein Care.  He is a 62-year-old gentleman whose wife found the appearance of these unsightly veins a nuisance and they also caused itching. As a result, he wanted them to ‘disappear’ before summer. Four weeks after his second treatment session,  (8 weeks total) most of these diseased blue and red dilated vessels had disappeared.  He was treated with two sessions of liquid sclerotherapy using Asclera pharmaceutical grade solution. He wore his compression stockings the entire 8 weeks.

vein pictures

Before and after spider vein photos at la jolla vein care.

Sclerotherapy is used to treat the small spider veins on the legs. Only a trained physician or RN/PA should administer sclerotherapy injections. Sclerotherapy usually requires more than one treatment session for best results and may take several weeks to see optimal results. The national average is 3-5 treatment sessions. A different type of sclerotherapy, called foam sclerotherapy is used to treat larger blue, reticular veins, and varicose veins. This should be done under ultrasound guidance and is performed by a Medical Doctor. Read more about sclerotherapy and ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy at La Jolla Vein Care.com  or click here to see more of La Jolla Vein Cares before and after photos.

Before and After Photos: Spider Vein Treatment2021-11-04T00:05:03-07:00

Does Insurance Cover Varicose Vein Removal?

2014-04-17T15:48:24-07:00

Vein procedures are generally a covered benefit by most insurance types (including Medicare) if they are considered medically necessary. Medical necessity requirements varies by the individual policy, but in general the varicose veins must cause symptoms such as leg pain, heaviness, fatigue, aching, restless legs, swelling or skin changes such as darkening of the skin around the ankles. Sometimes varicose veins can cause  complications such as phlebitis, bleeding, ulceration or skin changes; these are considered medical conditions. If varicose veins do not cause symptoms, they are considered to be a cosmetic issue in the eyes of insurance.

An ultrasound examination is necessary to provide an overall assessment of the severity of the vein condition. This is a diagnostic study and usually covered by insurance.

In most cases, insurance companies require that conservative measures have been tried for several weeks. Conservative measures include compression stockings, leg elevation, exercise, weight loss or maintaining a healthy weight, NSAIDS or other medication and hot/cold packs.  Many insurance types REQUIRE 6 to 12 weeks of wearing medical grade compression stockings prior to being approved for treatment.

Sometimes, flexible spending accounts can be used to pay for or may reimburse for compression stockings, varicose veins and spider vein treatments.

For more insurance information and questions, email info@ljvascular.com

Does Insurance Cover Varicose Vein Removal?2014-04-17T15:48:24-07:00

La Jolla Vein Care Chosen To Participate in Compression Trial

2021-11-04T13:15:55-07:00
La Jolla Vein Care Participates in ACTitouch™ Adaptive Compression Therapy Trial
compression pump

La Jolla Vein Care participates in compression therapy trial

Selected patients at La Jolla Vein Care will be offered to participate in the ACTitouch compression trial.  Compression therapy is used for the treatment and prevention of vein disorders in the form of compression garments like compression socks and stockings, multi-layer wrappings, gel paste boots or devices such as lymphatic pumps. The ACTitouch is a new compression device designed for ease of use and comfort.  The ACTitouch™ Adaptive Compression Therapy system combines two proven therapies—intermittent pneumatic compression and sustained gradient compression—in one easy-to-wear device. It is designed to mimic the action of the calf muscle pump through the application of optimal gradient pressures.  It is lightweight and compact, so it may give you the freedom to stay active while helping you reduce edema and heal venous leg ulcers. Because it is easy to use, the ACTitouch system may help promote greater patient compliance.  The study will assess whether or not patients who are unable to wear compression garments are more compliant with using the ACTitouch system because it is easier to use.   This device may offer effective daily at-home treatment of venous insufficiency for those who cannot use other types of compression.

