Lower Extremity Peripheral Arterial Disease
Peripheral arterial disease is the result of atherosclerosis or “hardening” of the arteries, commonly due to a combination of smoking and genetics. Atherosclerotic plaque obstructs the flow through the artery, thereby reducing blood flow and nutrients to the lower leg. There are three conditions that commonly result
1. Claudication – a cramping sensation in the buttock, thigh, or calves. Treatments include medical therapies, lifestyle modification, smoking cessation, exercise, and, in rare circumstances, surgery.
2. Rest Pain – a burning or throbbing pain in the foot, often worse at night when trying to sleep. This can be a sign of impending, permanent damage to the leg. A referral to our vascular surgery team is important so that a proper workup can be performed.
3. Ulceration/Gangrene – ulcers on the toes and/or feet that do not heal within two weeks. Severely damaged blood flow may lead to ulcers that do not have enough oxygen or nutrients to form new skin. In extreme cases, this can lead to infection and/or gangrene.
A prompt evaluation by our vascular surgery team
The team at Symmetry Vascular Center is proud to offer treatment for all forms of PAD. If surgery is required, many procedures are performed in our in-office angiography suite. This allows patients to avoid high the co-pays and inconveniences associated with surgery at a local medical center. If more complex surgery is required, Drs. Tapper and Diamond arecredentialed at Cleveland Clinic Martin Health and St. Lucie Medical Center.
Aortic Aneurysm
Aortic aneurysms are amongst the leading causes of death in the United States, particularly for men over the age of 65. Drs. Tapper and Diamond can provide screening ultrasounds for this asymptomatic condition in our office. If an aneurysm is diagnosed, both physicians can prescribe the appropriate medications to reduce the risk of growth and/or rupture. In the even that surgery is required, Drs. Tapper and Diamond are both well-versed in the latest endovascular techniques for complex aneurysm repair.
Carotid Artery Disease
Carotid artery disease is the second-leading cause of stroke in the United States, accounting for 25-30% of all strokes nationwide. Drs. Tapper and Diamond can perform and interpret screening ultrasounds for specific patients. Additionally, both surgeons perform surgical and endovascular treatment of carotid artery disease in our local community. https://symmetryvascular.com