Blog

Introducing the Zenith Fenestrated Graft

We’re thrilled to introduce you to the latest FDA-approved treatment technology for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA): the Zenith Fenestrated Graft. If you’re unaware of this condition, an AAA occurs when the walls of the abdominal portion of the aorta (the main blood vessel that delivers blood to your body) weaken and begin to bulge. Our new graft allows us to line the inner walls of the aorta to give the blood a new, reinforced path that doesn’t put pressure on the aneurysm and significantly reduces the risk of a rupture. The main benefit of the Zenith Fenestrated Graft is its
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Understanding Thrombectomy and Embolectomy

Thrombectomy and embolectomy are life-saving procedures mostly performed in emergency situations. The terms embolectomy and thrombectomy are sometimes used interchangeably, but there are some differences between the two. To understand how a thrombectomy or embolectomy is performed, you must first understand why they are done. Sometimes, due to various factors like disease, blood clots can form in the blood vessels. A thrombus is usually a solid-mass stationary clot. An embolus is when part or all of that clot is dislodged and begins to travel through the circulatory system. Essentially, an embolus is a moving thrombus. These clots can pose serious
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Understanding Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

What is an abdominal aortic aneurysm? An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) occurs when the lower part of the abdominal aorta becomes swollen and enlarged. In many cases, AAA will display no symptoms, making it a potentially dangerous condition if left untreated. The abdominal aorta is the largest artery, and it supplies oxygen-rich blood to the lower part of the body. If a weak area of the abdominal aorta expands or bulges, it can burst, causing severe internal bleeding and death. Immediate medical attention is crucial during this time. How serious is an abdominal aortic aneurysm? The small or slower-growing aneurysms
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Top 10 Heart-Healthy Foods

Many things can contribute to good vascular health, but a key factor is what you put into your body. The food you eat can greatly affect the way your heart works. Since your heart is one of the most important organs in your body, it’s best you feed it only the finest. Omega-3 Fatty Acids We all know that too much fat is bad for you, but there are good fats out there that your body needs. Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fats that help improve heart function. They regulate blood clotting, reduce cholesterol and blood pressure levels, and prevent inflammation. Omega-3s
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The Facts About Carotid Artery Disease

The carotid arteries are the two large blood vessels that extend down your neck and provide necessary blood to the head and brain. Carotid artery disease begins when a buildup of plaque narrows the artery, causing a decrease of blood flow to the brain. The plaque initially has a wax-like consistency and can harden over time, making it hard for blood to run through the vessel. This hardened plaque can break off and cause clots, or travel to smaller arteries. The plaques can also buildup until there is a complete blockage in the artery. In either case, a stroke or
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Don’t Take a Chance with Your Health: Attend Our Free Peripheral Artery Disease Screening on March 20th!

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is when large and medium-sized peripheral arteries — which supply blood to the head, organs and limbs — become narrow or clogged and restrict blood flow. PAD is dangerous and potentially deadly. Most often found in the legs, PAD is caused by the buildup of plaque (atherosclerosis). It can cause pain, disability, organ failure and other serious consequences to lifestyle and health — even death. Also, atherosclerosis in the peripheral arteries is often accompanied by the same problem in the coronary arteries, which is heart disease. If you’re at risk, get screened for PAD! PAD on
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Exercise Can Help Improve Your Vascular Health

We all know exercise is paramount in a healthy lifestyle. Most of us believe that it will tone our bodies, keep our weight down, and make us stronger; but did you know it can also improve your vascular health? What is Vascular Health? Vascular health is about strengthening your heart and lungs so they perform at their optimal levels. After the age of 55 we are naturally at a higher risk for heart attacks, strokes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and peripheral artery disease (P.A.D.). When we live a sedentary life, these problems become even more of a risk. Obesity
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Peripheral Artery Disease Can Be a Silent Killer. Attend Our Free Screening on Feb. 6 to Learn if You Are at Risk.

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is when large and medium-sized peripheral arteries — which supply blood to the head, organs and limbs — become narrow or clogged and restrict blood flow. PAD is dangerous and potentially deadly. Most often found in the legs, PAD is caused by the buildup of plaque (atherosclerosis). It can cause pain, disability, organ failure and other serious consequences to lifestyle and health — even death. Also, atherosclerosis in the peripheral arteries is often accompanied by the same problem in the coronary arteries, which is heart disease. If you’re at risk, get screened for PAD! PAD on
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FREE Vascular Screenings in January, February and March

Find out if you’re at risk for heart or vascular disease! Today, Vascular Specialty Center’s Dr. Andrew J. Olinde appeared on WBRZ-TV to discuss Baton Rouge General’s upcoming vascular screening events. Consisting of noninvasive ultrasound evaluation of the carotid artery, the screening involves looking for the formation of plaque, which correlates to plaque buildup in the coronary arteries, which is heart disease. Screening, which is completely free, will help Dr. Olinde and his team identify risk factors for heart disease. Screening events take place at Baton Rouge General’s Bluebonnet campus on January 22, 2015 February 26, 2015 March 26, 2015
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