15, 4, 2024

How do I choose the right vein doctor?

2024-03-26T15:55:59-07:00

Whether you’re seeking treatment for a medical condition or pursuing cosmetic enhancements, selecting the right physician is paramount. When it comes to vein-related issues, such as varicose veins or vascular conditions, making an informed choice can significantly impact your treatment outcomes and overall experience. Here are some essential considerations to keep in mind when choosing a vein doctor:

  1. Specialization in Vascular Conditions:

Opt for a doctor who specializes in vascular conditions. Venous diseases can be intricate, and expertise in this field ensures accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Look for a physician with a wealth of experience in dealing with various vein and vascular issues. Avoid those who merely ‘dabble’ in vein treatments, as specialization typically leads to better outcomes and access to the latest treatment options.

  1. Fellowship Training in Vascular Disease:

Choose a doctor who has undergone fellowship training in vascular disease. While any physician can perform vein procedures, those with additional rigorous training and certification in surgery and vascular specialties are better equipped to address complex issues. Vascular surgeons, in particular, possess comprehensive knowledge and a detailed understanding of vascular problems, making them ideal candidates for vein-related treatments.

  1. Board Certification:

Ensure that the doctor is board-certified. While all physicians must be licensed to practice medicine, board certification indicates a higher level of expertise and specialization in a particular field. For vein treatments, seek out physicians who hold credentials from reputable vascular boards, such as Sarah Lucas, MD, and Nisha Bunke, MD.

  1. Facility Accreditation:

Verify if the vein clinic and vascular diagnostic lab are accredited. Accreditation guarantees the quality of equipment and the expertise of personnel conducting diagnostic studies. Choosing an accredited facility ensures that you receive reliable and high-standard care throughout your treatment process.

  1. Ultrasound Diagnosis by a Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT):

Confirm that ultrasound diagnosis is performed by a Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT). Accurate ultrasound imaging is crucial for diagnosing venous diseases effectively. A skilled vascular sonographer, coupled with a doctor trained to interpret the studies, ensures precise diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.

  1. Comfort Level with the Doctor and Facility:

Lastly, trust your instincts and assess your comfort level with both the doctor and the facility. Establishing a rapport with your provider is essential for effective communication and mutual understanding. Choose a facility that is not only state-of-the-art but also welcoming, with provisions for after-hours support if needed.

In conclusion, selecting a vein doctor requires careful consideration of various factors, ranging from specialization and credentials to facility accreditation and personal comfort. By prioritizing these aspects, you can ensure that you receive optimal care and achieve the best possible outcomes for your vein-related concerns. Take your time, do your research, and make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and preferences. Your vein health deserves nothing less than the highest standard of care.

“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


How do I choose the right vein doctor?2024-03-26T15:55:59-07:00

26, 3, 2024

Could I have a DVT? Learn signs and symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis

2024-03-22T19:57:04-07:00

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition characterized by the formation of blood clots in deep veins, most commonly in the legs. Often, individuals may not experience any symptoms, but when they do manifest, recognizing them promptly is crucial for seeking medical attention and preventing complications. Let’s explore the signs and symptoms of DVT to better understand this condition.

deep vein

Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

  • Leg Pain and Cramping: Pain in the leg, often described as a muscle cramp or sharp pain, especially during walking, can be an early sign of DVT.
  • Sharp Pain in Calf: A sudden, sharp pain in the calf, particularly when standing or walking, may indicate the presence of a blood clot.
  • Red or Discolored Skin: The affected limb may appear red or discolored due to poor blood circulation caused by the clot.
  • Swelling: Swelling in the affected limb, often accompanied by warmth and tenderness, is a common symptom of DVT.
  • Sudden Onset Leg Swelling: A sudden increase in leg swelling, particularly in one leg, without any apparent cause warrants attention.
  • Enlarged Veins: Sometimes, veins in the affected area may become enlarged or more prominent than usual.
  • Increased Warmth: The skin over the affected vein may feel warmer to the touch compared to the surrounding areas.

Signs of Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

If a blood clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs, it can lead to a life-threatening condition known as pulmonary embolism (PE). Signs of PE include:

  • Sudden Breathlessness: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, often sudden in onset, may indicate a pulmonary embolism.
  • Rapid Breathing and Increased Heart Rate: Rapid breathing and a racing heart rate are common symptoms of PE, reflecting the body’s response to reduced oxygen supply.
  • Chest Pain: Chest pain, especially when breathing deeply or coughing, may be sharp and worsen with movement.

Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT)

Superficial vein thrombosis (SVT) is a blood clot that develops in a vein close to the skin’s surface. While less serious than DVT, it still requires attention. Symptoms of SVT may include:

  • Painful Cord-Like Sensation: SVT often feels like a hot, painful cord under the skin.
  • Redness: The overlying skin may appear red or inflamed.

Seeking Treatment for DVT

Prompt diagnosis and treatment of DVT are essential to prevent complications. At La Jolla Vein & Vascular, we offer comprehensive treatment options for DVT, including:

  • Blood Thinners: Anticoagulant medications are commonly used to prevent clots from worsening and reduce the risk of recurrence.
  • Clot Busters: Thrombolytic medications may be prescribed for severe cases or when other treatments are ineffective.
  • Filters: In some cases, a filter may be inserted into a large vein to prevent clots from reaching the lungs.
  • Compression Stockings: These special socks help improve circulation and reduce the risk of swelling and clot formation.

If you experience any symptoms suggestive of DVT or PE, seek medical attention promptly. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and prevent potentially life-threatening complications. Don’t ignore the signs – prioritize your vascular health and well-being.

“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

Could I have a DVT? Learn signs and symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis2024-03-22T19:57:04-07:00

16, 10, 2023

Demystifying vascular disease: understanding its impact on health and well-being

2023-09-29T20:08:25-07:00

Demystifying vascular disease: understanding its impact on health and well-being

Vascular disease is a term that often sounds complex and intimidating, but its impact on your health and well-being can be significant. In this blog post, we aim to demystify vascular disease by breaking down what it means, how it affects your body, and why understanding it is crucial for your overall health. So, let’s unravel the mystery and shed light on this important aspect of your vascular system.

What is Vascular Disease?

At its core, vascular disease refers to a range of conditions that affect the blood vessels in your body. These blood vessels are categorized into two main types: arteries and veins. Arteries carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to every part of your body, while veins return blood back to the heart and lungs for replenishing oxygen.

Common Types of Vascular Disease

Understanding vascular disease involves recognizing its various forms and how they can impact your health. Here are some common types of vascular diseases:

  • Arterial Disease: This includes conditions like Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) and Carotid Artery Disease. PAD, for instance, affects the arteries in your legs, often leading to reduced blood flow and pain in the legs. Carotid artery disease is linked to the arteries in your neck and can increase the risk of stroke.
  • Venous Disease: Venous diseases encompass issues such as Varicose Veins, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), and Chronic Venous Insufficiency. Varicose veins are visibly swollen and twisted veins, while DVT is a blood clot in a deep vein, typically in the legs. Chronic Venous Insufficiency results from weakened valves in the veins, causing blood to pool in the legs.
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA): This condition involves the expansion or ballooning of the abdominal aorta, which can lead to life-threatening complications if it ruptures.

Why Understanding Vascular Disease Matters

Now that we’ve clarified what vascular disease encompasses, let’s delve into why understanding it is essential for your health and well-being:

  • Early Detection and Prevention: Knowledge is power when it comes to vascular disease. Understanding its signs and symptoms allows for early detection and proactive measures to prevent complications. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
  • Risk Factors: Vascular diseases often share common risk factors, such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. By understanding these risk factors, you can take steps to mitigate them and reduce your chances of developing vascular diseases.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Knowing about vascular disease can prompt you to make healthier lifestyle choices. This includes quitting smoking, adopting a regular exercise routine, and maintaining a heart-healthy diet, all of which can improve your vascular health.
  • Treatment Options: Understanding vascular disease opens the door to various treatment options. Depending on the type and severity of the condition, treatments can range from lifestyle changes and medications to minimally invasive procedures and surgery. Being informed empowers you to make informed decisions about your health.
  • Quality of Life: Vascular diseases can significantly impact your quality of life, causing discomfort, pain, and limitations in daily activities. By understanding these conditions, you can seek appropriate treatment and regain control over your well-being.

Demystifying vascular disease is the first step towards taking control of your vascular health. Knowing what vascular disease is, its common types, and why it’s crucial to understand it empowers you to make informed choices about your health. Early detection, prevention, and lifestyle modifications are keys to maintaining a healthy vascular system and overall well-being.

If you have concerns or suspect you may be at risk for vascular disease, don’t hesitate to consult with a healthcare provider. Your vascular health is a vital component of your overall health, and knowledge is the key to ensuring a brighter, healthier future.

“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!

Demystifying vascular disease: understanding its impact on health and well-being2023-09-29T20:08:25-07:00

7, 9, 2023

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

3, 8, 2023

Chronic Pelvic Pain and Vascular Disease

2023-05-24T18:34:40-07:00

What Is Chronic Pelvic Pain?