 

 

 

La Jolla Vein Care Chosen To Participate in Compression Trial2021-11-04T13:15:55-07:00

Non-surgical Varicose Vein Removal

2021-11-04T13:10:44-07:00

Fortunately, Vein stripping surgery is a thing of the past. Modern varicose vein treatments are minimally-invasive with little pain or downtime.  There are different non-surgical treatment options offered at La Jolla Vein Care. The advantages of modern non-surgical treatments are that return to normal activities is almost immediate, there is little pain or bruising and there are no scars! The different non-surgical treatments that are used to eliminate varicose veins at La Jolla Vein Care include:

Before and After Varicose Vein Treatment

This young La Jolla Vein Care patient’s varicose veins were a result of an incompetent great saphenous vein. As a result, her treatment included radiofrequency closure of the great saphenous vein with foam sclerotherapy used to treat the surface bulging varicose veins.

Before and After Varicose Vein Treatment

This is another before and after picture of the same patient whose bulging varicose veins were removed without surgery at La Jolla Vein Care, utilizing radiofrequency and foam sclerotherapy treatments.

1) foam sclerotherapy, which uses an injection of a solution to collapse the vein, 2) radiofrequency ablation, which uses radiofrequency energy to heat and collapse the vein, 3) clarified or mechanochemical ablation which utilizes a small wire that spins while delivering a liquid solution to the vein and 4) microphlebectomy, which uses tiny incisions to remove the veins. More information can be found about each treatment type on our website.  The best treatment type depends on the size and locations of the veins affected and the patient preference.   Many times, a combination of treatments will be recommended.

 

Non-surgical Varicose Vein Removal2021-11-04T13:10:44-07:00

LJVC Welcomes Hilary Black, RN

2014-04-04T23:36:31-07:00
Hilary-RN

Hilary is a Registered Nurse who treats cosmetic spider vein conditions at La Jolla Vein Care’s Cosmetic Sclerotherapy Clinic.

LJVC welcomes Hilary Black, RN! Hilary has worked with LJVC for a few months now in our cosmetic spider vein clinic, helping patients get rid of unsightly spider veins on the legs.  Hilary also continues to work with Dr. Sadrian, plastic surgeon.  She  received her Bachelor of Science in Business from U.S.C. in Los Angeles prior to graduating from Maric College of Nursing in San Diego.  Hilary worked on the cardiac care (telemetry) unit immediately after graduating from nursing school before she joined the aesthetic world. Since then she has worked for over 12 years in the aesthetic arena.   Her experience includes the use of many state of the art lasers and injectibles, including those for vein treatment.   She has worked with and continues to work beside surgeons to provide specialized aesthetic treatment plans for her patients.  She has performed thousands of procedures and strives to provide a beautiful and lasting result for each patient.Hilary lives in Carmel Valley and enjoys spending time with her niece and nephews, shopping, reading, traveling and going out with friends.

To schedule an appointment with Hilary in our cosmetic spider vein clinic, please call 858-550-0330. Summer’s around the corner, and leg vein conditions  may take more than one treatment and several weeks-months for best results.

LJVC Welcomes Hilary Black, RN2014-04-04T23:36:31-07:00

Meet La Jolla Vein Care’s Dr. Fronek, Vein Specialist

2014-04-04T01:01:22-07:00

Helane Fronek MD, FACP, FACPh is one of La Jolla Vein Care’s esteemed board certified vein specialist.  Dr. Fronek _NOR1964entered the field of phlebology in 1985 and has been an integral part of the development of this new medical specialty. As the Director of the Varicose Vein Clinic at Scripps Clinic, she provided cutting edge treatment for the entire spectrum of superficial venous disorders and conducted research on venous leg ulceration, compression therapy, and emerging therapies for varicose veins. Dr. Fronek is a past president of the American College of Phlebology, the largest medical organization devoted to vein care. She is a respected speaker and educator in all aspects of diagnosis and treatment for venous disease and communication in the medical arena.

