Vascular Surgical Associates Partners with Wellstar Health System for First Thoracic Branch Endograft Procedure in Georgia

On August 16, Dr. Michael Corey and Dr. Emily Lagergren from Vascular Surgical Associates partnered with Wellstar Health System for the first thoracic branch endograft procedure in Georgia and the third in the nation. The innovative procedure is an example of the practice’s mission to provide leading-edge treatment.

The procedure began with a vascular surgeon inserting a stent graft through the artery in the patient’s groin and guiding it into the aortic arch in the chest using an X-ray. The stent-graft device, offered by WL GORE Medical, is used to repair tears and aneurysms in the aorta using a minimally invasive approach. The branched GORE TAG device is the first and only FDA-approved implantable thoracic branched endoprosthesis offering a fully endovascular, or catheter-based, treatment option for patients with aortic diseases.

The device allows the surgeon to maintain vital blood flow to the brain and arms of the patient throughout the procedure. Patients undergoing the branched GORE TAG stent graft are often discharged from the hospital the day following the operation. The first of its kind, the thoracic branch endograft offers a minimally invasive approach to aortic problems. It represents a new and better way of treating diseases of the aorta.

To make an appointment with a Vascular Surgical Associates physician, call 770-423-0595 or find location specific information here.

Venous ultrasounds are used to search for and diagnose certain conditions, including deep venous thrombosis, or blood clots. This imaging can also be used to assess the venous system for the presence of varicose veins and venous reflux disease. 

Ultrasound technology uses sound waves to create images of the veins and is fairly quick and non-invasive. If you’ve been scheduled for a venous ultrasound at our facility, here’s what to expect from your appointment.

How Is a Venous Ultrasound Performed?

As with other types of ultrasounds, you’ll start by lying on an examination table that can be moved as needed. The technologist may have you stand depending on the assessment needed. From there a clear gel will be applied to the area of examination. The gel is a conductive medium that helps form a bond between your skin and the ultrasound transducer. It helps to eliminate pockets of air, thereby allowing soundwaves from the transducer to pass into the body. Although it has a sticky consistency, it wipes off easily without leaving a residue behind.

During the exam, the technologist will move the transducer over areas of interest to capture images. They may use different angles or ask you to move into different positions to access different areas of the venous system. Typically, venous ultrasounds take 30 to 45 minutes, but may go longer depending on the exam’s complexity.

How Should You Prepare for a Venous Ultrasound?

Preparation for an ultrasound depends on the area being examined. If you’re having veins in the abdominal region examined, you may be asked to modify your food or water intake leading up to the appointment. Otherwise, venous ultrasounds typically require no preparation before the appointment. Prior to the exam, you may be asked to change into a gown and to remove any jewelry or clothing in the area being examined.

What Can You Expect During & After a Venous Ultrasound?

While the ultrasound technologist moves the transducer over your skin, you may feel some mild pressure. Typically, there’s no discomfort involved, but you may feel minor pain if they’re taking images over a particularly tender area. If a Doppler ultrasound exam is also being performed, there may also be various sounds that change with your blood flow.

While regular ultrasounds can produce images of the venous systems, they can’t show blood flow. But Doppler ultrasounds bounce high-frequency sound waves off red blood cells as they circulate to show how blood is moving. This can be helpful for diagnosing blocked or bulging arteries, decreased circulation, poorly functioning valves, and narrowing of arteries.

After your venous ultrasound is complete, you’ll be able to resume your normal routine right away. A radiologist will interpret the results, and one of our providers will discuss findings with you to determine a treatment plan, if needed.

For any known or suspected venous conditions, turn to Vascular Surgical Associates for the highest level of care and treatment. Our accredited lab features advanced venous imaging technology, and our highly trained staff will help you feel at ease during your exam. Find out more about our venous imaging or schedule an appointment by calling (770) 423-0595.

Whether you have a wound from a recent surgery, or you’ve hurt yourself and need first aid, the steps you take to care for your wound will play an important role in ensuring proper healing. While our providers may send you home with more specific care tips depending on the nature and location of your wound, the following home care tips apply to most wounds.

