18, 3, 2024

What are 3 highly effective cosmetic laser procedures for youthful skin?

2024-03-06T13:29:12-08:00

Unveiling the Powerful Advanced Cosmetic Laser Procedures in Our Vista Practice

In the quest for radiant and youthful skin, advanced cosmetic laser procedures stand at the forefront, offering remarkable solutions to a myriad of skin concerns. La Jolla Vein & Vascular proudly introduces our state-of-the-art laser treatments, performed by our esteemed physicians, Dr. Amanda Steinberger and Dr. Heidi Busch, at our Vista location. Let’s delve into the transformative capabilities of our advanced laser technology and how it can address a wide range of conditions with precision and efficacy.

Personalized Treatment for Every Concern

Our laser treatments are meticulously designed to cater to the unique needs of each individual, offering customized solutions for a variety of skin concerns. Whether you’re troubled by broken blood vessels, sun spots, precancerous lesions, or wrinkles and enlarged pores, our physicians will craft a tailored treatment plan to address your specific concerns. Utilizing lasers and light technology, we can effectively treat conditions such as rosacea, telangiectasias, sun damage, and brown sun spots, restoring your skin’s natural beauty and vitality.

Revolutionizing Resurfacing with Laser Technology

One of the cornerstone treatments in our arsenal is laser skin resurfacing, a highly effective solution for reducing wrinkles, scars, pigmentation, and other imperfections caused by aging, sun damage, and hormonal changes. Our preferred method for resurfacing is the Erbium Yag Laser, renowned for its ability to achieve dramatic improvements in skin appearance with minimal downtime. By targeting surface pigmentation and fine lines on various body parts, including the face, hands, neck, and chest, this procedure delivers impressive results for mild to moderate skin wrinkling and discoloration, revitalizing your skin from within.

Combatting Vascular Skin Issues and Red Discoloration

Vascular lesions on the skin, such as broken blood vessels, red discoloration, and spider veins, can detract from the overall appearance of your skin, causing aesthetic concerns and discomfort. Our Vascular Reduction treatment harnesses the power of Yag energy to heat and collapse blood vessels, effectively treating unwanted vascular lesions and creating a more smoother, more youthful-looking body. Utilizing the Long Pulsed Yag Laser handpiece, we can target unsightly spider veins and various vascular lesions, matching the laser wavelength to the hemoglobin color to achieve optimal results. With minimal downtime and impressive efficacy, our vascular reduction treatment offers a non-invasive solution to common aesthetic issues, restoring confidence and beauty.

Harnessing the Versatility of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy emerges as a versatile and effective solution for treating a myriad of skin conditions, including rosacea, sun spots, photodamage, and melasma. Unlike traditional lasers, IPL utilizes a broad-band light source and multiple laser wavelengths to target brown and red discoloration, resulting in a more even and radiant complexion. With its gentle and non-ablative nature, Spectrum IPL treatments offer a “no downtime” source of photorejuvenation, allowing patients to relax and enjoy the transformative effects of this innovative technology.

Embark on Your Journey to Radiant Skin Today

Are you ready to unlock the full potential of your skin? Schedule a consultation with our experienced physicians at La Jolla Vein & Vascular to explore the transformative power of advanced cosmetic laser procedures. Let us create a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique dermatologic care needs, and embark on a journey to healthier, more vibrant health today. With our cutting-edge laser technology and personalized approach to skincare, the radiant complexion you’ve always dreamed of is within reach.

“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 for more fun videos and educational information. 

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

What are 3 highly effective cosmetic laser procedures for youthful skin?2024-03-06T13:29:12-08:00

23, 2, 2024

What can I expect from vein treatment with Venaseal™?

2024-03-06T13:45:44-08:00

Exploring Venaseal™: A Comprehensive Look into Advanced Vascular Wellness

The VenaSeal™ closure system, sanctioned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), presents an innovative and efficient method for tackling varicose veins. Distinguished from conventional methods, this minimally invasive procedure employs a distinctive medical adhesive to permanently seal problematic superficial veins. In this article, we’ll delve into the workings of the VenaSeal™ system, its notable advantages, and why it emerges as a secure and convenient alternative for varicose vein treatment.