Dr. Fronek was the first recipient of the American College of Phlebology’s prestigious Leadership Award. In 2011, Dr. Fronek was honored for her contribution to the field of phlebology and named an honorary member of the ACP. This award is given to one leader in the field, amongst national and international members.

Board-certified in both Internal Medicine and Phlebology, she is also Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine at UC-San Diego School of Medicine, where she teaches medical students the practice of physical examination and the art of medicine. Dr. Fronek has dedicated her career to providing technically excellent and compassionate care to her patients and to inspiring and teaching the next generation of phlebologists. Dr. Fronek is well known for authoring, ‘The Fundamentals of Phlebology’ which is a medical textbook used by most Phlebologists entering the field.

Dr. Fronek is accepting new patients. To make an appointment with Dr. Fronek, call 858-550-0330.

 

Meet La Jolla Vein Care’s Dr. Fronek, Vein Specialist2014-04-04T01:01:22-07:00

Meet Dr.Bunke, La Jolla Vein Care Specialist

2014-04-03T00:35:56-07:00

Dr. Nisha Bunke

Dr. Nisha Bunke

Dr. Nisha Bunke

Dr. Nisha Bunke Paquette, MD, FACPh is one of La Jolla Vein Care’s highly trained board-certified venous disease specialist.  Dr. Bunke specializes in highly advanced and minimally invasive outpatient procedures for treating a wide spectrum of venous conditions. Dr. Bunke  is one of a few southern California physicians board-certified and fellowship trained in Venous and Lymphatic Medicine. She was the first physician in the United States to complete fellowship training supported by the American College of Phebology and was mentored by world renowned vascular surgeon, Dr. John Bergan. Presently, she sees patients at La Jolla Vein Care, San Diego County’s largest dedicated vein center.  She is also a Volunteer Clinical Instructor of Surgery at the University of California San Diego (UCSD) School of Medicine, member of the Scripps Ximed Medical Group and Veteran’s (VA) Medical Center. For five years, Dr. Bunke  has run the vein clinics at the VA Medical Center, providing vein care for our veterans. From 2010 until 2012, she also directed UCSD’s Vein Clinic.

Dr. Bunke is a physician and scientist, actively leading clinical research studies. In 2009, Dr. Bunke  was awarded the Internationale Union of Phlebologie Research Fellowship and the Best Young Presenter Award in Monaco. Collectively, Dr. Bunke  and Dr. Bergan were awarded the 2008 JOBST Research Award for the Advancement of Phlebology for their research on Inflammatory Bio-Markers of Venous Insufficiency. Moreover, Dr. Bunke-Paquette is a member of The Clinical and Translational Research Institute (CTRI) of the University of California San Diego (UCSD), the American Medical Association (AMA), San Diego County Medical Society, Society for Vascular Medicine, American College of Phlebology (ACP), American Venous Forum (AVF) and the Society for Vascular Ultrasound (SVU).  She has published chapters in several medical textbooks, academic journals and most recently co-edited the second edition of the Vein Book, along with John Bergan.

To make an appointment to see Dr. Bunke, call 858-550-0330. 065_NOR2320

 

Meet Dr.Bunke, La Jolla Vein Care Specialist2014-04-03T00:35:56-07:00

26, 3, 2014

Am I Too Old? Varicose Vein Treatment at Any Age

2021-11-04T19:02:17-07:00

We’re often asked, ‘Am I too old to treat my varicose veins?’  The answer is no. Since modern varicose vein treatments are largely non-surgical, there are appropriate treatment options for those of any age. While varicose veins are more common with each decade of life, they can appear on young teenagers or at any time in older adults.    For active older adults, addressing varicose vein conditions is even more important to maintain healthy legs.    Otherwise, symptoms of leg heaviness, fatigue, swelling and pain can slow you down.  There are other complications of untreated varicose veins such as superficial thrombophlebitis, varicose vein rupture and leg ulceration, in severe cases.  There are a variety of minimally invasive treatment options for varicose veins, and depending on the individual preference, severity of the condition and the veins affected will help you and your doctor determine the best treatment course.

