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Category: Aneurysm

Endovascular surgery

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Endovascular surgery, also known as endovascular therapy or intervention, is a minimally invasive procedure performed to treat various conditions within blood vessels, typically in the arteries and veins. Unlike traditional open surgery, which requires large incisions, endovascular surgery involves accessing the affected blood vessels through small punctures or incisions.

What conditions do healthcare providers treat with endovascular surgery?

Atherosclerosis:

It is a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque within the arteries, narrowing the vessel and obstructing blood flow. Endovascular procedures like angioplasty and stenting can be performed to open up the blocked or narrowed arteries and restore blood flow.

Aneurysms:

An aneurysm is a weakened area in the blood vessel wall that bulges or balloons out. Endovascular techniques, such as endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) or endovascular coiling, can be used to reinforce the weakened vessel wall or fill the aneurysm with coils to prevent rupture.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD):

PAD occurs when arteries supplying blood to the limbs (usually the legs) become narrowed or blocked. Endovascular procedures like angioplasty, atherectomy, or stenting can be performed to improve blood flow and relieve symptoms.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT):

DVT is the formation of blood clots in the deep veins, typically in the legs. Endovascular techniques, such as catheter-directed thrombolysis or thrombectomy, can be used to dissolve or remove the blood clot and restore normal blood flow.

Varicose veins:

Endovascular treatments like endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) can be used to close off and seal malfunctioning varicose veins, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins.

Endovascular surgery offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, including smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and fewer complications. However, not all conditions can be treated using endovascular techniques, and the suitability of the procedure depends on the specific case and the patient’s overall health. It is essential to consult with a vascular surgeon to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

How common is vascular disease?

According to recent data, there are approximately 200 million people affected by peripheral artery disease (PAD), one of the most common types of vascular disease. In the United States alone, PAD affects around 8 to 12 million people, with the incidence rising with age. Additionally, another prevalent vascular condition is deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which affects an estimated 900,000 individuals in the United States annually. When it comes to aortic aneurysms, statistics indicate that around 1.5 million people worldwide are living with this condition, with men over the age of 65 being particularly susceptible. These numbers show how common vascular disease is and emphasize the importance of awareness, early detection, and timely treatment to improve patient outcomes.

What happens before endovascular surgery?

During an endovascular procedure, a vascular surgeon uses imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound, to navigate thin, flexible catheters and medical instruments through the blood vessels to the targeted site. These instruments can be used for diagnostic purposes, as well as for therapeutic interventions.

What happens after endovascular surgery?

After your endovascular surgery, it’s important to continue with follow-up care to ensure your blood vessels heal properly. Before you leave the hospital, your healthcare provider will discuss your post-surgical plan with you. This plan includes regular visits to see your healthcare provider and undergo imaging tests. These visits are designed to check how your blood vessels are healing. Your healthcare provider will review the results of the imaging tests to make sure everything is progressing well. By following through with these follow-up visits and tests, you and your healthcare team can keep a close eye on your recovery and address any issues that may arise, leading to a successful outcome after your endovascular surgery.

Why do I need a vascular surgeon?

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Why do I need a vascular surgeon?

 

Vascular Disease:

If you have been diagnosed with vascular diseases such as peripheral artery disease (PAD), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), varicose veins, aneurysms, or carotid artery disease, a vascular surgeon specializes in the treatment of these conditions.

Circulation Problems:

If you experience symptoms related to poor blood circulation, such as leg pain or cramping during walking or at rest, non-healing wounds or ulcers, or coldness in your extremities, a vascular surgeon can evaluate and provide appropriate treatment options.

Vascular Trauma:

In cases of traumatic injuries that involve blood vessels, such as a severe laceration or damage to arteries or veins, a vascular surgeon can perform surgical procedures to repair and restore blood flow.

Aortic Aneurysm:

If you have an abdominal or thoracic aortic aneurysm, which is a weakened and bulging area in the aorta, the main blood vessel in your body, a vascular surgeon may perform surgery to repair or replace the affected segment to prevent the risk of rupture.

Endovascular Procedures:

Vascular surgeons are trained in minimally invasive endovascular techniques, such as angioplasty, stenting, and embolization, to treat various vascular conditions. These procedures involve using catheters and imaging guidance to access and treat the affected blood vessels from within.

Vascular Access:

If you require long-term dialysis, a vascular surgeon can create and manage vascular access points, such as arteriovenous fistulas or grafts, to allow repeated access to your blood vessels.

With many years of extensive vascular experience, Western Vascular Institute’s providers are able to provide unparalleled diagnosis & management for all venous & vascular diseases as well as exceptional patient care.

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What is Vascular Surgery?

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What is Vascular Surgery?

Vascular surgery is a surgical specialty that deals with diseases of the blood vessels. It is a relatively new specialty, having been founded in the early 1970s. The first residency program was started at the University of Minnesota in 1973.

The specialty of vascular surgery is divided into two main branches: open surgery and endovascular surgery.

Open surgery is the traditional form of surgery, where the surgeon makes a large incision in the patient’s body in order to access the blood vessels. Endovascular surgery is a newer form of surgery that uses tiny instruments and a camera to access the blood vessels through small incisions.

Vascular surgery is a highly specialized field, and there are only a few hundred surgeons in the United States who specialize in it. The majority of vascular surgeons are based in large metropolitan areas, and there are few rural areas that have vascular surgeons.