Stop the Bleeding

If you’ve sustained an injury such as a slight abrasion or minor laceration, the first step is to stop the bleeding by applying pressure. Our physicians recommend that you apply direct pressure with a clean gauze or cloth to encourage clotting. If bleeding persists for more than 15 minutes or the wound appears deep or gaping, seek immediate medical attention instead of attempting to treat it at home. 

In the case of an incision from a recent surgery, your medical care team will take steps to stop bleeding as part of your post-op care.

Keep It Clean

Whether you’re caring for an injury or incision from a recent procedure, it’s critically important that you keep the wound clean as it heals. In most cases, this will involve keeping it covered to protect against bacteria or other foreign substances that could cause infection. You may also be advised to clean the area around the wound using a gentle soap and water, or by allowing warm water to run over the affected area while you’re showering. 

Though cleaning is very important, do be mindful to follow any instructions about getting the wound wet. In some cases, you may be instructed not to submerge the wound for a period of time.

Apply Treatments (If Needed)

Some wounds may require topical treatments, such as antibiotic ointments. In some cases, antibiotic ointments can accelerate wound healing, but they aren’t required for all wounds. For example, your doctor may not want you to apply any topical products to an incision with stitches or staples. Small cuts and scrapes generally respond well to these ointments, however.

Change the Dressing

Changing your wound’s dressing helps to reduce your risk of infection. As a reminder, always wash your hands before caring for your wound to avoid introducing bacteria to open skin. Gently loosen the adhesive from your skin, dab at the skin with warm soapy water to remove any dried blood or drainage, and rinse it with a fresh cloth soaked in warm water. Allow it to dry completely before applying a new dressing.

Watch for Signs of an Issue

Vascular Surgical Associates physician Dr. Jeffery Winter cautions that there are certain signs that a wound could be infected and needs immediate medical attention. If the wound appears larger, deeper, or darker than it did previously, for example, contact your doctor. You should also reach out for increased pain, swelling, redness, or bleeding. Finally, call if you have a fever of 100.5 or higher or discolored, odorous drainage coming from the wound.

Vascular Surgical Associates has been treating patients with wounds for more than 30 years. Our staff includes a Wound and Ostomy Certified Registered Nurse and Vascular Surgeon who focuses solely on wounds to ensure that patients with all wounds receive the best possible treatment for safe, timely healing. Find out more about the location nearest you by connecting with us online, or schedule an appointment by calling (770) 423-0595.

An aortic aneurysm occurs when a balloon-like bulge develops in the wall of the aorta: the main artery that carries oxygen-rich blood away from the heart. This artery has thick walls that can withstand normal blood pressure. Under certain conditions, such as medical issues, genetic factors, or trauma, the walls may become weak or damaged, making them susceptible to aneurysm.

Aortic aneurysms call for prompt medical attention. Should they become too large, they can burst, becoming life-threatening.

What Are the Types of Aortic Aneurysm?

There are two types of aneurysms that can develop in the aorta: abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA). An abdominal aortic aneurysm is more common and develops in the stomach region. Thoracic aortic aneurysms develop in the part of the aorta that runs in the chest.

Although the causes of an aortic aneurysm are often unknown, factors such as atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries), injury, and infection can play a role in their development. Certain inherited conditions affecting connective tissue, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and Marfan syndrome, may also cause an aortic aneurysm.

In addition to these direct causes, certain populations are more likely to develop them. People who smoke, are over the age of 65, have a family history of aortic aneurysms, or have high blood pressure may have a greater risk.

What Are the Signs of An Aortic Aneurysm?

In many cases, people with an aortic aneurysm don’t know they have it. Symptoms often don’t develop until the aneurysm bursts, at which point it’s considered a medical emergency requiring immediate care. As the aneurysm grows, however, certain symptoms may develop, such as shortness of breath, coughing, difficulty breathing or swallowing, and chest or back pain.

