Vascular health is fundamental for overall well-being. In Ecuador, vascular diseases are a growing concern, affecting people of all ages. Dr. Juan Carlos Peralvo, a specialist in Vascular Surgery, offers comprehensive care for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of these conditions.
What is Vascular Surgery?
Vascular surgery focuses on the study and treatment of diseases affecting the arteries, veins, and lymphatic vessels. This includes prevention and early diagnosis to complex surgical interventions. Some of the most common pathologies are:
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- Atherosclerosis: Build-up of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
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- Peripheral artery disease (PAD): Obstruction of the arteries that supply the limbs, causing pain, cramps, and, in severe cases, amputation.
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- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Formation of blood clots in the deep veins, which can be dangerous if they travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
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- Varicose veins: Swollen and twisted veins, usually in the legs, which can cause pain, heaviness, and aesthetic complications.
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- Aneurysms: Abnormal dilation of an artery, with the risk of rupture and internal bleeding.
Diagnosis and Treatments Available in Ecuador
Accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment. In Ecuador, Dr. Peralvo uses cutting-edge technology, including:
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- Doppler ultrasound: Allows evaluation of blood flow in real-time.
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- Angiography: Visualization of blood vessels using X-rays with contrast.
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- Computed tomography (CT) and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Detailed images of blood vessels.
Treatments vary depending on the disease and its severity. These may include:
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- Conservative treatments: Medications, lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, quitting smoking), and compression.
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- Minimally invasive procedures: Balloon angioplasty, stent placement, sclerotherapy for varicose veins.
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- Open surgery: Vascular bypass, endarterectomy, aneurysm repair.
Postoperative Care and Prevention
After vascular surgery, it is crucial to follow the specialist’s recommendations. This may include:
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- Taking prescribed medication as directed.
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- Monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol.
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- Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet.
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- Exercising regularly.
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- Avoiding smoking.
Prevention is essential for maintaining good vascular health. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits and undergoing regular medical check-ups can help detect and treat vascular diseases in their early stages. For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit Dr. Peralvo’s website.
Additional resources:
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- Federación Argentina de Cardiología y Cirugía Vascular (Relevant information at the regional level)
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- American Heart Association (Information on heart and vascular diseases)