Three Types of Imaging Used in Vascular Care

Vascular imaging allows doctors to use advanced technology for diagnosing and assessing conditions of your blood vessels. In some cases, medical imaging may also assist in minimally invasive procedures, equipping providers to perform procedures with less risk, reduced pain, and shorter recovery times, compared to traditional surgery.

There are many important applications for imaging in vascular care. Here’s a look into just a few of the most common ways vascular imaging is utilized.

Duplex Ultrasound Technology

A duplex ultrasound combines a traditional ultrasound — which targets sound waves to bounce from blood vessels then captures images — with Doppler ultrasound, which records sound waves to measure blood flow. This imaging can be used in the extremities to look for the presence of either deep or superficial venous thrombosis, as well as varicose veins and venous reflux disease. Duplex ultrasounds can also be used to assess blood vessels in the neck (including the carotid artery), as well as the abdomen.

In some cases, venous specialists may also use traditional ultrasounds to perform vein mapping, which creates a “roadmap” of your veins to guide medical procedures.

Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)

Computed tomography angiography (CTA) blends traditional CT scans, which are a type of X ray that creates cross-sectional images using a computer, with a specially-formulated dye in order to create pictures of blood vessels. Also known as contrast material, the dye is injected through an intravenous line. This liquid material allows blood vessels to be seen with ease during the imaging.

CTA is widely used in vascular care to look for a range of conditions. For example, it may help identify an aneurysm, or give a clear view of vessels affected by atherosclerosis, which is narrowing caused by fatty deposits in the artery walls. Doctors may also use CTA to determine if your blood vessels have been damaged by an injury, or to look for blood clots that originally formed in your leg but may have traveled into your lungs.

Magnetic Resonance Angiogram (MRA)

A magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA) utilizes magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI. Whereas traditional angiography involves the placement of a catheter, MRA is far less invasive. This technology uses magnetic fields and radio waves to capture images of the blood vessels, as well as a contrast dye. 

“An MRA is very helpful in many cases,” explains Dr. Lalani, “including investigating for an aneurysm, signs of a stroke, atherosclerosis, heart disease, aortic coarctation, or aortic dissection.” 

Which Imaging Test Will You Receive?

Doctors base their decisions for which imaging type to use on a number of factors, including the patient’s symptoms and health history. For example, the dye in MRA testing involves gadolinium-based contrast, which is less likely to cause an allergic reaction in patients who may experience an issue with the iodine-based contrast used in CTA. But if your doctor needs a closer look at calcium deposits in the blood vessels, a CTA may be necessary, as MRA cannot detect those.

Whichever imaging test you may require, at Vascular Surgical Associates, our accredited vascular lab has advanced imaging technology, along with highly trained staff to diagnose and assess venous conditions with precision. Request a consultation with us through our website, or call (770) 423-0595.

Cosmetic veins can occur in many places, most often on the legs and areas of the face. Though medically harmless in most cases, some patients become self-conscious about their appearance as a result. 

The good news is that wherever you’re experiencing cosmetic vein issues, they can usually be removed.

Types of Cosmetic Veins

Varicose and spider veins are the two main types of visible leg veins that can cause discomfort and embarrassment. Both are considered damaged veins, but they’re not always harmful. In some cases, having varicose veins could increase your risk of developing blood clots or other complications, but often they are largely cosmetic issues.

Both vein issues are most likely to develop in the lower limbs, because the veins there have to work the hardest against gravity and transport the blood the greatest distance to get to the heart.

“Several different factors can play a role in the development of varicose and spider veins,” asserts Dr. Lagergren, “including genetics, long periods of standing or sitting, obesity, and hormone changes.”

Visible veins in the nose, chin, and cheeks are another type of cosmetic vein issue some wish to have repaired. Excessive sun exposure or alcohol consumption, rosacea, pregnancy and injury are a few factors that may contribute to their appearance, but like varicose and spider veins, genetics and other factors can also play a role. 

How Are Cosmetic Veins Treated?

Vein issues should always be treated if they’re causing pain while walking or standing, hemorrhaging, or forming blood clots or ulcers. But pursuing treatment for cosmetic reasons could also still enhance your quality of life by making you feel more confident.

In some cases, lifestyle changes may help to control the appearance of mild spider or varicose veins.