When an aortic aneurysm ruptures, the following symptoms may occur:

• Sharp, sudden pain in the chest, upper back, neck, or arms
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of consciousness
• Low blood pressure
• Difficulty swallowing

If these symptoms develop suddenly, it’s important to call 911 immediately.

In many cases, aortic aneurysms are detected during tests conducted for other reasons. With that in mind, screening is available for early detection, which is often recommended for people between the ages of 65 and 75 who have a family history or have smoked.

How Is an Aortic Aneurysm Treated?

The treatment for an aortic aneurysm depends on the stage at which it’s detected. If it’s found before it’s grown too large, medication to lower blood pressure may be used to reduce the risk of a rupture. 

If a larger aortic aneurysm has been detected, surgery may be recommended for removal. There are several surgical approaches used, including abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) open repair, open-chest surgery, and the less-invasive endovascular surgery approach. The surgical approach will depend on the patient’s health and any preexisting conditions, as well as the location of the aneurysm. 

When an aortic aneurysm ruptures, it requires emergency open-chest surgery. For this reason, identifying and treating aortic aneurysms with preventive surgery or lifelong monitoring are the safest approaches.

Vascular Surgical Associates provides the highest quality vascular care and treatment available. If you’ve been diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm, we can discuss treatment options and help you make an informed decision. Find out more about how we help patients navigate this condition or schedule an appointment by calling (770) 423-0595.

The circulatory system is essential to the body, transporting vital oxygen to every part. But as we age, certain changes may take place within the circulatory system that obstruct its smooth function. 

Fortunately, it’s possible to offset many of these changes with healthy habits. Discover the importance of circulation health and how you can maintain it below.

Why Is Good Circulation Important?

Our very existence depends on a healthy circulatory system. Circulation ensures our organs, muscles, and tissues all receive the blood and oxygen they need to keep working well, and therefore keep us alive. A healthy circulatory system also helps the body remove waste products, including carbon dioxide and chemical byproducts naturally created by your organs.

The circulatory system comprises three independent circuits that work together:

• Pulmonary circuit: This circuit transports blood from the heart to the lungs to receive oxygen; pulmonary veins then transport oxygenated blood back to the heart, where it can be sent to the rest of the body. 
• Systemic circuit: Blood with oxygen, nutrients, and hormones travel from the heart throughout other parts of the body in this circuit. The blood also picks up waste products in the veins as the body uses up nutrients.
• Coronary circuit: This circuit provides the heart with oxygenated blood, then returns blood that needs more oxygen back to the right atrium, or upper chamber, of the heart to restart the process.

The body relies on proper circulation for optimal functioning. When you experience poor circulation, a number of health issues can ensue. While poor circulation isn’t a condition in itself, it can be caused by other issues, such as diabetes, arterial issues, and heart conditions.

How Can You Maintain Circulation Health?

There are several things you can do to support circulatory health. Here are a few simple yet effective ways to start.

Be physically active.

Aim to get at least 150 minutes of physical activity in each week. This doesn’t have to include high-intensity exercise: walking, gardening, and dancing are some activities to consider. Try to avoid long periods of sitting, which can slow circulation and cause blood to pool in the feet and legs.

Quit smoking.

The chemicals in cigarettes and other tobacco products can lead to atherosclerosis, or the buildup of plaque in the arteries which impedes blood flow. It also increases the risk for peripheral artery disease, another condition that can restrict circulation. Regardless of how long or how much you’ve smoked, quitting can benefit your circulatory health, and these benefits continue to improve over time. 

Eat a heart-healthy diet.

Eating a nutrient-rich diet can help your circulatory system perform its best and help you maintain a healthy weight. The American Heart Association recommends a diet mainly composed of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats, and minimally processed foods. Limiting added sugars, salt, and alcohol is also advised.

Control chronic conditions.

Certain chronic conditions can affect components of the circulatory system. In diabetes, for example, high blood sugar levels cause fatty deposits to form within the blood vessels, which cause them to narrow and harden, reducing blood flow. High blood pressure can also damage arteries by reducing their elasticity, decreasing blood flow as well. Controlling these and other chronic conditions that affect circulation through medication and lifestyle changes can help to ensure a healthy heart and blood vessels.

