Q: Is dr Lugo A Vascular surgeon?

A: No Dr. Lugo is not a vascular surgeon. Dr. Lugo only does vascular access in the form of ports for chemo or other medications and also treats vein disease of the lower extremities that appear in the form of varicose veins or other ways like nonhealing ulcers or leg swelling.

PORTS

Q: What is a port?

A: A port a cath is a device (see image below) that is placed under the skin, usually in the upper chest, and then attached to a catheter. the catheter is placed into a major vein to access the central vasculature and that way infuse the medication planned without damaging the smaller veins in the arms or legs. 

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Q: Do I need anesthesia for a port placement?

A: Yes, it is recommended that at least sedation is given when placing these ports. 

Q: How long does the port ahs to stay in place?

A: The port will be in place for the duration of the treatment being received.

Q: How is the port removed?

A: The port is removed in some instances in the office with local anesthetic only by opening the incision used to insert it in the upper chest and then pulling it out and resuturing the incision. Sometimes we opt to do this at the hospital with some sedation. It depends on the specific condition and medical state of the patient.

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VARICOSE VEINS

Q:What are varicose veins?

A: Varicose veins are dilated veins that have malfunctioned and at times could be the sign of a deeper and larger problem. They come in different sizes and shapes.

Q: How are varicose veins treated?

A: We usually treat the veins using a variety of modalities from injecting sclerosing agents when they are small, surgical avulsion or removal to get rid of the larger ones or at times radio frequency (RF) ablation to treat the main trunk when it is defective.

Q: When is radiofrequency used?

A: Varicose veins are sometimes a sign of a larger problem. These are smaller vessels being fed by a major trunk called the greater saphenous vein. This larger vein has valves and when they go bad the vein dilates and the blood pools on the legs damaging the smaller vessels and dilating them. We need to treat the main trunk by shutting it down with radiofrequency to eliminate the varicose veins and prevent others from appearing. 

Q: Are varicose veins the only sign of vein problems?

A: No, varicose veins are only one sign of vein problems. Many patients have no visible signs and the only thing they experience is leg swelling, nonhealing ulcers, skin discoloration, restless legs at night, itchy legs, and aching of the legs. IT is important to notify your doctor if you have any of these symptoms as these may be a sign of a more serious problem.

Q: What happens if I have a vein problem and I do not treat it?

A: A vein problem in the legs can lead to ulcerations and discoloration that can turn into major issues. These ulcers can get infected and lead to loss of limb. Early detection of vein problems can prevent these complications. Varicose veins are not always "just cosmetic" IT is important to assure that the main veins are not damages. 

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Vascular access and vein disease are very personal conditions and treatment options have to be customized to the individual. For a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan, come see us and we will determine your specific needs and recommend accordingly. 

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