Archives for Peripheral Artery Disease

Average Carotid Artery Surgery Recovery Time

If you are scheduled to undergo carotid artery surgery, it is likely being performed to clear a blockage that’s causing the artery to narrow. Once cleared, proper blood flow to your brain is restored. The surgery lasts a few hours, but after that, what can you expect in terms of recovery time? At Baton Rouge Vascular Specialty Center, we perform surgeries based on your unique treatment plan, then map your recovery according to your individual goals, health and lifestyle. However, there are some general timelines for carotid artery surgery recovery we can share. Average carotid artery recovery time After surgery, most
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Peripheral Angioplasty and Stenting

Peripheral angioplasty is a nonsurgical procedure used to widen or reopen narrowed or obstructed peripheral arteries or veins. Some of these angioplasty procedures will utilize stent (a small, wire mesh tube) placement as a supplemental treatment option that can be done during angioplasty. Benefits of angioplasty and stenting Peripheral angioplasty and stenting are procedures that can significantly reduce the risks associated with plaque buildup in the arteries and veins, especially in severe cases of atherosclerosis. These benefits can include: Decreasing signs and symptoms of blocked arteries and veins Significantly reducing chances of death or damage to the valves as the
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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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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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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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How Do You Know If You Have Peripheral Artery Disease?

Peripheral artery disease affects numerous individuals in the Baton Rouge, Louisiana area. 1 in 20 Americans over 50 has P.A.D. and you may not even know you have it. This disease occurs when arteries become constricted, causing reduced blood flow to your extremities, especially the legs. Losing blood flow to these areas can cause pain and slowed movement. It can also indicate a large problem in which fatty deposits are blocking your arteries, which can affect other areas besides the extremities. Your heart and brain can be damaged if this disease goes untreated. Fortunately, there are steps you can take
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