8, 2, 2023

Osteoarthritis

2023-01-14T13:21:25-08:00

Osteoarthritis of the knee:

The most common cause of knee pain is knee osteoarthritis. The pain may come and go, become worse over time, or come accompanied by other symptoms, including knee stiffness. The condition develops due to degeneration of the cartilage. While the cartilage does not contain any nerves, damage or missing cartilage in the knee causes friction between bones and bone tissue changes, leading to pain. 

For example, damaged cartilage can lead to various bone changes such as: 

-Bone Spurs: 

Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, are abnormal bony growth at the knee joints with damaged cartilage. The joint bones produce the bone spurs to compensate for missing or deteriorated cartilage. Bone spurs have an irregular shape that creates more friction in the knee joint, causing discomfort and pain. 

-Subchondral Bone Sclerosis: 

Due to undistributed weight loads, the tibia and femur surfaces, which lie beneath the cartilage, can change in composition, making it harden. 

-Cysts and Bone Marrow Lesions:

Missing or deteriorated knee cartilage can also lead to cysts development and bone marrow lesions (areas of abnormal swelling). These cysts and lesions lead to knee discomfort and pain. 

“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.

For more information on varicose veins and eliminating underlying venous insufficiency, check this link out full of resources. 

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

Osteoarthritis2023-01-14T13:21:25-08:00

28, 6, 2022

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

2022-05-23T16:33:51-07:00

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

 

Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is an interventional radiology procedure used to treat knee pain due to osteoarthritis. The procedure minimizes the flow of blood to the knee lining (synovium). Osteoarthritis causes the bones in the knee joint to rub each other, creating friction. This leads to increased flow of blood to the knee due to inflammation. Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is a relatively new and effective minimally invasive procedure that is ideal for people with;

 

  • Mild to severe knee osteoarthritis
  • People who have not responded to medication, injections, and therapy
  • People who are not read to undergo partial or complete knee replacement surgery

 

While the procedure does not treat the underlying cartilage damage, it effectively treats the symptoms associated with knee arthritis. Additionally, unlike knee surgery, physical therapy is unnecessary after undergoing the Genicular artery embolization (GAE) procedure.

 

Aftercare and Recovery

 

Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is an outpatient procedure performed with moderate ‘twilight’ sedation, meaning that the patient does not need to speed the night in the hospital. The surgeon usually uses x-ray imaging to make an incision in the groin to access the femoral artery. After making the incision, the surgeon will insert a catheter into the femoral artery, which carries the blood to your knee lining.

 

The catheter injects tiny beads into the arteries to block them and reduces blood flow to the area of inflammation. Reduced blood flow alleviates inflammation, pain, and discomfort associated with knee osteoarthritis (OA). During the procedure, the surgeon usually views the patient’s leg images in real-time, making them precise and effective. The procedure does not take long when compared to other knee surgeries. While the Genicular artery embolization (GAE) length mainly depends on the damage extent, it takes about 1-2 hours to complete the procedure.

 

Before the procedure, your doctor will brief you on everything you need to know about the procedure. Your doctor will ask you questions regarding your previous surgeries, current/previous medical conditions, and if you are taking any medications. If you take blood-thinning medications or products containing aspirin, the doctor will also issue instructions on discontinuing the medication before the Genicular artery embolization (GAE ) procedure.

 

You are advised to reach the medical facility early enough to prepare for the procedure. The doctor will ask you to remove the clothes over your knee area and to wear a gown. You will also receive sedation to reduce any discomfort or pain associated with the procedure. The procedure does not require general anesthesia, meaning you will be awake during the procedure. The sedative works to numb the affected area only. It will help if you bring a relative or friend to drive you home after the procedure. It takes time for the sedative to wear out. Of course, you would not want to drive while your leg is partly numb.

 

Genicular artery embolization (GAE ) procedure, meaning that you will return home the same day. Typically, you will start experiencing pain and discomfort relief in 2-3 weeks as the inflammation of the knee lining reduces. While some patients have reported pain relief almost immediately after the procedure, it is not always the case.

