VENOUS DISEASE – Peak Vascular

VENOUS STASIS DISEASE (CVI)

What is it?

Shallow (“superficial”) veins of the legs return blood to the body by passive blood flow through one-way valves. These valves may become damaged and “leak”, allowing blood to flow backwards
As pressure builds in the vein it expands, resulting in Varicose Veins and Spider Veins
Increase in venous pressures causes fluid to leak out, resulting in leg swelling
Blood pooling can cause pigments in the blood to stain the skin, giving it a dark appearance
The pressure building under the skin can cause Venous Stasis Ulcers, typically on the inner ankle and difficult to heal without treatment.

What are the symptoms?

Leg pain, heaviness, and fatigue, worse with prolonged standing or after walking and improved with leg elevation
Restless legs, unexplained itching
Leg swelling (edema)
Varicose veins - may become painful and tender
Dark discoloration and thickening of skin in lower leg
Ulcers of the lower leg and ankle

What are risk factors for venous insufficiency and varicose veins?

How is Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI) diagnosed?

How is CVI Treated?

MAY-THURNER SYNDROME

The anatomy of arteries and veins in the pelvis can result in compression of a vein by the nearby artery. In May-Thurner Syndrome, the Left Iliac Vein is compressed between the adjacent artery and the spine, damaging and narrowing the vein.

Symptoms:
• Left leg pain and swelling
• Pain in pelvis or groin
• Sudden blood clot development can
cause sudden left pain and swelling

Diagnosis:
• Evaluation by a vascular specialist
• May be identified on ultrasound
• Often best seen on CT venogram

Treatment:
• Venogram is performed by placing a catheter through a vein in the upper leg and injecting x-ray dye (contrast)
• An ultrasound catheter is used inside the vein to obtain measurements
• A stent is placed to open the vein and restore blood return from the left leg to the heart

Request an Evaluation

If you are experiencing symptoms of PAD or are concerned about your vascular health,

[Request an Evaluation] to schedule an appointment. Early detection and treatment are key to managing PAD and

preventing further complications.