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So far lajollaveincare has created 393 blog entries.

8, 9, 2023

Understanding what vein disease is and is not

2023-08-29T18:44:36-07:00

Understanding what vein disease is and is not

Venous reflux disease, alternatively referred to as venous stasis, venous insufficiency, or venous incompetence, is a complex condition affecting the veins of the legs. In this article, we will delve into the details of venous reflux disease, from its causes and symptoms to the progressive nature of the condition. We’ll also explore the crucial role of ultrasound technology in diagnosing and formulating personalized treatment plans.

Understanding Venous Reflux

At the heart of venous reflux disease lies the concept of ‘leaky valves’ within the leg veins. These valves, responsible for maintaining proper blood flow, may fail, causing blood to flow backward (reflux) instead of towards the heart. Venous reflux can occur in both deep and superficial leg veins, affecting the efficiency of blood circulation.

The Anatomy of Reflux

In the leg veins, there are two main types: deep and superficial. The deep veins, residing within the muscle, carry the majority of blood from the legs back to the heart. On the other hand, superficial veins are situated outside the muscle, just beneath the skin. Key players in the realm of superficial veins are the Great Saphenous Vein (GSV), coursing through the thigh and calf, and the small saphenous vein, running along the back of the calf.

Impact of Leaky Valves

Ordinarily, one-way valves in leg veins facilitate blood flow against gravity, aided by the contraction of calf muscles. When these valves become leaky, blood flows backward, leading to blood pooling in the lower legs. This condition manifests in symptoms such as leg heaviness, pain, fatigue, ankle swelling, and even restless legs at night. Over time, venous reflux disease can progress, giving rise to skin changes, including darkening, dryness, itching, and the potential development of venous leg ulcers.

Diagnosis through Ultrasound

Diagnosing venous reflux disease requires specialized tools, with ultrasound technology leading the way. Not all vein issues are visible to the naked eye, as many arise from veins beneath the skin’s surface. Ultrasound examinations provide insights into the direction of blood flow, valve functionality, and the presence of blockages or scars in the veins.

Personalized Treatment Steps

Addressing venous reflux disease involves a strategic approach tailored to each patient’s unique condition. The treatment process typically consists of three key steps:

Step 1: Treating Underlying Reflux
The initial focus is on addressing the root cause—venous reflux. This is achieved by targeting the saphenous veins, which are often the origin of the issue. Innovative vein ablation procedures like radiofrequency ablation, laser ablation, mechanico-chemical ablation (MOCA), and Varithena Foam are employed to restore proper blood flow.

vein disease

Step 2: Tackling Varicose Veins
Once underlying reflux is resolved, attention shifts to varicose veins. Foam sclerotherapy, involving injections of a foamed medication, or minimally invasive removal methods, can be employed to eliminate bulging veins.

vein disease

Step 3: Managing Spider Veins
For those seeking cosmetic enhancement, spider vein treatment through sclerotherapy is available. Although cosmetic in nature, this step completes the comprehensive treatment journey.

vein disease

Venous reflux disease is a multifaceted condition that requires specialized care for effective management. Our approach encompasses state-of-the-art diagnostics, cutting-edge treatments, and personalized care to address the various aspects of this condition. Through our expertise and commitment, we aim to provide transformative outcomes, enhancing both the health and quality of life of our patients. If you’re ready to embark on the journey to healthier veins, contact us to take the first step towards comprehensive vein and vascular wellness.

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Amanda Steinberger, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts! 



Understanding what vein disease is and is not2023-08-29T18:44:36-07:00

New Doctor: Dr Amanda Steinberger: Let’s get to know her!

2023-09-07T10:40:50-07:00

New Doctor: Dr Amanda Steinberger: Let’s get to know her!

Steinberger

We are thrilled to introduce our newest addition to the La Jolla Vein & Vascular team, Dr. Amanda Steinberger, a distinguished interventional radiologist with a passion for advancing the field of venous disease treatment. With a wealth of experience and specialized expertise, Dr. Steinberger brings a unique perspective to our practice, ensuring the highest level of care for our valued patients.

Meet Dr. Amanda Steinberger

Dr. Amanda Steinberger is a board-certified Interventional Radiologist, renowned for her dedication to both Interventional Radiology and Diagnostic Radiology. Her commitment to excellence and patient-centered care sets her apart in the field. What truly sets Dr. Steinberger apart is her specialization in superficial vein disease. With a deep understanding of this complex area, she has earned certification from the American Board of Venous & Lymphatic Medicine, a testament to her expertise.