 

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)2022-05-23T16:33:51-07:00

What Causes Vulvar Varicosities?

2022-05-12T12:57:33-07:00

What Causes Vulvar Varicosities?

  • There is ongoing research concerning the causes and risk factors associated with pelvic congestion syndrome. However, the most commonly known cause of vulvar varicosities is pregnancy.
  • Blood vessels such as veins contain valves whose task is to prevent blood from flowing back. Veins in the abdominal and lower parts of the body have to work against factors such as gravity to ensure smooth and uninterrupted blood flow.
    However, pregnancy can lead to the dilation of veins.
  • Consequently, this means the valves have to work even harder to keep blood flowing in the proper direction. This dilation can go unnoticed in the initial stages, making pelvic congestion syndrome hard to detect in the early days.
  • Other factors, such as the pregnancy’s pressure on the lower body and the increased blood flow to the genitalia, can alter valves’ normal working and efficiency, which then results in the development of varicose veins.
  • Recent research also shows that pelvic congestion syndrome runs in the family. So, if a relative or someone genetically close to you has encountered a case of vulvar varicosities, you too may be at risk. To combat this situation, you can schedule regular checkups with your physician to ensure no signs of pelvic congestion syndrome.
  • Pelvic tumors have also been identified as a causative and accelerant agent to labia varicose veins. If you’re worried you may have a pelvic tumor – or any other previously undiagnosed tumor, you should seek professional medical services immediately.

So, if this is you and you’ve been experiencing pain, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 

For more information please check out our Youtube Channel at this link. 

 

What Causes Vulvar Varicosities?2022-05-12T12:57:33-07:00

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Pelvic Varicosities?

2022-05-12T12:52:12-07:00

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Pelvic Varicosities?

As highlighted above, pelvic congestion syndrome, also can be pelvic varicosities, can manifest in varying ways. As a result, there’s no one standard sign or symptom associated with the condition.

However, many women suffering from pelvic varicosities report a dull but recurring pain. While the pain may come and go, certain factors and situations can worsen the pain. Some of the situations that could lead to chronic pain include;

  • Standing up for extended periods of time
  • Sitting for long or remaining inactive
  • The period leading to menstruation
  • In the evenings
  • In the mid or late stages of a pregnancy
  • During or after sexual intercourse

While pain is the most recorded symptom associated with labial varicosities, some women also note a different combination of recurring symptoms. These are likely influenced by the severity and advancement of the condition. Other pelvic congestion syndrome symptoms include;

  • Experiencing overly painful menstruation (commonly called dysmenorrhea)
  • Excessive or abnormal bleeding during menstruation
  • Swelling of the vulva or vagina
  • Irritable bowel syndromes
  • Backache
  • Fatigue
  • Increased urination
  • Depression
  • Hip pain
  • Change in the vaginal discharge
  • The appearance of varicose veins around the legs, buttocks, and vulva
  • Abdominal tenderness

Whether alone or part of a combination, you should consult a doctor if you notice these symptoms. This will help rule out any conditions, and if it is indeed a pelvic congestion disorder such as pelvic varicosities, they can begin the treatment process.

So, if this is you and you’ve been experiencing pain, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

 

For more information please check out our Youtube Channel at this link. 

 

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Pelvic Varicosities?2022-05-12T12:52:12-07:00

Symptoms of Pelvic Venous Congestion

2022-05-12T10:49:38-07:00

Symptoms to look for in Chronic Pelvic Venous Congestion

 

Pelvic Venous Congestion also known as (PVCS) is a common venous disease that La Jolla Vein and Vascular is now treating. Most people know varicose veins mostly affect the feet and legs. But varicose veins can also occur in the pelvis causing chronic pelvic pain in women; this condition is known as Pelvic Venous Congestion Syndrome (PVCs) or ovarian vein reflux.

pelvicvenouscongestion

PVC lasts longer than half a year. PVCs are commonly experienced for the first time during or following pregnancy. It is characterized by a heavy aching feeling that may get worse as pregnancy progresses. In most cases, you feel the pain on the left side only. But at other times, you may feel the pain on both the left and right sides. PVCs pain is usually worse during the evenings.