 Treating a variety of diseases and conditions, including:

Vascular surgery is a life-saving procedure in many cases. For example, an aortic aneurysm is a life-threatening condition that can lead to a ruptured aorta. If the aneurysm is detected early, it can be treated with surgery. It is a highly specialized field, and patients should seek out a vascular surgeon who is experienced in treating the specific condition that they have.

The Joint Commission

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The Joint Commission Certification

The Joint Commission, also known as TJC, is an independent, non-profit organization in the United States that accredits and certifies healthcare organizations and programs. It was founded in 1951 and is recognized as a leader in setting quality and safety standards for healthcare.

The goal of The Joint Commission:

The primary goal of The Joint Commission is to improve the quality and safety of patient care. They achieve this by establishing rigorous standards and conducting thorough evaluations of healthcare organizations to ensure compliance. Accreditation by The Joint Commission is voluntary but highly valued and widely recognized as a mark of quality in the healthcare industry.

The accreditation process:

The accreditation process involves an in-depth review of various aspects of an organization’s operations, including patient care, infection control, medication management, leadership, and performance improvement. Surveyors from The Joint Commission visit healthcare facilities to assess compliance with the standards. If an organization meets the standards, they are awarded accreditation, which is typically valid for a specific period.

The Joint Commission certification:

In addition to accreditation, The Joint Commission offers various certification programs for specific areas of healthcare, such as disease-specific care, primary stroke centers, and advanced certification in healthcare quality.

The Joint Commission & Patient Saftey:

The Joint Commission plays a crucial role in promoting patient safety and quality improvement in healthcare organizations. Their standards and accreditation process help organizations identify areas for improvement, implement evidence-based practices, and continuously enhance the quality of care provided to patients.

It’s important to note that while The Joint Commission sets standards and evaluates healthcare organizations, they do not have regulatory authority. Their focus is on voluntary accreditation and continuous improvement rather than enforcing compliance through legal means.

Western Vascular Institute is a Joint Commission Accredited vascular-surgery-center garnering the gold seal of approval. These certifications demonstrate a higher level of expertise and specialization in particular areas of care.

Vascular Ultrasound

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Vascular ultrasound

Vascular ultrasound, also known as duplex ultrasonography or Doppler ultrasound, is a non-invasive imaging technique used to evaluate blood vessels and blood flow in the body.

During this study, a small handheld device called a transducer is used to emit high-frequency sound waves into the body. These sound waves bounce back off the blood vessels and are detected by the transducer, which converts them into images that can be viewed on a monitor.

Vascular ultrasound is commonly used to diagnose and monitor various vascular conditions, including:

 

Peripheral artery disease (PAD):

Evaluating blood flow and detecting blockages or narrowing in the arteries of the legs, arms, or neck.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT):

Detecting blood clots in the deep veins, usually in the legs.

Carotid artery disease:

Assessing the carotid arteries in the neck to detect plaques or other abnormalities that may increase the risk of stroke.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA):

Evaluating the aorta in the abdomen for the presence of an abnormal bulge or enlargement that could potentially rupture.

Venous insufficiency:

Assessing the veins and valves in the legs to identify valve dysfunction or venous reflux, which can lead to conditions like varicose veins.

Vascular ultrasound is a safe and painless procedure that does not involve radiation. It provides real-time images and can be used to measure blood flow velocity and direction using the Doppler effect, which allows the assessment of blood flow characteristics such as speed and turbulence.

The results of a vascular ultrasound can help vascular surgeons make accurate diagnoses, develop appropriate treatment plans, and monitor the effectiveness of interventions over time.

Introducing Dr. David J. Paolini

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Dr. David J. Paolini vascular surgeon in Arizona.
Dr. David J. Paolini Vascular Surgeon with Western Vascular Institute. Board Certified Vascular Surgeon

Dr. David Paolini is a Vascular Surgeon with over 15 years of Vascular Surgery experience.  Dr. Paolini recently joined Western Vascular Institute as one of our acclaimed vascular surgeons from the Jobst vascular center in Toledo, Ohio. Dr. Paolini has had a passion for medicine and physics from a young age, feeling that Vascular Surgery is the perfect combination of the two scientific areas. Dr. Paolini completed his medical school training from Temple University (One of the best Medical Schools in the united states) in 1999 and after that moved to New Mexico to begin his residency at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center Department of Surgery. After completing a 5-year surgical residency Dr. Paolini then moved to Toledo, Ohio to complete a Vascular Surgery specific fellowship at the prestigious Jobst Vascular Center. Dr. Paolini quickly gained accolades as one of the most innovative and competent vascular surgeons in the area as well as being heavily invested in Vascular Surgery research and publications. Dr. Paolini’s care philosophy is “ to take care of patients like you would want your kids’ taken care of ”. As a father of two wonderful children and supported by his beautiful wife Dr. Paolini is poised to join the ranks of the great caring vascular surgeons here at Western Vascular Institute. Dr. Paolini’s previous patients have described dr. Paolini as being kind, compassionate, & honest. We are excited to have Dr. Paolini as part Western Vascular Institute. Dr. Paolini is now accepting new patients in the Mesa and Payson office locations. For an appointment with Dr. Paolini please contact one of our new patient coordinators at (480) 668-5000 ext. 332