As leaders in circulatory health, Vascular Surgical Associates helps patients experiencing conditions that affect their circulation, including peripheral artery disease. Find out how we can help you promote strong circulatory health by connecting with us online, or calling (770) 423-0595 to schedule an appointment.

An Angiography (Angio) Suite is an innovative medical space fully-equipped with advanced imaging technology that allows you to undergo certain vascular procedures in an outpatient setting. It is often used to assess or increase blood flow, examine the condition of blood vessels after a trauma or surgery, and perform other angiographic surgeries. 

With our Angio Suites, patients can complete the entire perioperative process, including pre-op, the procedure itself, and recovery — all right in our Marietta and Austell offices.

What’s Included in an Angio Suite?

An Angio Suite is a fully functional, sterile environment equipped with an image-guided system that doctors use to perform real-time diagnostics and therapeutic procedures. The space has all of the tools and technology of an operating room found in conventional hospitals, without the need to go through hospital procedures or stay there overnight. Most Angio Suites feature an x-ray generator, image intensifier, a rotating operating table that enables easy patient positioning, and are fully-stocked with all necessary surgical tools.

What Procedures Can Be Performed in an Angio Suite?

A number of vascular procedures can be performed in our Angio Suites, including:

• Groshong catheter placement
• IVC filter Insertion and removal
• Mesenteric artery angioplasty and stent placement
• Peripheral arterial atherectomy, balloon angioplasty and stent placement
• Permacath placement
• Portacath placement and removal
• Renal artery angioplasty and stent placement
• Shuntogram, including balloon angioplasty and stenting of dialysis access
• Thrombectomy (declot) of dialysis access
• Venogram and venous stenting

What Are the Benefits of an Angio Suite?

In the past, patients with conditions such as peripheral artery disease often had to go to hospitals just to receive minimally invasive procedures. It was also necessary for them to see multiple different caregivers in different areas of the hospital for a diagnosis, procedure, and follow-up care. Even in outpatient settings, the pre- and post-op care could result in many hours spent at the facility. 

Angio Suites revolutionize outpatient procedures and are better able to adjust to evolving clinical demands by giving surgeons a dedicated space for these minimally-invasive, image-guided procedures. Patients benefit by avoiding extended hospital stays, which are sometimes linked to increased risk of infection, and may also add further emotional stress to the situation. 

Angio Suites also enable expedited perioperative times and superior outcomes by reducing wait and procedure times, and simplifying scheduling and check-in. The current development of Smart Angio Suites also combines audio-video technology and internet connectivity, which allows for even more expert communication and collaboration during procedures. 

Here at Vascular Surgical Associates, patient health and satisfaction is our number-one priority, which is why we offer state-of-the-art Angio Suites to make the entirety of your procedure as comfortable as possible. Our Angio Suites provide a smooth and relaxed outpatient experience, with the added peace of mind that you’re in the care of our board-certified vascular surgeons. We use the same safety protocols and cutting-edge technology as hospitals do, but you get the benefit of reduced wait times and no hospital stay. As a result, you get to recover in the comfort of your own home sooner.

To determine whether you may be eligible to have your procedure in one of our Angio Suites, connect with us online, or schedule your appointment by calling (770) 423-0595. 

According to the Amputee Coalition, more than 2.1 million people in the U.S. are living with limb loss — a number that’s projected to jump to 3.6 million by 2050. While trauma is a common cause of amputation, the majority of cases are caused by vascular disease. For instance, 85% of lower-limb amputations are preceded by foot ulcers, a common characteristic of circulatory impediments caused by diabetes.

While these statistics may seem grim, advancements in the world of prosthetics are accelerating at a rapid pace. Here’s a look at some of the most promising developments.

3D Printing

Also known as additive manufacturing, 3D printing is the process of creating three-dimensional objects from digital files. It uses the successive layering of materials such as plastic, composites, or bio-materials to fully structure and form an object of nearly any design. This method provides greater flexibility in creating complex shapes than standard manufacturing processes. 