For example, you could try wearing compression stockings, losing weight if needed, avoiding long periods of sitting or standing, and exercising regularly.

Some studies have also shown that the topical application of apple cider vinegar can decrease symptoms for those looking for an easy home treatment. 

For veins that persist despite lifestyle changes or are more severe in appearance, there are several other treatment options available.

• Sclerotherapy: In this noninvasive treatment, a thin needle injects a solution into the veins to slowly reduce their appearance over a period of several weeks.
• Cosmetic Laser: If you have small spider veins that are too narrow to be injected with a needle, this therapy can still reduce their appearance by directing a laser light at the vein. This can destroy the vein, causing it to disappear, without affecting your skin, and is particularly useful for facial veins.
• Endovenous Laser Therapy: In this ultrasound-guided procedure, laser energy is targeted to the affected vein to close it. The process is minimally invasive and takes 20 to 30 minutes.
• Radiofrequency Closure: This treatment is similar to endovenous laser therapy, but it uses radiofrequency energy delivered via catheter to seal the vein. It, too, takes 20 to 30 minutes and is minimally invasive.

Rarely, surgery may be needed to remove problem veins. In this treatment, small incisions are made to remove the affected veins.

Whether your varicose or spider veins are a physical or cosmetic issue (or both), we can eliminate them. Talk to one of our specialists about the best option for addressing your cosmetic vein issues. Learn more about our locations and services online, or schedule an appointment by calling (770) 423-0595.  

Many people set New Year’s resolutions related to weight loss, exercise, and eating well, but if you’re looking for a health-related goal that can still deliver major wellness perks, consider your vein health.

Your veins play one of the most important roles in keeping you alive by carrying blood to the heart. In fact, 75% of the blood in your body is located within this intricate vascular network. Keeping your veins healthy is therefore an excellent way to boost your overall wellness. Moreover, many of the steps you can take to strengthen your veins also overlap with other common health resolutions. Here are a few ways you can improve your vein health through the new year and beyond.

1. Don’t Smoke

We’ve long known about the harmful effects of smoking, but research has confirmed that there’s a significant association between tobacco and venous insufficiency. In this condition, valves in the veins don’t work properly, and as a result blood collects in your legs. Left unaddressed, it can lead to varicose veins, ulcers, and swelling.

Smoking cessation is a powerful way to improve both your vein health and your overall wellness. Quitting certainly isn’t easy, but your doctor may be able to help with resources, and if needed, prescription medication. 

2. Keep Moving

Regular exercise keeps your veins healthy by increasing blood flow. Most adults need 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. Beyond this, small amounts of movement throughout the day, such as taking a break to do a few jumping jacks or hold a few yoga poses, are just as important as routine sweat sessions. Whatever you do, avoid long periods of sitting or standing, which can allow blood to pool in the legs.

3. Watch Your Diet

When it comes to vein health, there are foods that help and some that harm. Foods that are high in sodium can increase blood pressure, putting excess strain on vascular walls. “Most people have too much sodium in their diet,” says Dr. Jacobson, “the majority of which comes in the form of processed foods.” When possible, limit ready-made meals and snacks, and prepare your own foods with wholesome ingredients, like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.

Nutrients like capsaicin and omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to increase circulation by acting as vasodilators, meaning they open up blood vessels to enhance blood flow. Other nutrients have anti-inflammatory effects that could also help keep veins healthy, such as curcumin, garlic, L-arginine, and vitamin B3. If you don’t get these nutrients regularly from your diet, consider asking your doctor about starting supplements.

4. Stay Hydrated

When you’re dehydrated, your blood becomes more sluggish, making it more likely to collect in your veins. Drinking plenty of water is a simple fix. Men should aim to get 3.7 liters of fluid a day, while women should have 2.7 liters. Keep in mind that you can also get fluid from fruits and vegetables. Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption will also ensure your body is amply hydrated. 

5. Use Compression 

Compression socks or stockings are made of specialized material that adds pressure at the legs and ankles, helping to drive blood upwards to improve circulation. If you have an existing venous condition or are at an elevated risk for developing one, your doctor may recommend wearing compression socks throughout the day. Just be sure to get guidance on when to wear them and which style is best for you. 

If you have veins that cause you discomfort or health concerns, lifestyle changes may not be enough to address the entire matter. Make it your New Year’s resolution to have your veins treated with our specialists at one of our nine convenient locations. Call us for an appointment at (770) 423-0595. 