Certain factors also aggravate pelvic venous congestion pain; these include:

  • When you change posture

  • Sex

  • Standing for extended periods

  • Walking

  • Menstrual period

Apart from pelvis pain, other pelvic venous congestion symptoms include:

  • Pain during or after intercourse

  • Sudden urge to urinate

  • Lower back pain

  • Irritable bowel syndrome (diarrhea and constant abdominal pain accompanied with constipation)

  • Deep dyspareunia – pain during intercourse

  • Feeling one’s legs fuller

  • Engorged and distorted veins around the vagina, vulva, inner thigh, buttocks, and sometimes down the legs

pelvic venous congestion

 So, if this is you and you’ve been experiencing pain, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330.

 

For more information please check out our Youtube Channel at this link.

 

Symptoms of Pelvic Venous Congestion2022-05-12T10:49:38-07:00

What is Pelvic Venous Congestion?

2022-05-12T10:42:52-07:00

Pelvic Venous Congestion (PVCS)

 

Pelvic Venous Congestion also known as (PVCS) is a common venous disease that La Jolla Vein and Vascular is now treating. Most people know varicose veins mostly affect the feet and legs. But varicose veins can also occur in the pelvis causing chronic pelvic pain in women; this condition is known as (PVCs) or ovarian vein reflux. Herein is a look at the condition, the risk factors, causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Read on to find out more.

What is pelvic venous congestion syndrome (PVCs)?

pelviccongestionsyndrome

Pelvic Venous congestion is the enlargement of blood vessels in the pelvis due to faulty vein valves in the lower abdomen. See, veins have valves to guide blood flow towards the heart. However, these valves become faulty in some cases due to damage or other problems causing blood to flow backward. When this happens in the lower abdomen, blood builds up in the area, causing the veins to enlarge and change shape.

pelvic venous congestion

PVCs is when varicose veins are in your pelvis. This engorgement or congestion of blood vessels in the lower abdomen can cause chronic, and unbearable pain. It affects at least 1 in three women at some point during their lifetime. Chronic pelvic venous congestion syndrome may last longer than six months. It is not associated with period pain at all. PVCs are common among women who have given birth more than once before. So, if this is you and you’ve been experiencing pain, please give our office a call at 858-550-0330. 

For more information please check out our Youtube Channel at this link. 

 

What is Pelvic Venous Congestion?2022-05-12T10:42:52-07:00

25, 5, 2022

Complications and Causes of Varicoceles

2022-04-29T16:58:30-07:00

What are Varicoceles?

A varicocele is a term used to describe abnormal enlargement of the veins within the scrotum. The veins carry blood from the various body organs back to the heart. Typically, veins have valves that prevent blood backflow. When the valves in the veins within the scrotum don’t work as they should, blood tends to collect in the scrotum, leading to varicoceles.

While varicocele is very common, it is not life-threatening. In fact, research shows that about 15 percent of all adult men have varicocele. For most men, the condition will go unnoticed throughout their life or does not cause any complications. Although the condition is not dangerous, varicocele is a common cause of low sperm production and reduced sperm quality, leading to infertility. Varicoceles can also lead to reduced testosterone production and scrotal discomfort. The condition often does not need treatment until there is a reason for concern about the associated problems. Fortunately, varicocele is easy to diagnose and treat.

 

 

 

Complications and Causes of Varicoceles

 

Unfortunately, although the condition is not life-threatening, it can also lead to several unpleasant complications.

  • Atrophy (shrinking of the affected testicles)

The testicles are made of sperm-producing tubules. Varicoceles damage these tubules, making the testicles soften and shrink.