“In the prosthesis space, 3D printing is expected to be an important tool to address unique patient needs and unpredictable demand,” asserts the Alliance of Advanced BioMedical Engineering,  “A custom-fit prosthetic device offers myriad benefits, not the least of which is patient comfort and improved functionality.”

Already there have been some remarkable results. Self-taught engineer Ben Ryan of North Wales, for example, teamed up with Bangor University to build a prosthetic for his year-old son, whose arm required amputation at the elbow after delivery complications. When Ryan learned that a traditional prosthetic wouldn’t be available until his son turned three — an age when doctors believed the child may be more likely to reject it — Ryan set to designing them on his own. The first one was assembled from a kitchen sponge and medical dressing when his son Sol was five weeks old, and the successful developments have evolved from there, with the help of 3D printing technology. 

Now, the e-NABLE network brings together volunteers who are using 3D printing “to give the world a helping hand.” Designers, physicians, 3D print enthusiasts, and engineers are providing customized prosthetics to amputees, and the network even has a “Handomatic” program that allows users to customize STL files to print their own devices.

Myoelectric Prostheses

Traditional prostheses offer some degree of support and mobility, but they lack full limb functionality. Companies such as Arm Dynamics are using myoelectric prosthetics, including fingers, hooks, and elbows, to provide a greater range of functionality, including multiple grip patterns. These devices can be used in conjunction with targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) surgery to reassign nerves and give the amputee better control over their device.

Composite Materials

One challenge in prosthetic manufacturing is the need to create devices with flexibility and strength, but that are not too heavily weighted. Composite materials are lightweight in nature, and provide both corrosion resistance and stability. They have increasingly replaced heavier metals, such as steel, and will likely remain at the forefront of innovations in prosthetics.

Carbon fiber is also becoming a popular choice for its flexibility, making it a suitable option for prosthetic feet. This material is used in the Flex-Foot Cheetah® running blades, the prosthetics developed by medical engineer Van Phillips whose leg was severed in a water-skiing incident. Phillips’ blades have since been used by competitors in the Olympic Games, and have already greatly changed the prosthetics field.The Prosthetic and Medical Team at VSA provides an outcome-based Total Prosthetic Care Plan that offers the highest level of medical care and prosthetic expertise. We’re committed to leveraging cutting-edge technology to offer the best solutions for our patients based on their individualized needs. Learn more here or schedule an appointment by calling (770) 423-0595.

Varicose and spider veins are a common frustration for many people, as it’s estimated that up to 35% of people in the U.S. experience them to at least some degree. While most individuals consider these venous problems to be simply an unsightly nuisance, it’s possible they could also be indicative of a more serious medical condition. Here’s a closer look into when vein issues are a medical problem versus simply a cosmetic concern.

Cosmetic vs. Medical Vein Issues

Both varicose veins and spider veins are types of a medical condition known as venous insufficiency. This occurs when the valves or walls in the leg veins don’t work properly, making it harder for blood to return to the heart. As a result, blood pools in the veins, which can lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as swelling, aching, ulcers, and the telltale sign of the condition — more pronounced varicose veins.

A combination of factors may underlie varicose veins, including a family history, long periods of sitting, inactivity, pregnancy, and being overweight. Women and older adults are also more likely to develop them.

Spider veins are the earliest sign of venous insufficiency, but can develop later into varicose veins, which indicate the condition has progressed. Spider veins are smaller than varicose veins, and resemble small threads, branches, or spider webs. They can typically be seen just beneath the skin’s surface and may be red, blue, or purplish in color, but they do not cause bulging, as varicose veins do.

The most common sites for spider veins are the face and legs, while varicose veins can develop anywhere in the body, most commonly in the legs.

Treating Vein Issues

Both spider veins (which are mainly a cosmetic issue) and more serious varicose veins can be treated. Addressing varicose veins is important; otherwise, pressure and swelling can continue to increase, putting strain on the walls of the veins and leading to further valve damage. This can then progress into other issues such as tissue damage, ulcers, and infection. In rare instances, varicose veins can also develop into blood clots, which are medical emergencies that call for immediate treatment.