Diabetes and vascular issues often seem to go hand in hand. Yet, while diabetes can certainly contribute to circulatory problems, the relationship between these two medical issues is nuanced. Here’s a closer look at how diabetes affects the health of your veins and arteries.

How Does Diabetes Affect the Vascular System?

Diabetes can exacerbate varicose veins and other vascular insufficiencies, though it doesn’t actually cause these conditions. Despite not being causally related, however, these conditions do share risk factors and could become more dangerous when in combination together. 

Specifically, diabetes can affect blood flow. In type 2 diabetes, the body cannot process glucose (sugar) properly, so glucose accumulates in the blood. High blood glucose levels can allow fatty deposits to develop in the blood vessels, which can cause hardening and narrowing that restricts blood circulation. This is also seen in peripheral artery disease (PAD).

Several of the risk factors for PAD and type 2 diabetes are the same. These include being overweight or obese, being physically inactive, and being middle-aged or older. While having one of these conditions doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll develop the other, there is a chance they could coincide.

If diabetes progresses without proper blood sugar control, blood flow could diminish, resulting in nerve damage. Conditions like PAD and varicose veins can also negatively affect circulation in the legs and feet. It’s therefore important to address both diabetes and vascular issues, as allowing these conditions to go uncontrolled increases the risk of complications like swelling and infection.

The legs and feet are common sites for issues of diabetes-related circulatory problems, mainly because they’re furthest from the heart and circulation tends to be poorest in these areas. 

But there are other harmful circulatory complications that can result from uncontrolled diabetes, as well. For example, diabetic neuropathy, or nerve damage, tends to start in the lower extremities, but can also travel to your hands and arms. Diabetes can also cause the tiny blood vessels in the eyes to become damaged in a condition known as diabetic retinopathy, impacting your vision. Finally, it can also affect blood vessels in your kidneys, preventing them from working properly.

How Can You Promote Vascular Health with Diabetes?

Fortunately, there are ways to promote circulatory health even if you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes. “Regular exercise stimulates blood flow,” recommends Dr. Jones, “and is one of the best ways to improve circulation.” If you’ve been sedentary for some time, your diabetes care team can work with you to develop a walking plan with proper footwear to prevent any issues with your feet.

In addition, smoking cessation is strongly encouraged for people with diabetes and/or circulatory conditions. Smoking restricts blood flow, which only exacerbates problems for people who already have circulatory issues.

Of course, you should also be following your diabetes self-care plan, which encompasses all the steps you take to manage your diabetes. This may include blood sugar monitoring, follow-up visits with your provider, lifestyle changes, and medications such as insulin.

In addition to these tactics, you can address circulatory issues and prevent possible complications by pursuing any necessary vascular treatments. If you have diabetes and are worried that you might have PAD, or another vascular-related issue, schedule a consultation by calling (770) 423-0595 or connect with us online. 

Having high blood pressure, or hypertension, can be serious, putting you at a greater risk for complications such as stroke and heart attack. Controlling your blood pressure is therefore important no matter the time of year. 

But since cold weather can constrict your veins and arteries, it’s especially important to take steps to control it now, when holiday stress and family gatherings also increase. Here are a few ways you can keep your blood pressure – and stress levels – low through the coming season.

Watch Your Sodium Intake

Medical experts agree that high sodium consumption can raise blood pressure. Dietary guidelines call for a maximum of 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day, but an estimated 90% of Americans exceed that amount.

From ham to mashed potatoes, it’s likely that your favorite holiday dishes are unfortunately a little too heavy on the salt. While you don’t have to skip these special meals altogether, be mindful of your sodium intake. Eat a low-sodium, protein rich meal earlier in the day, such as scrambled eggs. This will help fill you up so you can feel satisfied even with smaller salty portions later.

Limit Alcohol

Having more than three drinks in one sitting raises blood pressure. For this reason, you’ll want to limit your holiday cocktails. After one, consider switching to sparkling water with a festive garnish. This will also help you stay hydrated, which is important since dehydration has been linked to high blood pressure.

Monitor Your Medicines

If you’ve been prescribed medication to control your blood pressure, continue taking it as directed. Since the holidays can get busy, consider using an app, alarm, or reminder on your phone to stay on top of your doses.