Exceptional Training and Expertise

Dr. Steinberger’s journey to becoming a leading figure in interventional radiology and venous disease is marked by rigorous training and remarkable achievements. She completed her fellowship training in Vascular & Interventional Imaging at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), a prestigious teaching hospital affiliated with Harvard Medical School. This training not only honed her skills but also exposed her to cutting-edge techniques in the field.

Before her fellowship at BIDMC, Dr. Steinberger completed her residency training in diagnostic radiology at Mercy Catholic Medical Center in Philadelphia. Her comprehensive training laid the foundation for her future success, equipping her with the knowledge and skills to excel in her practice.

Passion for Venous Disease

Dr. Steinberger’s journey into the world of venous disease began early in her career. With her focus set on making a positive impact in this specialized area, she has dedicated over 5 years to practicing and specializing in venous disease. Her commitment to staying at the forefront of advancements in the field ensures that her patients receive the most up-to-date and effective treatments available.

Partnering for Your Wellness

With Dr. Amanda Steinberger joining our team, we are proud to offer an even higher level of expertise and care to our patients. Her passion for venous disease, coupled with her exceptional training, aligns seamlessly with our mission to provide the best possible care and outcomes for those we serve. Whether you’re seeking treatment for varicose veins, spider veins, or other vascular conditions, Dr. Steinberger’s knowledge and dedication ensure that you’re in capable hands.

We extend a warm welcome to Dr. Amanda Steinberger, a trailblazing interventional radiologist whose expertise in venous disease adds a new dimension to our practice. Her commitment to delivering exceptional patient care and staying at the forefront of advancements in her field perfectly aligns with our values. If you’re in search of compassionate, specialized care for your venous health, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Steinberger and experience firsthand the difference that expertise and dedication can make.

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Amanda Steinberger, DO are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts! 

New Doctor: Dr Amanda Steinberger: Let’s get to know her!2023-09-07T10:40:50-07:00

Patient Reviews and Testimonials for La Jolla Vein & Vascular

2023-08-29T18:21:15-07:00

At La Jolla Vein & Vascular,, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive care for individuals dealing with various vein and vascular conditions. Our commitment to excellence and innovation has led to remarkable transformations in the lives of our patients. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through the stories of some of our most common patient transformations, highlighting the impactful changes they experienced through our advanced vein and vascular treatments.

Understanding Venous Disease

Venous disease encompasses a range of conditions, from spider veins and varicose veins to deep vein thrombosis and chronic venous insufficiency. These conditions can cause discomfort, pain, and affect an individual’s overall quality of life. Recognizing the importance of early intervention and tailored treatment plans, we’ve assembled a team of skilled professionals dedicated to addressing these issues.

Common Patient transformations we see: stories of renewal

Patient 1: Journey to Confidence

Patient 1: A vibrant young woman, had been struggling with the appearance of spider veins on her legs. Feeling self-conscious about wearing her favorite dresses and shorts, she turned to our clinic for help. Through personalized sclerotherapy sessions, we targeted her spider veins, effectively diminishing their appearance. With her renewed confidence, she felt empowered to embrace her style without reservation.

Patient 2: Triumph Over Varicose Veins

Patient 2:, An active middle-aged man, had been living with throbbing varicose veins that disrupted his daily activities. Seeking relief, he consulted our experts. After a comprehensive evaluation, we recommended minimally invasive procedures like radiofrequency ablation. The treatment not only alleviated his discomfort but also brought back the joy of participating in outdoor sports and spending quality time with his family.

Patient 3:  Journey to Comfort

Patient 3: A retiree, had been experiencing the effects of chronic venous insufficiency for years. The swelling and discomfort in her legs had taken a toll on her active lifestyle. Our team devised a comprehensive treatment plan, including ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy. The results were beyond her expectations. With reduced swelling and improved circulation, she found herself rediscovering the joy of long walks and gardening.

Our Approach to Transformation

At La Jolla Vein & Vascular, our patient-centric approach involves personalized consultations, state-of-the-art diagnostics, and tailored treatment plans. We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge about their conditions and involving them in the decision-making process. Our commitment to staying at the forefront of medical advancements ensures that our patients receive the most effective and innovative treatments available.

