Treatment for: Peripheral Artery Disease, Deep Vein Disease, Varicose Veins
Procedures offered: Angioplasty (with or without stent), Atherectomy, Thrombolysis, Varicose Vein RF Ablation
Angioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure performed to open the narrowed artery to improve blood flow. In some cases, a vascular stent may be used to keep the artery open.
During an angioplasty procedure, imaging is used to guide a catheter (a very small plastic tube) into an artery and advance it to where the blood vessel is narrow or blocked. A special balloon is inflated to open the vessel. Once the vessel is open, the balloon is deflated and removed.
In some cases, a small wire mesh (called a stent) may be permanently placed in the newly opened artery to help keep it open and blood flowing normally.
Atherectomy is an alternative to angioplasty. It is a technique for removing plaque from the wall of the blood vessel using a catheter fitted with a sharp blade or burring device. The cleared plaque is then drawn into the catheter and out of the body.
Catheter-directed thrombolysis is a minimally invasive procedure to treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A special drug is released into the vein via a catheter to dissolve the clot and restore blood flow. DVT has been shown to break down blood clots more effectively than anticoagulation medicine
For patients with varicose veins, NSVI offers a minimally invasive alternative to surgical vein stripping. Radiofrequency ablation uses heat to seal off the diseased varicose vein, causing it to shrink and be absorbed by the body. The blood is re-routed naturally through other, healthy veins.
Vascular Condition Treatment Preparation Instructions
- Please inform us of all medications that you are taking, including herbal supplements, and if you have any allergies, especially to local anesthetic, medications or to contrast (also known as “x-ray dye”).
- You may be advised to stop taking aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Tylenol, Advil) or a blood thinning medication for a period of time before your procedure.
- Please inform us about recent illnesses or other medical conditions.
- Women who are or may be pregnant should inform us immediately. Many imaging tests such as x-ray are not performed during pregnancy so as not to expose the fetus to radiation.
- Unless otherwise instructed, you may take your usual medications, especially blood pressure medications. These may be taken with some water in the morning before your procedure.
- You may be instructed to refrain from eating or drinking anything for several hours before your procedure.
- You may need to remain for a period of observation after your procedure.
- You will be given a gown to change into before your procedure.
FAQ for Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is when the arteries supplying blood to your legs become narrowed or blocked due to fatty deposits. This reduced blood flow can lead to leg pain, cramping, and other symptoms. If you’re concerned about PAD, our experts at North Star Vascular and Interventional are here to help with personalized care and advanced treatments.
Symptoms of PAD include leg pain or cramping during activities like walking or climbing stairs, numbness or weakness in the legs, coldness in the lower leg or foot, and sores on the toes, feet, or legs that heal slowly. If you’re noticing these symptoms, it might be time to get checked out. We can provide effective treatments to help you get back to your daily activities without discomfort.
Risk factors for PAD include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and age (especially over 50). If you have any of these risk factors, it’s a good idea to get screened for PAD. Our clinic offers comprehensive screenings and can guide you through the next steps if PAD is detected.
PAD screening includes tests like the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) test, Doppler ultrasound, and angiography. These tests help detect PAD early, allowing for timely treatment. If you think you’re at risk, our clinic can perform these screenings and provide you with a clear diagnosis and treatment plan.
PAD can’t be completely reversed, but its progression can be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, and medical treatments. Our team can help you quit smoking, start an exercise routine, and manage your diet to keep PAD in check. We offer support every step of the way to ensure you stay healthy and active.
PAD treatment aims to reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and prevent complications. This includes lifestyle changes, medications, and medical procedures like angioplasty, stenting, and bypass surgery. Our providers are experienced in these treatments and can help you find the best approach for your situation.
Most insurance plans cover PAD treatments, including diagnostic tests, medications, and procedures. We can assist in verifying your coverage and discussing payment options. Our goal is to make sure you get the treatment you need without financial stress.
Yes, PAD can lead to neuropathy, causing pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in your limbs. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, our specialists can help diagnose and treat the underlying PAD to alleviate your discomfort.
To manage PAD, quit smoking, eat a healthy diet, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and manage stress. Our team can provide you with a personalized plan and support to make these changes easier and more effective.
Medications for PAD include antiplatelet agents, cholesterol-lowering drugs, blood pressure medications, and medications to manage blood sugar levels. Our providers will prescribe the right medications to help manage your PAD and improve your quality of life.
Exercise, especially walking, can improve symptoms of PAD by increasing blood flow to your limbs and reducing pain. Our clinic offers supervised exercise programs to help you get started and stay motivated.
Untreated PAD can lead to serious complications like critical limb ischemia, non-healing wounds, infections, and gangrene. Severe cases may require amputation. By getting treated at our clinic, you can avoid these complications and improve your overall health.
If you experience leg pain during walking, numbness or weakness in your legs, or non-healing sores on your feet or legs, it’s time to see a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve your quality of life. Our experts are ready to help you get the care you need.
Yes, PAD can affect other arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Managing PAD with our help can reduce these risks and improve your overall cardiovascular health.