Insight into the VenaSeal™ Sapheon Closure System

The VenaSeal™ Sapheon Closure System marks a revolutionary approach to addressing varicose veins, commonly referred to as venous reflux disease. Here’s a breakdown of its operation:

Minimally Invasive Technique: Commencing the procedure, the doctor utilizes ultrasound guidance to maneuver a small catheter through a tiny access point in the skin and into the affected vein.

Application of Medical Adhesive: The VenaSeal™ dispenser administers a minute quantity of medical adhesive to seal the vein effectively. This adhesive serves to permanently close the problematic vein, halting further reflux.

Immediate Blood Diversion: Upon sealing the affected vein, the body promptly redirects blood flow through other healthy veins in the leg.

Key Benefits Offered by VenaSeal™

VenaSeal™ presents several notable advantages compared to traditional varicose vein treatments:

Anesthesia-Free with No Needle Injections: Unlike certain treatments necessitating tumescent anesthesia involving multiple needle injections, VenaSeal™ is virtually painless and does not involve injecting anesthesia into the leg.

No Pre-Procedural Medications: Patients can promptly resume their routine activities post-treatment as there’s no requirement for pre-procedural drugs.

Absence of Burns or Nerve Damage Risk: In contrast to heat-based procedures, VenaSeal™ eliminates the possibility of skin burns or nerve damage, ensuring a safer experience.

Minimal Post-Treatment Discomfort: In most instances, patients do not need post-treatment pain medication or uncomfortable compression stockings, rendering the recovery process more comfortable.

A Unique and Secure Approach

The VenaSeal™ closure system stands as the solitary non-tumescent, non-thermal, non-sclerosant procedure that utilizes a proprietary medical adhesive delivered endovenously to close the vein. This distinctive approach boasts several discernible advantages:

Reduced Risk of Nerve Injury: In comparison to thermal-based procedures, VenaSeal™ significantly diminishes the risk of nerve injury, particularly when treating the small saphenous vein.

Clinical Safety and Efficacy: Numerous clinical studies consistently affirm that the VenaSeal™ procedure is both safe and efficacious in treating varicose veins.

For those in search of a secure, minimally invasive remedy for varicose veins, the VenaSeal™ closure system might be the solution. With its unique medical adhesive approach, lack of anesthesia, and minimal post-treatment discomfort, VenaSeal™ emerges as a convenient and effective choice for permanently addressing varicose veins. Bid farewell to the discomfort of venous reflux disease and welcome a healthier, pain-free future with VenaSeal™.

“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 for more fun videos and educational information. 

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



What can I expect from vein treatment with Venaseal™?2024-03-06T13:45:44-08:00

14, 6, 2023

Vein & Vascular conditions can be hidden

2023-05-24T16:17:31-07:00

Noninvasive Vascular Laboratory

 

The Vascular Laboratory at La Jolla Vein & Vascular utilizes advanced, noninvasive, diagnostic, medical ultrasound technology while ensuring high quality results to detect diseases that may affect blood flow in the arteries and veins.  We utilize “state-of-the-art” color duplex ultrasound imagers and indirect testing equipment.

The Vascular Lab offers the convenience of:

  • Non-invasive testing
  • Same-day imaging appointments
  • Follow-up clinic visits with our on-site vascular team
  • Appointments at multiple locations including La Jolla, Poway, Chula Vista, and Solana Beach.

What is Duplex Ultrasound

vascular

Duplex ultrasound involves using high frequency sound waves to look at the speed of blood flow, and structure of the blood vessels. The term “duplex” refers to the fact that two modes of ultrasound are used, Doppler and B-mode. The B-mode transducer obtains an image of the vessel being studied. The Doppler probe within the transducer evaluates the velocity and direction of blood flow in the vessel.

Types of Ultrasound Testing Offered:

Direct testing (duplex imaging)

Venous

  • Deep Vein Thrombosis- upper or lower extremity
  • Venous Reflux

Arterial

  • Abdominal Aorta
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening- must meet criteria of SAAAVE Act
  • Carotid Duplex
  • Lower Extremity Duplex

Indirect testing (non-imaging)

  • Arterial –Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) with waveforms
  • Arterial -Segmental pressures and waveforms (P&Ws), upper or lower extremity

vascular

vascular

Check pulse measurement of vascular examination

Who Performs the test?