In the case of both spider and varicose veins, nonsurgical treatments such as sclerotherapy may be used to collapse the affected veins. This prompts the blood to reroute itself through healthy veins. Other treatment options include laser therapy, which can close veins through guided ultrasound imaging and laser energy, as well as radiofrequency closure, which uses radiofrequency energy administered via a catheter.

Although spider veins may be too small for needle injections, they can still be removed for cosmetic purposes. Using lasers, doctors can destroy the affected vein without damaging the skin. Following the treatment, some small spider veins may disappear immediately. For others, it may take several weeks for them to gradually fade and then disappear altogether.Whether you have veins that are a cosmetic concern, medical issue, or both, Vascular Surgical Associates can help. Find out more about our available treatment options here. Or schedule a consultation at one of our nine convenient locations by calling (770) 423-0595.

Vascular Surgical Associates is delighted to announce that four of our physicians appear on the 2022 Top Doctors list in the May issue of Georgia Trend magazine.

The list features Drs. Arun Chervu, Shariq Sayeed, Michael Corey, and Charles W. Wyble Jr.

Georgia Trend’s third annual listing of the state’s top doctors was created in partnership with DataJoe Research. The process included peer voting and a review of government sources.

Congratulations to our Georgia Trend magazine Top Doctors, who serve as a shining example of Vascular Surgical Associates’ commitment to outstanding patient care.

Blood circulation is vital to your health and well-being, as it delivers oxygen and nutrients to your organs, while also removing toxins. Poor circulation can cause various health issues, including fatigue, varicose veins, joint pain, cognitive dysfunction, and digestive problems. 

To maintain a healthy blood flow, compression socks can be a highly effective tool. But, how do you know if they are right for you? 

What Are Compression Socks?

Compression socks (or compression stockings) are socks or sleeves designed specifically to apply gentle pressure to your legs. Though they do not cut off blood flow or circulation, they are tighter than regular socks, with a snugger fit. The mild pressure they apply promotes circulation, helping with healthy blood flow.

Compression socks come in various forms and strengths, depending on your need. A “graduated fit” may mean they are tighter at the ankle and looser as the sock moves up your leg. Others come in the form of a “tube” shape, surrounding the leg with nothing over the foot. Consultation with your doctor or vein specialist will help determine the right type for you. 

How Do Compression Socks Help?

Compression socks help improve the function of the muscle pump system in your calf, and  minimize the pooling of blood in your legs. This can bring relief in a multitude of areas, including: 

• Reduced leg swelling
• Prevention of blood clots (either post-surgery, or during extended periods of inactivity) 
• Reduced varicose veins
• Reduced leg cramping
• Reduced risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Reduced risk of lymphedema

Compression socks can also be helpful to athletes, as they enhance performance and potentially reduce the risk of injury. Pregnant women may also benefit from their use.

Do I Need Compression Socks?

You may want to try compression socks if you:

• Experience pain in your legs
• Have leg swelling
• Sit or stand for long periods
• Experience pain after traveling

As orthopedic foot surgeon Dr. Georgeanne Botek told Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials, one of the positive aspects about compression socks is that anyone can try them. You don’t need a doctor’s approval, and there are few risks to experimenting with their efficacy.

However, it is always a good idea to talk with your doctor about your vein health concerns, especially if you feel you are at risk of blood clots, lymphedema, or diabetes. Compression socks may help with these conditions, and your doctor can prescribe them and advise you in the process. And if prescribed by your doctor, you may also be able to apply insurance benefits. 

Tips For Wearing Compression Socks

As you start to wear compression socks, there are a few things to remember:   

• Have clean, dry skin, and sit down when putting them on.
• Protect your compression socks from damage by wearing socks or shoes over them.
• Check your legs daily for skin color changes or irritations.
• Replace your compression socks if they are damaged. Tears or runs compromise their fit. 

If you have a venous concern or need help deciding if compression socks are right for you, our specialists can help. Contact Vascular Surgical today to schedule a consultation online or call 770-428-0595.