At the same time, be mindful of potential side effects of any over-the-counter medications you may require. “If you’re feeling congested, for example,” Dr. Sayeed advises, “consult with your provider about safe symptom relief, as many flu and cold medicines have ingredients that can increase blood pressure. Be specifically sure to steer clear of oxymetazoline, phenylephrine, and pseudoephedrine if you have high blood pressure.”

Find Healthy Stress Outlets

Stress releases the hormone cortisol, which also constricts blood vessels. While this is a natural, fight-or-flight response that helped humans react to threats in the wild, today, we’re more likely to experience extended periods of stress from factors that don’t actually endanger us. On a persistent basis, this can elevate blood pressure.

From family parties to last-minute shopping, there are many stressors that can affect us through the holiday season. Fortunately, there are healthy ways to prevent or cope with that stress. Whenever possible, try to say no to unnecessary events or commitments that lengthen your to-do list. But do take time to practice stress management, such as brisk walks outside, a warm bath, or meditation.

In addition to controlling your blood pressure, stay healthy this coming season with any vein treatments you may need. Schedule a consultation at one of our nine convenient locations by calling (770) 423-0595. 

If you have varicose veins or other circulation issues, you may have guessed that temperature changes can impact your vein health. For example, while summertime heat and humidity won’t cause varicose veins, you may experience increased discomfort, throbbing, and heaviness on hot days if you have them. That’s because our veins increase in size during the warmer weather in a phenomenon known as venodilation, which helps to regulate blood flow and keep the body cool. 

The good news is that as the weather cools, you’ll likely begin to feel some relief from these symptoms. Colder weather can allow your blood vessels to shrink back down, which may alleviate pressure in the calves and ankles. But there are other winter-related factors that can affect your vein health, too. Here’s a closer look at what to expect.

Cold Weather & Your Veins

After closely studying cardiovascular diseases, experts have determined that issues like deep vein thrombosis are more likely to occur in the winter. It’s believed that this increased risk stems from several factors, including changes in temperature, reduced physical activity, and cold weather food habits.

While the cooler weather may bring relief from symptoms of varicose veins, significant drops in temperature can constrict the veins and arteries. For people who already experience circulation issues, this extra strain could put added pressure on the heart, potentially leading to cardiovascular issues. 

Additionally, blood becomes thicker as the weather gets colder, which can increase the risk of clotting and the conditions that can come with it, such as heart attack and stroke.

Diet and Exercise Changes

Outside of temperature-related factors, many people experience lifestyle changes along with shifts in the weather. For example, you may find yourself becoming less active as the temperatures cool and days grow shorter. We know that physical inactivity can increase the risk of blood clot formation, so finding ways to stay active even when it’s frigid outside is important.

If it feels too chilly to take walks, ride your bike, or even do outside yardwork, consider hitting the gym or trying at-home workouts. Additionally, avoid sitting for long stretches of time, and get up and move at least once an hour.

Dietary factors can also influence vein health throughout the winter months. During the holidays, we’re more likely to indulge in dishes that are often high in sodium, which can increase blood pressure, putting added strain on veins. Too much alcohol — commonly shared around the holidays — can also spike blood pressure. Finally, weight gain can put more stress on varicose veins, causing valves to grow weaker and excess blood to pool in the legs, intensifying symptoms like heaviness. 

With these factors in mind, it’s certainly possible to enjoy the relief of cooler weather without compromising vein health. In addition to staying active, take a mindful approach to eating, and stay on track with any special dietary guidelines your doctor has advised. If you do choose to drink, do so in moderation. If your doctor has prescribed any other measures to keep your veins healthy, such as wearing compression socks, be sure to carry them over into the cooler season.

If you’re searching for experts to help you maintain your vein health year-round, turn to Vascular Surgical Associates. Our vein specialists treat a wide range of conditions, including peripheral artery disease and venous disease including varicose veins. To schedule an appointment, call (770) 423-0595, or connect with us online.

An arterial duplex exam is a type of ultrasound imaging used to see how blood moves through your veins and arteries. Like other types of ultrasound imaging, an arterial duplex ultrasound uses sound waves that bounce off the body’s internal structures or moving parts, such as blood, to create pictures.

There are several types of duplex ultrasounds. An arterial and venous duplex ultrasound can look at blood flow and blood vessels in the abdomen, but there are also arterial duplex ultrasounds of the extremities, including the legs and arms. Duplex ultrasounds are also available to specifically examine your kidneys and carotid arteries.