Join Us on the Journey to Wellness

If you or a loved one are grappling with vein and vascular conditions, we invite you to embark on a journey towards renewed wellness with us. Our dedicated team is here to provide not only effective treatments but also compassionate support every step of the way. We understand that each patient’s story is unique, and we’re excited to be part of your journey to improved vein health.

patient patient patientpatient

These stories and many others highlight the profound impact that comprehensive vein and vascular treatments can have on individuals’ lives. Through innovative procedures and a patient-centered approach, we’re committed to bringing about positive transformations that extend far beyond the physical. 

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Amanda Steinberger, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts!

Patient Reviews and Testimonials for La Jolla Vein & Vascular2023-08-29T18:21:15-07:00

Patient Transformation: Spider Veins Vitality

2023-08-29T17:57:43-07:00

Patient Transformation: Spider Veins Vitality

Spider veins, those delicate reddish veins that grace the skin’s surface, can sometimes be more than just a cosmetic concern. In this blog post, we’ll explore what spider veins are, delve into their symptoms, uncover their underlying causes, and shed light on the importance of effective treatment.

What are Spider Veins?

Spider veins, often referred to as thread-like veins, are those fine, reddish veins that can be seen just beneath the skin’s surface. While they are commonly associated with cosmetic issues, they can hint at underlying problems that might require attention. These visible veins are not a sign of healthy circulation.

Unveiling the Underlying Issues

Beneath the surface, feeder veins, also known as ‘reticular veins’ or ‘blue veins,’ can be the culprits behind the appearance of spider veins. These feeder veins, not visible to the naked eye, provide the pathways through which spider veins arise. It’s important to note that spider veins might also be indicative of venous insufficiency. For instance, if spider veins appear around the inner ankles or inner thighs, it could signal an underlying issue with the saphenous vein. In such cases, seeking an ultrasound examination is recommended to pinpoint and treat the root cause effectively.

Spotting the Symptoms

Spider veins can affect individuals in diverse ways. For some, they might be a painless aesthetic concern, while for others, they could lead to discomfort. The most commonly reported symptoms associated with spider veins include burning sensations, throbbing, localized pain, and feelings of heat and itchiness. In more severe cases, spider veins might even bleed.

Peering into the Causes

Spider veins on the legs share a common cause with varicose veins. Both conditions result from leaky vein valves that allow blood to pool within the veins, leading to their stretching and enlargement. On other parts of the body, such as the face and chest, factors like sun damage, hormonal fluctuations, or liver disease can trigger the appearance of spider veins. Hormonal changes, like those occurring during pregnancy, as well as the use of birth control or hormone replacement therapy, can weaken vein walls and contribute to their emergence.

Real Transformations: Patient Success Stories

spider spider spider

The journey to healthier veins is marked by visible transformations, as evidenced by the experiences of our patients who received vein treatment. These before-and-after images showcase the positive impact of effective treatment on individuals dealing with spider veins. The journey from discomfort and aesthetic concern to improved quality of life is a testimony to the importance of seeking the right care.

Spider veins might seem like a minor concern, but they can often be a window into underlying vascular issues. Understanding their causes, symptoms, and potential implications empowers individuals to seek appropriate solutions for their vein health. Whether it’s recognizing the significance of feeder veins, identifying signs of venous insufficiency, or acknowledging the various triggers behind spider veins, education is key. By choosing to address spider veins early on, individuals can embark on a path towards healthier, more comfortable lives.

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Amanda Steinberger, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts! 



Patient Transformation: Spider Veins Vitality2023-08-29T17:57:43-07:00

Patient Transformation: varicose veins vitality

2023-08-29T17:43:24-07:00

Patient Transformation: varicose veins vitality 

Varicose veins, those twisted and bulging veins just beneath the surface of the skin, can be a common concern for many individuals. While they most frequently appear in the legs, they can also emerge in other areas of the body. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of varicose veins, exploring what they are, what causes them, and shedding light on potential treatment options.

What are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that are visible just below the skin’s surface. Their appearance can be alarming, but they are actually a common condition that affects many people. These veins can often cause discomfort, pain, or a heavy feeling in the legs.