Accuracy is critical. Our ultrasounds are ALWAYS  performed by a credentialed sonographer, called a Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT). An RVT is a sonographer who completed a two-year ultrasound program, plus additional clinical training and obtained certification by meeting the highest standards by The American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography® (ARDMS®).  It is important that a specially trained RVT perform the study, because a special protocol must be followed for each study to meet accreditation standards.  The protocol involves taking images at certain anatomic locations using special waveforms to show blood flow. All images taken by the RVT are reviewed by the physician.

 

5

Learn More About Testing

 

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Ultrasound

Venous ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images of the veins in the body. It is commonly used to search for blood clots, especially in the veins of the leg – a condition often referred to as deep vein thrombosis. Ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation and has no known harmful effects.

Venous Reflux Ultrasound

Ultrasound looks at deep and superficial veins in the legs to check for venous-valvular incompetence (the underlying condition that causes varicose veins). 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, skin changes, patients who have failed prior treatment, patients who are symptomatic and in some patients with certain anatomic patterns of spider veins. Up to 40 million Americans have varicose veins. Left untreated, the veins may become worse.

Before your test:

This study does not require any preparation. You should not wear your compression stockings the same day as the examination.  Make sure to be hydrated.

6

Carotid Artery Ultrasound

Ultrasound evaluation of the carotid arteries that screens for buildup of fatty plaque — one of the leading causes of strokes. Carotid arteries are the main blood vessels to the brain. They can develop a buildup of plaque caused by atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. When the buildup becomes very severe, it can cause a stroke. A stroke occurs when part of the brain is damaged by these vascular problems; in fact, 80 percent of strokes are “ischemic strokes” where part of the circulation to the brain is cut off, usually due to blockages in the carotid arteries. The process is similar to the buildup of plaque in arteries in the heart that causes heart attacks. Strokes are the third leading cause of death in the United States according to the National Center for Health Statistics.

Peripheral Arterial Disease Testing

This test uses ultrasound and blood pressure measurements to check for peripheral arterial disease (plaque build-up) in the lower extremities. If you get leg cramps when you walk, it may be a sign of PAD. Learn more about keeping your legs healthy. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) occurs when atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, causes a buildup of plaque in the blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to all the tissues of the body. As these plaques worsen, they reduce essential blood flow to the limbs and can even cause complete blockages of the arteries. Early on, PAD may only cause difficulty walking, but in its most severe forms, it can cause painful foot ulcers, infections, and even gangrene, which could require amputation. People with PAD are three times more likely to die of heart attacks or strokes than those without PAD.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

The abdominal aorta serves the entire lower half of the body.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) is an enlargement or “bulge” that develops in a weakened area within the largest artery in the abdomen. The pressure generated by each heartbeat pushes against the weakened aortic wall, causing the aneurysm to enlarge. If the AAA remains undetected, the aortic wall continues to weaken, and the aneurysm continues to grow. Eventually, the aneurysm becomes so large, and its wall so weak, that rupture occurs. When this happens there is massive internal bleeding, a situation that is usually fatal. The only way to break this cycle is to find the AAA before it ruptures. Nearly 200,000 people in the U.S. each year are diagnosed with an AAA, which can be deadly without 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

 

Vein & Vascular conditions can be hidden2023-05-24T16:17:31-07:00

Patient Reviews & Testimonials: La Jolla Vein & Vascular

2023-05-24T12:45:25-07:00

La Jolla Vein & Vascular is a state-of-the-art medical center dedicated exclusively to the diagnosis and treatment of vein and arterial conditions, below are some incredible patient reviews and testimonials. 

 

The patients who have given reviews have been treated for one or multiple of our vein or vascular conditions. Vein conditions include varicose veins, spider veins, and venous leg ulcers, chronic venous insufficiency, edema, lymphedema, and deep vein thrombosis.  Arterial conditions and treatments such as peripheral arterial disease (PAD), atherectomy, angioplasty, stenting.  We also offer prostate artery embolization (PAE) to treat BPH, varicocele embolization for men and uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), pelvic venous congestion (PVCS), pelvic and labial varicose veins for women.  Osteoarthritis treatment includes genicular artery embolization (GAE) to alleviate knee pain due to arthritis.