 

Chronic pelvic pain that occurs because of pelvic venous disease (sometimes referred to as pelvic congestion syndrome) is often felt below the belly button in the pelvis. A number of conditions can cause chronic pelvic pain, including enlarged varicose veins in the ovaries and pelvis. In the pelvis, veins have one-way valves that help keep blood flowing toward your heart. If the valves are weak or damaged, blood can pool in your veins, which causes them to swell. When this happens near the pelvis, it is called pelvic venous disease (PeVD). Women with pelvic venous disease often experience pain during or following intercourse.

Pelvic venous disease usually affects women who have previously been pregnant because the ovarian and pelvic veins widened to accommodate the increased blood flow from the uterus during pregnancy. After the pregnancy, some of these veins remain enlarged and fail to return to their previous size, causing them to weaken, allowing blood to pool.

What are the causes of chronic pelvic pain?

Determining the cause of pelvic pain can be complicated because there are many possibilities:

• Pelvic venous disease (pelvic congestion syndrome)

• Uterine fibroids

• Kidney stones

• Infected appendix

• Endometriosis

• Ovarian cysts

• Other causes

A number of diagnostic tests can be performed through minimally invasive methods to determine whether your chronic pelvic pain is a result of pelvic varicose veins. These tests include:

• Pelvic and transvaginal ultrasound

• Pelvic venogram

• Computed tomography (CT)

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

“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!

 

Chronic Pelvic Pain and Vascular Disease2023-05-24T18:34:40-07:00

19, 6, 2023

Patient Reviews & Testimonials: La Jolla Vein & Vascular

2023-05-24T12:50:52-07:00

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 & Vascular2023-05-24T12:50:52-07:00

Patient Transformation: Spider Veins

2023-02-15T20:42:37-08:00

What are spider veins?

Spider veins are the fine, thread-like reddish veins at the surface of the skin. These veins are not healthy. Veins are often considered a cosmetic issue, but they can be associated with underlying feeder veins, not visible to the naked eye.  Feeder veins are the ‘blue veins’ also known as ‘reticular veins,’ that give rise to spider veins. Spider veins may also be a sign of underlying venous insufficiency. For example, spider veins located in the inner ankles and inner thighs can indicate an underlying problem with the saphenous vein. As a result, an ultrasound examination may be recommended to identify and effectively treat the underlying source of these veins.

What are the symptoms?

Vein conditions affect people differently. For some, these veins can be a painless cosmetic concern, and for others they may cause symptoms. The most common symptoms of spider veins are burning, throbbing, and localized pain. They can also feel hot and itchy and bleed.

What causes them?

Spider veins in the legs are caused by the same condition that causes varicose veins. Leaky vein valves allow blood to pool within the veins causing them to stretch and become enlarged. These veins on other areas of the body, such as the face, and chest can be caused by sun damage, hormone changes or liver disease. Hormones, such as with pregnancy, birth control or hormone replacement therapy can weaken the vein wall.

Below you can see the transformation of 3 of our patients who received vein treatment.

spider veins spider veins 7 BA SV spider 13after fotor 1

“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. 

 

Patient Transformation: Spider Veins2023-02-15T20:42:37-08:00

23, 5, 2023

What is May Thurner Syndrome?

2023-02-15T20:12:37-08:00

Have you had a blood clot in the left leg, or recurrent blood clots without a known cause? Do you notice swelling of the left leg? If so, you may be considered for evaluation of May-Thurner Syndrome, which can be a hidden cause for left leg swelling and DVTs. May-Thurner Syndrome is a condition where the right common iliac artery overlies and compresses the left common iliac vein against the lumbar spine. This causes narrowing of the vein in the pelvic region, sort of like a bottle-neck. The narrowing of the vein makes the blood flow more sluggish and prone to blood clots and leg swelling. This variant has been shown to be present in over 20% of the population.

What Is May-Thurner Syndrome?

The iliac arteries originate from the largest artery in the body, the abdominal aorta. They split at the spine to form the left and right iliac arteries, which feed blood to the pelvis and legs. The right iliac artery is supposed to lie over the left iliac vein, but with this syndrome this artery is compressing the vein. As a result of this compression, the iliac vein narrows and constricts, sometimes scarring. This narrowing results in increased risk of developing blood clots or deep vein thrombosis in that extremity.

Why Do I Have May-Thurner Syndrome?

