Vascular Treatments
In addition to lifestyle modifications and medications, Loyola offers a range of treatments for vascular disease, including: Carotid Endarterectomy
Carotid endarterectomy, or revascularization, is an operation to remove the inner lining of your carotid artery if it has become thickened or blocked. The procedure involves opening the artery and removing the blockage of plaque. This usually occurs under general anesthesia in the operating room; hospitalization may last two to five days following the surgery.
Endovascular Repair
Endovascular repair was approved by the Food & Drug Administration in 1999. The treatment is recommended for patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms. It is a minimally invasive procedure that requires two small incisions in the groin area. The aneurysm is relined with a graft. The average hospital stay is two to three days with total recovery time of approximately one to two weeks. The procedure requires diligent annual follow-ups on the part of the patient. Long-term success has yet to be established.
Phlebectomy
Phlebectomy typically is performed in conjunction with varicose vein ablation to help close up the vein. It is done in the office under local anesthesia.
Renal Artery Angioplasty and Stenting
The first line of treatment for renal artery stenosis is balloon dilatation and stent placement. These procedures are similar to balloon angioplasty and stents in the heart. A small tube is inserted into the artery near the groin area. From this tube, blockages can be treated with a balloon and/or a stent. The balloon is inflated, which stretches the narrowed artery, then the stent is placed to keep the artery open. This does not require general anesthesia, and patients usually return home the following day.
Traditional/Open Surgery
Traditional or open surgery often is the recommended treatment for abdominal aortic aneurysm or severe cases of renal artery stenosis. The surgery is done through a large incision in the abdomen or side to open the aneurysm and implant a graft. Patients are typically hospitalized for one week and total recovery time takes approximately one to three months. This type of surgery has been proven effective in long-term studies.
Varicose Vein Ablation
Varicose vein ablation or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) offers a less invasive alternative to standard surgery. Ablation procedures use heat energy from either radio waves or a laser source to seal the afflicted vein. Ablation uses a catheter, or small tube, which is inserted through a small nick in the skin. The laser or radiofrequency energy is delivered through the catheter; this heats and seals the vein. Only local anesthesia is required. Treatment may last about two hours. Depending on the severity of the varicose veins, treatment may be performed on each leg at separate appointments.
Location
Contact Us
For an appointment or for more information about Vascular Treatments
, call (888) LUHS-888.