Vascular Disease

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA)

The aorta is the main artery in the body. It comes off of the heart in the chest, then loops around and descends in the body to level of the belly button. There it branches, with a main artery going down each of the legs. It gives off the blood supply to all the major organs including the brain, intestines, and kidneys. Below the kidney arteries it is called the abdominal aorta. This is the most common site of an aneurysm.

Carotid Artery Disease

The Carotid Arteries connect the heart to the brain. Specifically, the internal carotid artery is the direct connection to the brain, bringing blood and oxygen to the brain to keep it functioning properly. Atherosclerosis, also called “hardening of the arteries”, can occur in these vessels, causing a blockage of flow to the brain. When this occurs, it increases the risk of future stroke.

Compression Stockings

Graduated Compression Stockings are an essential part in the treatment of venous disease. They are the first step in management of venous insufficiency, which is a condition that leads to leg heaviness, swelling, and varicose veins. They are also an important part of the post-procedural care after intervention for venous disease.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Deep Vein Thrombosis, commonly referred to as “DVT”, occurs when a blood clot, or thrombus, develops in a deep vein. Most of the time, DVT presents itself in the legs or pelvis, but occasionally DVT can occur in the upper extremities. The deep veins differ from the superficial veins in that they are located deep in the body and can not be seen, and more importantly, because they have a direct connection to the heart and lungs.

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)

Arteries carry blood rich in oxygen and nutrients from the heart to all parts of the body. When the arteries to the legs become blocked, the muscles are deprived of oxygen and cause significant symptoms. This condition is called Peripheral Arterial Disease or PAD.

Sclerotherapy (Vein Injection Therapy)

Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to eliminate varicose veins and “spider veins.” Sclerotherapy involves an injection of a solution (such as sodium chloride, a salt solution, or sotradecol, a detergent) directly into the vein. The solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel, causing it to swell and stick together, and the blood to clot. Over time, the vessel turns into scar tissue that fades from view.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are abnormal veins that can occur in the legs. They can be small, thin purple-colored lines (called “spider veins”) that lie just below the surface, or they can appear as thick, bulging, or knotted veins. While many people think that varicose veins are simply a cosmetic issue, there is often an underlying medical problem that causes varicose veins. This medical condition is called venous insufficiency.

Vascular Laboratory

Vascular Imaging is an integral part of the diagnostic work up of arterial and venous disease. This may involve one or more of several non-invasive tests. The Milford Vascular Institute has an on-site Vascular Laboratory with a dedicated, full-time registered Ultrasound Technologist available Monday through Friday. All of the exams are either performed at our office or arranged for you through our office.