This is a 90-year-old female who wanted her varicose veins treated because they were bothersome to her when she played tennis and she didn’t like the way they look. These varicose veins were treated with painless injections, given at two treatment sessions. This is called foam sclerotherapy treatment of varicose veins.
The after picture is at one month following the varicose vein injections (foam sclerotherapy). She tolerated the treatment well and she was able to return to normal activities right away, with the main restriction being wearing compression stockings for several weeks.

 

Am I Too Old? Varicose Vein Treatment at Any Age2021-11-04T19:02:17-07:00

What is a Venous Insufficiency / Duplex Ultrasound Test?

2021-11-04T00:54:25-07:00

The Duplex Ultrasound examination, also called a venous insufficiency study allows us to visualize the blood vessels that are not visible to the naked eye, even blood vessels that are deep within the muscles.  The ultrasound examination is used to both identify the veins that have faulty valves and to map the anatomy of the veins, creating a ‘road map.’  This is necessary to make an accurate assessment of the cause and extent of the varicose veins, as well as to formulate the best treatment plan.  This should be done for any individual being evaluated for varicose veins, leg swelling, patients who have failed prior treatment, patients who are symptomatic and in some patients with certain anatomic patterns of spider veins.

Duplex ultrasound uses sound waves to get images of your blood vessels.  It also helps determine how fast blood moves through the vessels.

Darkening of skin, and itchiness are a sign of chronic venous insufficiency or venous reflux disease

Darkening of skin, and itchiness are a sign of chronic venous insufficiency or venous reflux disease

At La Jolla Vein Care, the venous duplex study will be performed by one of our registered vascular technologists, who have specialized training in the science of vascular sonography (RVT). It is performed in the standing position, which is important in obtaining an accurate study result.  This examination takes approximately 45-60 minutes. Following the study, the doctor will personally discuss the results with our patients to ensure a complete understanding of the ultrasound findings.  Insurance typically covers this type of diagnostic study.

 

What is a Venous Insufficiency / Duplex Ultrasound Test?2021-11-04T00:54:25-07:00

Spider Vein Sclerotherapy: Before & After Photos

2021-11-04T19:10:42-07:00

Before and after pictures of spider veins that were treated with sclerotherapy.

Before and after pictures of spider veins that were treated with sclerotherapy. This patient had spider veins behind the knees, which is a common location for spider veins and larger blue, ‘reticular veins.’

Spider vein patient treated at La Jolla Vein Care with sclerotherapy.

Spider vein patient treated at La Jolla Vein Care with sclerotherapy. Notice the presence of a blue ‘feeder vein’ that gives rise to the spider veins. It is important to treat ‘feeder veins’ to successfully eliminate the spider veins. It is similar to ‘pulling the root’ of a weed rather than clipping the weed to eliminate it.

Spider vein patient treated at La Jolla Vein Care with sclerotherapy. Note that spider veins can vary in size, location and severity. Depending on the severity of the condition, multiple treatment sessions may be required for optimal

Note that spider veins can vary in size, location, and severity. This patient had a large cluster of spider veins that appear as a bluish-purple discoloration on the outside of the knee. This patient has bruising after treatment which will fade over several weeks.

Spider Vein Sclerotherapy: Before & After Photos2021-11-04T19:10:42-07:00
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CONTACT INFORMATION

La Jolla/UTC

Vista

Patient Privacy Practices

Privacy Policy

Hippa Privacy Practices
HIPAAOneTM Certified Seal 2

Use the search features below to find articles and insights for the diagnosis and treatment of vascular disease

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT SAN DIEGO

La Jolla/ UTC

North County San Diego/ Vista — Endovascular Center
Now Open! Call/Text for Appointments

© Copyright 2010-2024, La Jolla Vein & Vascular | All Rights Reserved

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