In many cases, arterial duplex ultrasounds are prescribed if your doctor thinks an artery may be narrowed or blocked. For example, the exam is commonly used to detect peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition in which the blood vessels in the legs or lower extremities become narrowed or blocked, thereby affecting blood flow from the heart. 

What Does an Arterial Duplex Exam Entail?

Typically, there’s no advance preparation involved. You may be asked to change into a medical gown so that the ultrasound technician can access your arms and legs easily. You’ll then be directed to lie on an exam table, and the sonographer will apply ultrasound gel to the area being examined. This cool, smooth substance helps sound waves pass through tissue, and will wipe off easily once the exam is finished.

During the exam, the sonographer will move a wand known as a transducer over the area being examined. This device sends the sound waves, which then reflect back from your body and are sent to a computer. The computer processes the sound waves, transforming them into images. You may be asked to lie still, change positions, or hold your breath throughout certain portions of the exam so the technician can capture images from different angles. You shouldn’t feel any discomfort, but there may be minor pressure from the transducer.

Oftentimes, arterial duplex exams of the legs are coupled with an ankle-brachial index (ABI). During this procedure, blood pressure cuffs will be placed on your arms and legs to measure the ABI. This is a ratio of the measurement of your systolic blood pressure at the ankle, compared to blood pressure at the brachial artery, which is located in the upper arm. It is calculated by dividing the blood pressure in the ankle by that in the arm. A value of 0.9 or greater is considered normal, but lower readings could indicate PAD or another issue that may require treatment.

While the test was originally developed to detect PAD, it has since been found that ABI can also be used to indicate atherosclerosis or other cardiovascular concerns. 

If an arterial duplex exam or another type of venous imaging has been recommended for you, turn to Vascular Surgical Associates. In addition to our board-certified vascular surgeons, our team is comprised of experienced ultrasound technicians working in a state-of-the-art vascular lab. Browse through our locations online or schedule an appointment by calling (770) 423-0595. 

Staying seated for long periods of time while traveling can be uncomfortable for everyone, but if you have varicose veins, it could also involve some big health risks. 

“In general, having varicose veins is associated with an increased risk of a potentially serious type of blood clot known as deep venous thrombosis (DVT),” explains Vascular Surgical Associates physician Dr. Jeffery Winter. But the long periods of immobility required for traveling can increase your risk of DVT even more. “This means,” he concludes, “that people with varicose veins who travel must take extra precautions to lower their risk.” 

Fortunately, DVT is highly preventable when you follow these guidelines.

Safe Travel Tips for People with Varicose Veins

1. Get Up & Move

Moving often is important to preventing blood stasis, which can lead to clotting. If you’re traveling by plane, the CDC advises getting up and walking about the cabin every two to three hours. You’ll want to do the same if you’re traveling by car, so be sure to stop somewhere safe, such as a rest area.

It’s also beneficial to continue moving, even while you’re seated. Every so often, keep your leg muscles active by doing some simple movements. For example: raising and lowering your heels  several times while keeping your toes on the floor, then doing the same for the front of your foot by lifting your toes while keeping your heels grounded. Tightening and relaxing your leg muscles several times, or twirling your ankles while holding your feet off the ground can also help.

Since it’s important to avoid being completely immobile for a long period of time, consider the length of your flight — and how much you might want to sleep during it. Sleeping in an upright position on a plane, or as a passenger in the car, isn’t the same as sleeping in bed. This is because sitting with bent knees creates pressure on the popliteal vein, and increases your risk of DVT. Avoid taking sleeping pills when you travel, and either stay awake for the duration or take shorter naps that will still allow for movement breaks.

2. Wear Compression Socks

Compression socks or stockings are tight-fitting garments that add pressure to the legs and ankles. Combined with keeping your legs moving regularly, the compression provided can help circulate your blood and prevent clotting. Since there are many styles and compression levels available, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about the best pair for you.

3. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can increase your risk for clotting at any time, because it causes the blood to become concentrated and sluggish. When traveling in an airplane, low levels of both oxygen and humidity can increase your dehydration even more. The effect is worse when you add alcohol to the mix, so save the cocktails for when you land and instead choose water to replenish moisture. (Better yet, pack an empty water bottle in your carry-on and fill it up at the gate before you board.) If you’re driving, be sure to pack plenty of water for the trip.