 

Below are some patient reviews and testimonials.

reviews reviews reviews

“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,

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

 

Patient Reviews & Testimonials: La Jolla Vein & Vascular2023-05-24T12:45:25-07:00

21, 3, 2023

Vascular Disease: PAD

2023-02-13T17:10:23-08:00

Peripheral artery disease is a subset of vascular disease,also referred to as peripheral arterial disease (PAD), which develops when excessive plaque buildup on the artery walls causes narrowing of the arteries. The arteries deliver oxygen-rich blood from the heart to other parts of the body. When plaque builds up, it usually restricts the flow of blood, oxygen, and glucose. The obstruction causes pain in the leg as the muscles and tissues are starved for oxygen and other nutrients from the blood. While the pain usually occurs in your legs primarily, it can also be felt in other parts of the body, including your arms, stomach, hip, head, and kidneys.

PAD

Are You at Risk for Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)?

In most cases, the PAD symptoms are on the lower extremities. You may experience some pain, craping, or tiredness in your hip or leg muscles when climbing stairs or walking. However, the pain usually goes away with rest, only to resurface when you start walking again. Individuals suffering from peripheral arterial disease are at a high risk of coronary artery disease, stroke, or heart attack. Even worse, if left untreated, the condition can lead to gangrene and amputation.

Peripheral Arterial Disease – Diagnosis

At La Jolla Vein & Vascular, we have highly trained physicians who offer a comprehensive diagnosis to develop customized treatments of Peripheral artery disease (PAD). We understand that no two patients’ conditions are similar. Our full-service vascular lab provides state-of-the-art testing to ensure that our physicians address each patient case quickly and accurately. Our doctors and nurses also have broad experience in this field and use advanced tools to achieve limb-saving results even for challenging, impaired patients. Our PAD diagnosis procedure involves the following:

“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. 


Vascular Disease: PAD2023-02-13T17:10:23-08:00

7, 2, 2023

Osteoarthritis 101

2023-01-14T13:20:58-08:00

Osteoarthritis is the most common arthritis form that affects millions of people across the globe. While OA can affect any joint, it often damages the knees, hands, spine, and hips. Also known as wear and tear arthritis, the condition develops when the protective cartilage cushioning the ends of the bone in a joint wears away over time. Joints are parts of the body where two or more bones meet. These parts include your knee, hip, hands, backbone (any part of the body that you can bend has a joint).

The ends of the bones in a joint have a smooth, slippery surface referred to as the cartilage. This protective covering allows the bones to rub against each other without friction. Osteoarthritis causes the wear and tear of the cartilage between the bones, making the joint rough. The increased resistance at the joint causes stiffness, pain, swelling, and decreased ability to move.

While various treatments help in managing the OA symptoms, damaged joints are not reversible. Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active c will also help in slowing the disease progression. Although OA can affect both men and women at any age, individuals aged over 45 years are at an increased risk. Based on the research done by the Arthritis Foundation, osteoarthritis affects more than 27 million people in the USA alone, with the knee being the most susceptible part. Research also shows that women are at an increased risk of developing OA than men.

“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. 



Osteoarthritis 1012023-01-14T13:20:58-08:00

13, 1, 2023

Spider Veins & Treatment

2022-12-26T11:48:20-08:00

One of the most commonly used ways to treat spider veins is through a procedure called Sclerotherapy. At La Jolla Vein and Vascular we have seen great patient transformations with this type of therapy. If you are interested in knowing if you have spider veins, check this article out. 

Sclerotherapy

Why was I 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 Asclera 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?

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 into your car. It is normal for your legs to be achy and tender to the touch after treatment. 

What should I do after treatment? 

You will be instructed on how long to wear compression stockings after treatment, depending on the size of the veins that are treated. Most patients wear thigh-high compression stockings continuously for 1-3 days, then another 7 days. You may shower with the stockings on or take a quick cool shower with them off. 

You should walk 30 minutes twice daily after treatment and move your legs frequently throughout the day with short walks and/or calf exercises. This avoids pooling of blood in the legs. Avoid prolonged sitting during the day. 

It is normal to have aching in the treated veins. This responds well to walking, ice packs, and anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve). 

What should I avoid after treatment? 

For at least two weeks after treatment, you should avoid strenuous exercise (anything more than a brisk walk), heavy lifting, saunas or hot tubs, and leg massages. All of these dilate the superficial veins and interfere with their healing. You should also avoid airline travel for two weeks after treatment. 

What are the possible side effects?

You will likely have some bruising over the injection sites, then the treated veins may become firm and blue. 

The skin overlying treated veins may also develop brownish hyperpigmentation as the blood products within those veins are absorbed by the body; in some patients it can take up to a year to fade. Some patients temporarily develop some very fine, pink spider veins in areas where veins have been treated (telangiectatic matting). These usually resolve spontaneously over several weeks but occasionally require additional treatment to clear. If you notice the spider veins have not gone away after treatment, this information may be helpful for you. 