  • Infertility

The condition also causes the local temperature around or in the testicles to be too high, affecting sperm formation

 

Causes

Medical practitioners are not sure of the leading cause of varicoceles. However, doctors agree that the condition forms when there is a problem with blood flow in the spermatic cord. The problem develops when the valves in the veins do not function properly and allows blood to flow back. As a result, blood pools in the veins causing them to dilate. When the condition is common in adults, it can also develop in teens during puberty. The testicles usually require more blood than usual during this growth cycle. This condition can lead to problems in the veins, preventing the blood from flowing where it should.

For more information on vein and vascular treatment please visit our YouTube Channel. 

 

Complications and Causes of Varicoceles2022-04-29T16:58:30-07:00

La Jolla Vein and Vascular Treatments for Varicoceles

2022-04-29T16:54:19-07:00

La Jolla Vein and Vascular Treatments for Varicoceles 

In most cases, varicoceles treatment is not necessary. Most men with varicoceles do not experience fertility issues. However, if the condition is causing pain, testicular atrophy, or infertility, you can benefit from varicoceles treatment. The treatment helps in sealing off the affected vein and redirecting the blood flow into normal veins. In case of infertility issues, varicoceles treatment helps in improving the quality of the sperm and sperm count. The procedure that we perform at LA Jolla Vein & Vascular on varicocele is percutaneous embolization of varicocele embolization.

The primary goal for varicocele treatment procedures is to help prevent the backflow of blood from the body to the scrotum, helping in cooling off the testes. Surgical procedures will help restrict the blood flow to the veins leading from the testis to the body. However, not all the veins are sealed off. The vassal vein, which is not subject to the same problems as the other varicose veins, is left open to allow blood to leave the testicles after the procedure.

Some of the clear indications that you need varicoceles repair during adolescence include pain, progressive testicular atrophy, and abnormal semen analysis results. While this treatment helps in improving sperm characteristics, it is not clear whether untreated varicoceles can lead to progressive sperm worsening. The common varicoceles treatment options include (La Jolla Vein & Vascular Only Performs Varicocele Embolization):

Percutaneous Embolization (Varicocele Embolization)

Percutaneous embolism is an advanced procedure performed by a radiologist. The specialist usually makes a small cut into a vein in the groin and inserts a tube. The doctor will use X-ray imaging to guide them to the affected veins and insert a coil or a balloon into it through the tube. The procedure helps in blocking the blood flow to the varicocele, shrinking it gradually. This procedure is also done with general anesthesia. 

Catheter-directed Embolization

Catheter-directed embolization is a non-surgical, outpatient treatment performed by an interventional radiologist using imaging to guide catheters or other instruments inside the body. Through mild IV sedation and local anesthesia, patients are relaxed and pain-free during the approximately two-hour procedure. 

For the procedure, an interventional radiologist makes a tiny nick in the skin at the groin using local anesthesia, through which a thin catheter (much like a piece of spaghetti) is passed into the femoral vein directly to the testicular vein. The physician then injects contrast dye to provide direct visualization of the veins so he/she can map out exactly where the problem is and where to embolize or block the vein, which reduces pressure on the varicocele. By embolizing the vein, blood flow is redirected to other healthy pathways. Essentially, the incompetent vein is shut off internally by preventing blood flow, accomplishing what the urologist does without surgery. 

Efficacy of Embolization for Varicoceles 

Embolization is equally effective in improving male infertility and costs about the same as surgical ligation. Pregnancy rates and recurrence rates are comparable to those following surgical varicocelectomy. In one study, sixty percent conceived were treated for infertility. 

In another study, sperm concentration improved in 83 percent of patients undergoing embolization compared to 63 percent of those surgically ligated. Patients who underwent both procedures expressed a strong preference for embolization. 

Varicocelectomy

 

Your doctor will make a small 1-inch incision into your scrotum and use a microscope or magnifying glass to see the veins better. The doctor might use local anesthesia to numb the area. General anesthesia can also help you sleep through the procedure.

 

Laparoscopic Surgery

 

This procedure involves making a much smaller incision and inserting a tube that holds the surgical tools. The surgeon will also use a special camera to see inside you. The procedure is done under general anesthesia to help you sleep through the procedure. The results from the other treatments are similar, only that the incision is small with laparoscopic surgery.