Causes of Varicose Veins

The main culprit behind varicose veins is faulty vein valves. These valves are responsible for ensuring proper blood flow by allowing blood to travel towards the heart and preventing it from pooling in the veins. When these valves become leaky, blood starts to accumulate in the veins, causing them to stretch and enlarge. This condition is often a result of venous reflux disease, also known as venous stasis, venous insufficiency, or venous incompetence.

Understanding Venous Reflux

Venous reflux occurs when blood flows backward, against gravity, due to malfunctioning valves. Normally, the calf muscles aid in pumping blood upwards, but with leaky valves, blood tends to pool in the lower legs, causing the veins to bulge at the surface. This condition is frequently observed in the great and small saphenous veins, which are responsible for carrying blood from the legs back to the heart. Over 90% of the time, varicose veins in the legs are linked to these veins.

Our Research Findings

In a notable study led by Dr. Nisha Bunke and published in the Journal of Vascular Ultrasound in 2018, more than 1,000 legs with varicose veins were examined. The research revealed that the great and small saphenous veins were the primary sources of varicose veins in a majority of cases. The Great Saphenous Vein (GSV), coursing up the middle of the thigh and calf, and the Small Saphenous Vein (SSV), located along the back of the calf, were particularly implicated.

Treatment Options

Fortunately, varicose veins are not a condition without solutions. With advancements in medical technology and knowledge, treatment options are available to alleviate discomfort and improve the appearance of affected veins. Various minimally invasive procedures, including laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, and sclerotherapy, have proven effective in treating varicose veins.

Visual Proof: Patient Transformations

varicosevaricosevaricose

Witnessing the outcomes of varicose vein treatment can be truly remarkable. Many individuals experience significant improvements in both the appearance and symptoms of their varicose veins. These before-and-after images serve as a testament to the positive impact that proper treatment can have on one’s vascular health and overall well-being.

Varicose veins might be a common condition, but understanding their causes and treatment options empowers individuals to take control of their vascular health. With modern medical techniques, those suffering from varicose veins can seek relief and experience a significant enhancement in their quality of life. Whether it’s understanding the role of faulty vein valves, exploring the intricacies of venous reflux, or considering various treatment approaches, the journey to healthier veins starts with education and awareness.

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Amanda Steinberger, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts! 

Patient Transformation: varicose veins vitality2023-08-29T17:43:24-07:00

Sclerotherapy 101

2023-05-24T17:30:50-07:00

Sclerotherapy Treatment for Spider Veins

sclerotherapy

You have been recommended to have sclerotherapy injections. Spider veins and reticular veins of the legs are most commonly treated with sclerotherapy. Sclerotherapy involves an injection of a medication into the vein.  This will cause the vein to collapse and gradually fade away. Sclerotherapy has been used to treat spider veins for decades, but newer solutions such as AscleraTM allow for spider veins to be treated with minimal discomfort and immediate return to activities. Vein specialists rarely use saline solutions these days, because alternative solutions are less painful and better tolerated. Sclerotherapy is preferred by most vein specialists over laser because spider veins often have underlying ‘feeder veins’ that can easily be treated with sclerotherapy, but are not addressed by laser. Many people will require more than one treatment session for optimal results. The national average is 2 to 5 treatment sessions. Treatment sessions are often spaced a month apart, but your health care provider will help determine your customized care plan. Wearing compression stockings after treatment will improve results.

For larger veins, the medication may be turned into a foam, this is referred to as foam sclerotherapy. Foam sclerotherapy is similar to sclerotherapy of spider veins but instead of a liquid solution, a foamed-solution is injected directly into the vein via a small needle. The solution can be seen on ultrasound monitoring which allows it to be directed into nearby varicose veins painlessly. The veins will seal shut, and gradually be broken down by the body.

What should I expect on my treatment days?

Sclerotherapy Injecting Foam Sclero into vein

You will sign your consent form then change into shorts provided by the office. We will clean your skin with alcohol.  The sclerosant medication will then be injected into your veins with a fine needle.  After your treatment, we will help you into your compression stockings, then you will walk for 30 minutes prior to getting in your car.  It is normal for your legs to be achy and tender to the touch after treatment

sclerotherapy

 

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Elliot DeYoung, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts! 