Wherever you’re headed, our award-winning specialists are here to support your vein health. Vascular Surgical Associates offers a range of surgical and non-surgical treatments, as well as a state-of-the-art vascular lab. To request an appointment, call (770) 423-0595, or connect with us online.

Having high blood pressure can increase your risk for serious health issues, including heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. Also known as hypertension, this condition affects your artery health, too. To avoid these serious conditions, here’s more about how high blood pressure can affect your vascular system.

How High Blood Pressure Impacts Your Arteries

When your arteries are healthy, they’re flexible and elastic. They’re also strong and smooth, allowing blood to flow freely throughout your body to supply your organs with essential nutrients and oxygen. As its name suggests, high blood pressure means the pressure of your blood increases, which puts added strain on the walls of your arteries. This can lead to two major issues in your vascular system:

Damaged, Narrow Arteries

“There’s a domino effect to high blood pressure,” explains Vascular Surgical Associates physician Dr. Jeffery Winter. “Having it over a long period of time can eventually weaken the cells in the lining of your arteries. Fats from the foods you eat — specifically, ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol — can then collect along the damaged areas. Over time, this buildup causes your artery walls to lose their elasticity and potentially become narrower. This narrowing can then restrict blood flow, causing your circulatory system to become less efficient.”

When your circulatory system has to work harder to pump blood throughout the body, it puts added strain on your heart. This extra strain then puts you at a greater risk for potentially deadly events like a heart attack or heart failure.

Aneurysm

Ongoing pressure against weak arteries can cause a section of the artery wall to bulge, forming what’s known as an aneurysm. While an aneurysm can form in any artery, they’re most commonly found in the aorta: the largest artery, which carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Aortic aneurysms can be thoracic, abdominal, or located in the chest. 

The bigger an aneurysm gets, the greater the risk of bursting becomes. This can lead to life-threatening bleeding. Risk factors for aneurysms include advanced age, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, having a family history of the condition, and high blood pressure.

The Importance of Maintaining Healthy Blood Pressure

Oftentimes, high blood pressure has no outward symptoms or warning signs. Many people don’t know they have blood pressure and are at risk for serious health issues. As the American Heart Association explains, “High blood pressure is a largely symptomless ‘silent killer.’ If you ignore your blood pressure because you think a certain symptom or sign will alert you to the problem, you are taking a dangerous chance with your life.”

Testing for high blood pressure involves assessing your systolic (the pressure against arteries when your heart is contracting), and diastolic (the pressure while it rests between beats) blood pressures. Typically, that number is presented as the measurement of your systolic pressure over your diastolic pressure. On average, “normal” blood pressure is considered that of less than 120/80 mmHg.

Fortunately, if tests reveal you have or are creeping toward dangerously high blood pressure, there are steps you can take, including medications and lifestyle modifications. Identifying high blood pressure can also alert your physicians to look for other potential issues, including damage to your vascular system.

If you’re seeking circulatory help from a team of experts, turn to Vascular Surgical Associates. Our physicians specialize in treating aortic aneurysms, among other vascular conditions. To schedule an appointment at one of our nine convenient locations, connect with us online or call (770) 423-0595. 

Vascular Surgical Associates, a leading vascular care practice, is one of several sponsors of this year’s 9/11 Run to Remember 5K road race taking place 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Saturday, September 10 in downtown Cartersville, Georgia. Proceeds from the race will support the Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation and Next Rung charities. Vascular Surgical Associates’ sponsorship illustrates its commitment and interest in supporting the communities the practice serves. 

The race celebrates the valiant efforts made by the first responders on 9/11. The pre-race registration fee is $25, which includes a guaranteed T-shirt, and pre-registration at 11 a.m., September 4. A pre-registration packet pick-up will be held 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday, September 9 in the lobby of the Cartersville Public Safety Headquarters. Same-day registration takes place 6:45 a.m. to 7:45 a.m., and the fee is $35. Parking will be available during the race at the Bartow County Courthouse located at 135 West Cherokee Ave. 

To register for the 9/11 Run to Remember 5K road race, click here. To learn more about Vascular Surgical Associates, visit vascularsurgical.com/ or to schedule an appointment, call (770) 423-0595.