This condition is congenital but not hereditary and is more common in women than men. It shows up more frequently in young women taking birth control medication, as women age or as they gain weight. Many people may be unaware that they have this disorder, because many may only have some degree of compression of the iliac vein. Only a small number of individuals have severe compression of the iliac vein, resulting in symptoms, namely blood clots in the deep veins of the leg.

How Is May-Thurner Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is achieved by a combination of physical examination and diagnostic testing. Diagnosis may also occur when patients present with symptoms of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT- please see this section of venous conditions) and further testing is completed.

Tests to confirm diagnosis include:

What Are My Treatment Options for May-Thurner Syndrome?

The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms as well as reduce the risk of further complications.

  • Anticoagulant therapy: These medications thin your blood and prevent the current clot from increasing in size, as well as prevent new clots from forming. These medications do not dissolve the clots that you have. You may be on IV heparin for several days or an injection called Lovenox that is given in the abdomen once daily for 5 to 7 days. You will be started on a medication called warfarin (Coumadin), which is an anticoagulant pill. It can take about 3 days for this medication to have effect, so during that time you may be on both warfarin and heparin. You may be on this medication for up to 6 months, during which time routine blood tests are required to ensure your blood is at the appropriate thinness to prevent clots from forming.
  • Catheter-directed Thrombolytic Therapy: During this procedure, a thin flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a puncture in the skin and guided into the affected blood vessel of the lung. A thrombolytic drug is injected which dissolves the clot over a period of time. There is a much higher risk of bleeding as well as stroke with this therapy, compared to anticoagulants.
  • Angioplasty and stenting: Once the clot has been removed from the vein, this procedure is performed to widen the compressed vein. A thin flexible tube called a catheter is inserted in a puncture over a vein in the leg. A small balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated to stretch the iliac vein open, increasing blood flow to the leg. A small metal mesh tube called a stent is inserted through the catheter and guided to the ballooned area of the iliac vein. The stent will help hold the compressed area open and will remain in the vein permanently.
  • Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) filter: During this procedure, a thin flexible tube called a catheter is inserted through a vein in your leg, arm, or neck. The vascular surgeon passes a small special metal filter through the catheter and places it in the inferior vena cava, which is a large vein in your abdomen that carries blood back to the lungs. This filter traps clots that break away from leg veins, preventing them from traveling to your lungs. This is done if the patient cannot tolerate anticoagulation therapy.

“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. 


What is May Thurner Syndrome?2023-02-15T20:12:37-08:00

Have you been experiencing leg pain?

2023-02-15T19:59:01-08:00

Concerned about Leg Pain?

We evaluate and treat leg pain that is related to poor circulation, varicose veins and blood clots. These are all vascular conditions. However, there are numerous causes of non-vascular leg pain including injuries in the joints, bones, muscles or ligaments. Arthritis can also cause leg pain. Low back pain can radiate to the legs and also cause pain. It is always important to have a thorough evaluation by your doctor to determine the correct cause.

  1. Blood Clots: 

Leg pain caused by blood clots can vary in how it presents. Not all blood clots will cause pain. Blood clots in the deep veins, called deep vein thrombosis, (DVT) can cause a sudden onset of swelling in the leg, pain, and sometimes redness and warmth. It usually affects one leg instead of both. It may be difficult to walk.  A blood clot in a superficial vein, called superficial vein thrombosis, often occurs in a varicose vein. The vein can feel hard, painful, lumpy, or you may feel a rope-like knot just beneath the skin. The skin may appear red and hot.

 

  1. Venous Reflux Disease:

Leg pain caused by venous reflux disease often presents as leg pain, heaviness, fatigue, that tends to get worse throughout the day and with standing. It may be worse in hot weather. Women may experience worsening symptoms during menstruation from hormonal influence. Night-time symptoms of leg cramping and restlessness are common. There may or may not be visible signs of venous disease, as venous reflux usually starts in veins that are not visible to the naked eye before becoming visibly apparent. Signs of vein disease include varicose veins (bulging, twisted, enlarged veins and the surface of the skin), spider veins, ankle swelling, and long term venous reflux, called chronic venous insufficiency can cause the skin to darken around the ankles and ulcerate.

  1. PAD

Poor arterial circulation in the legs is referred to as peripheral arterial disease (PAD). PAD has a different presentation than venous disease. Leg pain is often with walking and can cause cramping most frequently in the calf muscles but also can occur in the thighs or buttocks. The cramping stops usually with rest. Signs may include poor perfusion to the toes causing paleness and thickened toe-nails. Pulses at the feet may be absent.

“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. 


Have you been experiencing leg pain?2023-02-15T19:59:01-08:00

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
Go to Top