Sclerotherapy 1012023-05-24T17:30:50-07:00

31, 8, 2023

Surface Varicose Veins Treatment

2023-05-24T17:22:51-07:00

Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy works well for treating surface varicose veins and veins that are not visible to the naked eye. The foam medication can be seen on ultrasound, which allows us to administer it precisely and direct it towards nearby varicose veins. Foam sclerotherapy can be safely used for veins that travel close to the skin or nerves. It also travels easily through veins with many twists and turns.

surface varicose

WHAT IS POLIDOCANOL (ASCLERA®)?

A variety of sclerosant medications can be used for surface varicose veins, but we prefer polidocanol (brand name Asclera®) because it is the most comfortable for the patient and has the lowest risk of side effects. It is a detergent-type medication that injures the inner lining of the veins. This causes the vein to stop flowing, then eventually close down completely. Polidocanol has been well-studied and has been approved by the FDA since 2010 for the treatment of varicose veins and has been used in Europe for decades. Polidocanol is turned into a foam to treat larger veins. This is an off-label use of the sclerosant but very effective and well tolerated. La Jolla Vein and Vascular providers have extensive experience with foam sclerotherapy.

How many treatments will I need for surface varicose veins?

The number and frequency of treatments depends on a patient’s anatomy, how well the veins respond to each treatment, and the patient’s treatment goals. The national average is 2 to 5 treatment sessions to achieve 80% improvement. Some larger or resistant veins require two or more treatments to respond completely.

What should I expect on my treatment days?

You will sign your consent form then change into shorts provided by the office. We will clean your skin with alcohol, then use ultrasound to localize the veins. The foam medication will then be injected into your veins with a fine needle. You will elevate your legs on a wedge pillow for approximately 15 minutes. After your treatment, we will help you into your compression stockings, then you will walk for 30 minutes prior to getting in your car. It is normal for your legs to be achy and tender to the touch after treatment.

 

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Elliot DeYoung, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts! 

 

Surface Varicose Veins Treatment2023-05-24T17:22:51-07:00

Chemical Ablation: Varithena

2023-05-24T17:13:43-07:00

Varithena (polidocanol injectable foam)

is a prescription medication used to treat the great saphenous vein system (GSV) and associated varicose veins of the GSV system. Varithena improves the symptoms of superficial venous incompetence and the appearance of visible varicosities. It is a non-thermal, non-tumescent, nearly painless method of vein treatment.

WHAT IS VARITHENA?

Varithena

Foam Sclerotherapy

Varithena is a “microfoam” formulation of polidocanol (sclerosing agent) and CO2.

The result is a microfoam that has an appearance and consistency similar to white, foamy shave cream.

Ultrasound guidance is used to inject Varithena® microfoam into the vein. The microfoam fills the lumen for circumferential

contact where it’s designed to displace blood and destroy the endothelial lining efficiently.

Varithena® may be recommended based on your vein location, size, anatomy and vein tortuosity.

Varithena® is:

  • Effective to treat veins of different sizes above and below the knee
  • Requires no incisions, sedation or general anesthesia
  • Does not require a wire to be inserted along the length of your vein
  • Does not use heat, eliminating the risk of thermal injury

How many treatments will I need?

The number and frequency of treatments depends on a patient’s anatomy, how quickly the veins respond, and the patient’s treatment goals.  There is a limit on the amount of medication we can give you each day to avoid causing side effects.  Some larger or resistant veins may require two treatments to respond completely but most veins respond to Varithena® after one treatment.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT ON THE DAY OF TREATMENT?

You will sign your consent form then change into shorts provided by the office.  We will clean your skin with alcohol, then use ultrasound to localize the veins.  The foam medication will then be injected into your veins with a fine needle.  The foam fills and treats the desired section of the vein.  The diseased vein collapses and the foam is deactivated.  Your legs will be elevated on a comfortable wedge pillow for approximately 15 minutes. After your treatment, we will help you into your compression stockings, then you will walk for 30 minutes prior to getting in your car.

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Elliot DeYoung, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts! 

 

Chemical Ablation: Varithena2023-05-24T17:13:43-07:00

Endovenous Laser Ablation

2023-05-24T17:05:49-07:00

VenaCure is an endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) procedure for backwards flow (or “reflux”) in your saphenous vein(s).

Laser is also referred to as endovenous laser ablation therapy (EVLT). The great and small saphenous veins are the two main superficial veins of the leg. They run along the inner leg and the back of the leg, respectively.