“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. 

 

Spider Veins & Treatment2022-12-26T11:48:20-08:00

21, 10, 2022

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

2022-09-19T19:03:10-07:00

What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

With modern medication and care, conditions like fibroid tumors have become more treatable and easier to manage. Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), for instance, is a fairly straightforward procedure used in the treatment of fibroid tumors in the uterus.

Sometimes referred to as uterine artery embolization (UAE), the uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) procedure helps countless women plagued by fibroid tumors.

What does the uterine fibroid embolization treatment entail, and how can you prepare for the procedure? Here’s everything you need to know about uterine fibroids treatment.

What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

The muscular walls of the uterus can sometimes be invaded by non-cancerous fibroid tumors. These tumors are also known as myomas and are a form of benign tumors. While these fibroid tumors rarely become cancerous, they can lead to other severe conditions such as increased menstrual bleeding, bowel or bladder pressure, and pelvic discomfort. 

Admittedly, while uterine fibroid embolization shows a high success rate, more research is still needed on the subject. For instance, at the moment, the procedure is usually performed on women who no longer desire to get pregnant. The UFE procedure may also be used on women who wish to avoid a hysterectomy procedure. 

When is Uterine Fibroid Embolization Used? 

 

As mentioned above, uterine fibroid treatment is rather straightforward and minimally invasive. As a result, the procedure can be used in a wide variety of cases. Some of the instances where the treatment is necessary or advocated for include;

  • Malignant gynecological tumors
  • Hemorrhage after childbirth
  • General or specific trauma

 

How to Prepare for a Uterine Fibroid Embolization Procedure

 

The healthcare professional will first need to ascertain if the fibroid tumors are the underlying cause of any visible and diagnosable symptoms. Afterward, they’ll need to determine the size, location, and the number of fibroids. This can be done with the help of an ultrasound machine or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) equipment.

Moreover, your gynecologist may also need to run a physical examination through a laparoscopy examination. This test gives a clearer picture of the uterus and the invasive fibroids. You could also have a biopsy of the inner lining of the uterus if you are bleeding excessively in between your periods. The procedure known as endometrium helps rule out cancer as the cause of bleeding.

If you are on any medication, supplements, or herbal remedies, you’ll need to inform the doctor before the procedure. Additionally, make a list of any known allergies, including general and local anesthesia and the dye or contrast materials.

It’s also wise to notify the healthcare team if you have recently suffered an illness, just finished treatment, or are on other medication. For example, if you’re on blood thinners, the healthcare provider may advise you temporarily halt the medication in preparation for the procedure.

Women who suspect they are pregnant should let the doctor know well before the uterine fibroid embolization treatment. Some imaging tests are usually not performed during pregnancy in a bid to minimize any radiation exposure to the fetus. In the case of an imaging test, such as an x-ray, which is essential to the operation, particular care guidelines must be followed to manage and reduce radiation exposure.

While preparing for the procedure, you’ll likely be put off solid meals after midnight to the procedure’s day. While the procedure takes a few hours, the doctor could request to stay overnight for further observation.

 

What Equipment to Expect

 

Since this is a minimally invasive procedure, the tools and equipment used are reasonably common and risk-free. Some of the equipment to be used in uterine fibroid embolization treatment includes a catheter, x-ray machines, and various embolic agents and medications.

The synthetic material used is known as embolic agents and varies in composition and efficacy. The three most common types of embolic agents are;

-Gelfoam whose texture resembles spongy material

-Polyvinyl alcohol, which resembles coarse sand

-Microspheres, which is a polyacrylamide sphere coated with gelatin

These tolls, equipment, and medication are all safe to use during the uterine fibroid embolization treatment.

 

Benefits and Risks Associated with Uterine Embolization Treatment

 

Some of the advantages of uterine fibroid embolization include;

-There’s no need for surgery as the procedure is minimally invasive

-You can resume regular activity sooner and faster

-The procedure is highly effective, boasting well over 90% efficacy rating

-Fibroids rarely regrow after the uterine embolization treatment

-On the other hand, some of the risks that could occur during the procedure are;

-The procedure pierces the skin and could leave an infection if not properly cleaned

-The embolic agents need to be guided carefully, or they could lodge in the wrong area

-Fibroids can lead to chronic pain and an array of other conditions. With uterine embolization treatment, you can now get relief and get back to your healthy self.