 

Open Surgery

 

The open surgery treatment is usually done on an outpatient basis and using a local or general anesthetic. The surgeon will make a small incision below your groin or abdomen to access the affected vein. Your doctor uses advanced surgical tools such as Doppler ultrasound and a surgical microscope to help guide the procedure. The patient can return to a regular daily routine after two days.

 

Recovery

 

In most cases, you can go back to your routine after two days of varicose treatment. However, it is advisable to take it easy. Avoid strenuous activities and exercise for about two weeks.

People who have undergone percutaneous embolization tend to recover faster. While you may need a day or two off from work, you can return to your workout program in 7-10 days. If the treatment procedure is to help with fertility, your doctor will perform an additional test in 3-4 months. You will be able to see improved results in 6-12 months. It is important to note that more than 50 percent of men who have undergone the procedure have restored their fertility. Additionally, these surgical procedures are also crucial for teens as they help in slowing testicular growth.

 

For more information on vein and vascular treatment please visit our YouTube Channel. 

La Jolla Vein and Vascular Treatments for Varicoceles2022-04-29T16:54:19-07:00

Signs and Symptoms of Varicoceles

2022-04-29T16:45:32-07:00

 

 

What are Varicoceles? 

A varicocele is a term used to describe abnormal enlargement of the veins within the scrotum. The veins carry blood from the various body organs back to the heart. Typically, veins have valves that prevent blood backflow. When the valves in the veins within the scrotum don’t work as they should, blood tends to collect in the scrotum.

Signs and Symptoms of Varicoceles

Most often, Varicoceles have no symptoms or signs. As mentioned earlier, you will barely notice it. However, although rarely, the condition might cause pain. When it does cause pain, it might;

  • Switch from a sharp to a dull discomfort
  • Become worse over the day
  • Increase when due to physical exertion or standing for extended periods
  • Pain that goes away when you lie on your back
  • Impaired infertility

Over time, varicoceles may become more enlarged and become noticeable. Varicoceles are often described as looking like a “bag of worms” sometimes, the condition may also cause a swollen testicle, most often on the left side.

 

When Should You Seek a Doctor?

 

Since symptoms do not accompany varicocele, it often does not require treatment. In some cases, varicoceles are discovered during a fertility evaluation. However, you should see a doctor if you notice any of the following.

  • Pain or swelling in the scrotum
  • Discover a mass on the scrotum
  • You are having a problem with your fertility
  • When you notice that one of your testicles is larger than the other

 

For more information on vein and vascular treatment please visit our YouTube Channel.

Signs and Symptoms of Varicoceles2022-04-29T16:45:32-07:00

What are Varicoceles?

2022-04-29T16:39:28-07:00

What are Varicoceles?

A varicocele is a term used to describe abnormal enlargement of the veins within the scrotum. The veins carry blood from the various body organs back to the heart. Typically, veins have valves that prevent blood backflow. When the valves in the veins within the scrotum don’t work as they should, blood tends to collect in the scrotum, leading to varicoceles.

varicocele

While varicocele is very common, it is not life-threatening. In fact, research shows that about 15 percent of all adult men have varicocele. For most men, the condition will go unnoticed throughout their life or does not cause any complications. Although the condition is not dangerous, varicocele is a common cause of low sperm production and reduced sperm quality, leading to infertility. They can also lead to reduced testosterone production and scrotal discomfort. The condition often does not need treatment until there is a reason for concern about the associated problems. Fortunately, varicocele is easy to diagnose and treat.

How do they Affect the Testis?

 

While numerous theories exist, medical experts agree that they cause the veins to carry warm blood from the abdomen down to the testis. Generally, the testis functions properly at around three degrees below the average body temperature. As such, warmblood can affect the testis’ ability to produce testosterone and sperm.

 

For more information on vein and vascular treatment please visit our YouTube Channel.

What are Varicoceles?2022-04-29T16:39:28-07:00
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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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