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So far La Jolla Vein Care has created 122 blog entries.

4, 4, 2014

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

New Cosmetic Spider Vein Clinic

2021-11-04T19:15:57-07:00

While the doctors at La Jolla Vein Care are committed to advancing vein care through medicine, education and research (Dr. Bunke just published the 2nd edition of the Vein Book and Dr. Fronek remains an integral part of the American College of Phlebology), we are pleased to offer our new RN/ PA (Registered Nurse/ Physician Assistant) cosmetic sclerotherapy clinic for simple spider vein conditions offered on Mondays and Tuesdays.  Simple spider vein conditions are those that are cosmetic and can be treated with liquid sclerotherapy.  This does not include foam sclerotherapy for larger varicose veins, which is administered by the doctor.

The cost is based on how much solution is used, so it is a cost-efficient means of treating that ‘stubborn patch of veins’ or ‘clean up’ of small spider veins after larger varicose vein removal.  The cost is $100 for the first syringe (2cc) and $75 for each additional syringe.

spider veins

Spider veins can come in different sizes and severity. Depending on the severity of the spider veins, multiple sclerotherapy treatments may be required.

New patients or patients not seen within two years will be required a physician consultation first.  For more information or to schedule your consultation, call 858-550-0330.

New Cosmetic Spider Vein Clinic2021-11-04T19:15:57-07:00

13, 2, 2014

Watch A Phlebectomy: Varicose Vein Removal

2021-11-03T23:51:15-07:00

 

microphlebectomy

Microphlebectomy is one treatment option for removing varicose veins on the surface of the legs. It is performed in the office at La Jolla Vein Care using a local anesthetic.  It involves making a tiny puncture/incision and using a tool that resembles a ‘crochet hook’ to remove the varicose veins.  The incision is so small that stitches are not required.   This procedure may take 1 to 2 hours, depending on the extent of the varicose veins.  Return to normal activities after the procedure is possible. Compression stockings are required after treatment.  There are different treatment options to remove varicose veins. It is important to discuss what is best for you with your doctor.

To understand more, watch a video of a microphlebectomy performed at La Jolla Vein Care this week by clicking here: Microphlebectomy

Watch A Phlebectomy: Varicose Vein Removal2021-11-03T23:51:15-07:00

New Foam Treatment of Varicose Veins

2021-11-04T19:24:26-07:00

In November of 2013, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)  approved Varithena,™   a new type of foam treatment for the treatment of patients with incompetent veins and visible varicosities of the great saphenous vein (GSV) system. Varithena™ is a pharmaceutical-grade, low-nitrogen, polidocanol foam dispensed from a canister device. In two pivotal, placebo-controlled Phase III trials, VANISH-1 and VANISH-2, Varithena™ achieved a clinically meaningful improvement in the symptoms of superficial venous incompetence and the appearance of visible varicosities and addressed the underlying venous incompetence in the majority of patients treated. Varithena™ (polidocanol injectable foam) is a sclerosing agent indicated for the treatment of incompetent great saphenous veins, accessory saphenous veins, and visible varicosities of the great saphenous vein system above and below the knee.  Varithena™ improves the symptoms of superficial venous incompetence and the appearance of visible varicosities.  Treatment is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure that requires neither tumescent anesthesia nor sedation.  Foam sclerotherapy has been used for years by medical doctors. What is new with Varithena™, is that the foam is pre-made with low-nitrogen as opposed to room air, and is dispensed in a proprietary canister.   It is not yet available in doctor’s offices. Making Foam

New Foam Treatment of Varicose Veins2021-11-04T19:24:26-07:00

28, 1, 2014

Dr. Fronek teaches primary care doctors to care for patients with vein problems

2022-01-04T05:17:54-08:00

Dr. Fronek was recently invited to discuss vein disorders with the Family Medicine Residency Program at Scripps Chula Vista.  The doctors-in-training were excited to learn about the variety of problems that patients have with their veins – including spider veins,  varicose veins,  blood clots, and leg ulcers.  Primary care doctors see patients with vein disorders every day, and yet very few medical schools or residency training programs include any information about these common problems.  Dr. Fronek and Dr. Bunke-Pacquette are committed to sharing their expertise with colleagues and are frequently asked to speak at medical meetings.  Primary care doctors, in particular, can often start patients with vein disorders on conservative treatment, including graduated compression stockings and regular exercise (walking is usually the best exercise for vein disorders), as well as certain supplements such as horse chestnut seed extract, that can alleviate the symptoms that many patients with vein disease suffer from.  Informed primary care doctors can also refer patients to a vein specialist when symptoms aren’t diminished with conservative treatment, if the varicose veins worsen while a patient is using compression and exercise, or if the patient suffers from a venous leg ulcer.

Dr. Fronek teaches primary care doctors to care for patients with vein problems2022-01-04T05:17:54-08:00

Oxford University Press releases The Vein Book

2014-01-24T22:49:10-08:00

The second edition of The Vein Book, edited by Dr. Nisha Bunke Paquette and Dr. John Bergan will be released on January 30th, 2014 by the Oxford University Press.

Since its initial publication nearly a decade ago, The Vein Book continues to serves as the ultimate comprehensive resource on venous disease. Upholding its reputation as the go-to reference for complete, authoritative, and up-to-date information about venous function and dysfunction, this second edition effectively bridges the gap between clinical medicine and basic science, suitable both for the seasoned surgeon as well as the medical student.

La Jolla Vein Care's Dr. Bunke releases The Vein Book

La Jolla Vein Care’s Dr. Bunke releases The Vein Book

The book is divided into five essential sections: basic considerations, primary superficial venous insufficiency, venous thromboembolism, chronic venous insufficiency, and congenital venous malformations. The book covers the entire spectrum of venous conditions from clarification of the pathophysiology of venous insufficiency, molecular mechanisms in the cause of varicose veins, new treatment options for varicose veins and spider veins, startling new treatment for venous thromboembolic disease, and effective treatment for leg ulcers.

More user-friendly and encyclopedic than ever, The Vein Book is still a must-have for vascular surgeons, phlebologists, interventional radiologists, research scientists, epidemiologists, and surgeons at all levels.  It is available for pre-order at Amazon.com.

Oxford University Press releases The Vein Book2014-01-24T22:49:10-08:00
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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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