 

What To Expect during Uterine Fibroid Embolization Procedure

 

A UFE usually takes between 1 and 3 hours and patients usually require about 6 hours of bed rest after the procedure. Patients may experience mild discomfort as the embolization takes full effect. The fibroid tumors breaking down and exiting the body may cause light bleeding for the few weeks after the procedure. Most patients can expect to return to normal activity 7 to 10 days after the procedure. Our physicians will most likely recommend a follow-up consultation after the UFE 1 to 3 weeks afterward and an ultrasound or MRI 3 to 6 months later to monitor your progress.

“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. 


Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)2022-09-19T19:03:10-07:00

3, 8, 2022

What you need to know about DVT

2022-07-16T18:48:04-07:00

What do Serena Williams, Richard Nixon, Dan Quayle, Dick Cheney and David Bloom have in common? They have all suffered a potentially fatal deep venous thrombosis (DVT).

Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) mainly affects the large veins in the lower leg and thigh. The clot can block blood flow and cause swelling and pain. When a clot breaks off and moves through the bloodstream, this is called an embolism. An embolism can get stuck in the brain, lungs, heart, or another area, leading to severe damage.

Blood clots may form when something slows or changes the flow of blood in the veins. Risk factors include:

  • After a pacemaker catheter has been passed through the vein in the groin
  • Bedrest
  • Cigarette smoking
  • Family history of blood clots
  • Fractures in the pelvis or legs
  • Giving birth within the last 6 months
  • Heart failure
  • Obesity
  • Recent surgery (especially hip, knee, or female pelvic surgery)
  • Too many blood cells being made by the bone marrow (polycythemia vera), causing the blood to be thicker and slower than normal

You’re also more likely to develop DVT if you have any of the following conditions:

  • Blood that is more likely to clot (hypercoagulability)
  • Cancer
  • Taking estrogens or birth control pills.
  • Long airplane flights: London’s Heathrow Airport reports one passenger death a month from DVT. One nearby hospital recorded thirty passenger deaths from DVT in the past three years including a 28-year-old man. To reduce the risk of DVT during air travel,  passengers are advised to wear compression stockings on flights, frequently moving around the cabin and pumping the calf muscles, leg elevation and avoidance of sedentary positions for long periods of time without moving.

If you experience any vein disease symptoms, please call our office at (858)-434-5998 to schedule a consultation with one of our knowledgeable doctors at La Jolla Vein and Vascular. 

 

For more information on vein health please check out our Youtube Channel or visit our helpful guide of resources. 

 

What you need to know about DVT2022-07-16T18:48:04-07:00

19, 7, 2022

What a Duplex Ultrasound can detect

2022-06-25T17:57:32-07:00

Duplex ultrasound combines Doppler flow information and conventional imaging information, sometimes called B-mode, to allow physicians to see the structure of your blood vessels. Duplex ultrasound uses sound waves to get images of your blood vessels. It also helps determine how fast blood moves through the vessels. It can also be useful to estimate the diameter of a blood vessel as well as the amount of obstruction, if any, in the blood vessel. Using duplex ultrasound technology, the structure of your blood vessels, the valve function, the movement of your red blood cells and direction of blood flow through the vessels, and any blockages or blood clots can be seen.

 

Diseases of the blood vessels can affect both veins and arteries.

Vascular refers to the blood vessels in the body. There are two main types of blood vessels; the arteries and veins. Arteries bring oxygen-rich blood from the heart to every inch of the body; vein return the blood back to the heart and lungs for more oxygen. Vascular disease is when the blood vessels are no longer healthy.

Common types of vein disease include:

  • Varicose veins
  • Chronic venous insufficiency
  • Deep venous thrombosis

Common types of artery disease includes:

  • Carotid artery disease and stroke (TIA or Stroke)*
  • Lower extremity arterial disease (PAD)**
  • Upper extremity arterial disease
  • Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)

If you experience any vein disease symptoms, please call our office at (858)-434-5998 to schedule a consultation with one of our knowledgeable doctors at La Jolla Vein and Vascular. 

 

For more information on vein health please check out our Youtube Channel or visit our helpful guide of resources

 

What a Duplex Ultrasound can detect2022-06-25T17:57:32-07:00
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