This minimally invasive procedure can be performed in the office in less than an hour and patients return to their usual level of activity the same day.

How does the endovenous treatment work for reflux?

The skin is numbed with lidocaine, then a tiny wire and the laser catheter are inserted into the vein. The catheter delivers laser energy to the vein wall, causing it to seal shut. The remaining healthy veins continue to bring blood back to the heart.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT ON THE DAY OF TREATMENT FOR REFLUX?

The procedure is performed with local anesthesia, but many patients elect to use a mild oral sedative (Valium), which is taken after checking in and completing all paperwork.

You will change into a gown and leave underwear on. Depending on the vein to be treated, you will lay on your back or on your belly.  We do our best to make special accommodations (for example, if you cannot lie flat or cannot bend a knee very well) with body positioning and using pillows.  We will do our best to make you comfortable. Then, we will give you the option of watching a movie on Netflix or listening to music. Once you are comfortable, your leg (s) will be prepped with a cleansing solution for the sterile procedure. The doctor will perform an ultrasound to map the vein (s) to be treated.

Then, a numbing agent (lidocaine) will be injected into the skin. In the numb area of the skin, a tiny puncture is made to pass the laser catheter under ultrasound guidance.  Your doctor will then use a needle to administer a combination of cool saline and local anesthetic around the vein.  This solution numbs the vein and insulates it from the surrounding tissue.  Laser energy will then be used to painlessly treat the vein.

Once your vein has been treated, we will help you into your compression stocking, which you will wear for 72 hours continuously. You will walk for 30 minutes prior to getting in your car.

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Elliot DeYoung, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts! 

Endovenous Laser Ablation2023-05-24T17:05:49-07:00

RFA for perforator vein reflux

2023-05-24T16:56:04-07:00

Radiofrequency perforator ablation (RFA) is performed on perforator veins, short connections between your deep and superficial veins. Perforator veins can suffer the same sort of valve damage and retrograde blood flow (venous reflux) as other veins. Most patients with vein disease who experience skin changes, (that also may result in leg ulcers if left untreated) have reflux in perforator veins near their ulcers, as well as in the superficial or deep veins.

RFA

What are Perforator Veins?

Perforator veins serve as connections between the two networks of veins in the extremities, the superficial venous system and the deep venous system. Perforators connect the two parallel systems, and normally drain blood from the superficial veins to the deep veins as part of the process of returning oxygen-depleted blood to the heart.

Perforator veins have one-way valves designed to prevent backflow of blood down towards the superficial veins. When those valves no longer function properly and reflux occurs, the buildup of blood and pressure can cause not only the superficial veins but the perforators themselves to become incompetent. Perforator veins in the lower leg and ankle are particularly vulnerable to distention and incompetence, and the resultant circulatory problems create an increased likelihood of edema, skin discoloration, dermatitis and skin ulcers in the immediate area.

Your doctor may have recommended RFA treatment of your perforator vein(s) because it is contributing to:

  • Venous leg ulcers
  • Pre-ulcerative skin changes
  • Persistent or recurrent varicose veins
  • Leg pain
  • Leg swelling

“Bringing Experts Together for Unparalleled Vein and Vascular Care”

La Jolla Vein & Vascular (formerly La Jolla Vein Care) is committed to bringing experts together for unparalleled vein and vascular care. 

Nisha Bunke, MD, Sarah Lucas, MD, and Elliot DeYoung, MD are specialists who combine their experience and expertise to offer world-class vascular care. 

Our accredited center is also a nationally known teaching site and center of excellence. 

For more information on treatments and to book a consultation, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 For a deeper dive into vein and vascular care, please check out our Youtube Channel at this link, and our website https://ljvascular.com

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency,

Please follow our social media Instagram Profile and Tik Tok Profile for more fun videos and educational information. 

For more blogs and educational content, please check out our clinic’s blog posts! 

 

RFA for perforator vein reflux2023-05-24T16:56:04-07:00

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© Copyright 2010-2023, La Jolla Vein & Vascular | All Rights Reserved

CONTACT INFORMATION

La Jolla/UTC

Vista

Patient Privacy Practices

Privacy Policy

Hippa Privacy Practices

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 2010-2023, La Jolla Vein & Vascular | All Rights Reserved

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