Treating Peripheral Arterial Disease and Venous Disease
Many people experience pain in their legs when they walk. This can be a very complex problem. You may be experiencing leg pain as a result of major nerve damage or compression, disease of the nervous system caused by diabetes, venous problems, arterial disease, or any combination of these.
A vascular surgeon’s role in the treatment of PAD is vital, particularly early in the disease course. Vascular surgeons dedicate their entire training to addressing the full spectrum of vascular health and disease and can provide comprehensive vascular care to patients. If you have leg pain when walking, it is important to have a discussion with your doctor or cardiologist on the appropriateness of having a vascular surgeon involved in your care.
Schedule an Appointment
To schedule a referral or make an appointment, please call us at 806-340-0550 or schedule your appointment online.
Causes of Leg Pain
Peripheral Arterial Disease
One of the major causes of leg pain, particularly among older adults, is peripheral arterial disease (PAD), which is when plaque builds up in the arteries of the legs. This is a similar disease pattern to what is seen in the heart. Our leg muscles, like our heart, need constant and adequate blood flow to function. PAD leads to narrowing or even complete blockage of the blood vessels of the legs. When the leg muscles do not get enough blood flow, they hurt. This can also lead to increased risk for foot wounds which dramatically increases the risk for amputation.
Venous Disease
Another potential cause of leg pain is venous disease. Veins bring blood from our legs back to our heart. If there is any damage or blockage of these main highways, it can lead to leg discoloration, swelling, pain and even non-healing wounds. Vascular surgeons provide comprehensive care of the venous system.
Treatment Options
There are many treatment options for peripheral arterial disease and venous disease. These include:
- Medical therapy
- Minimally invasive endovascular interventions
- Traditional open surgery
- Hybrid surgery, which is a combination of both open and endovascular approaches
- Varicose vein removal or ablation
- Stenting of the venous system
Meet the Surgeon
Bradley J. Trinidad, MD, is a highly trained vascular surgeon. He understands that each patient is different, and the best course of treatment is dependent on the patient's unique situations and anatomy. Invasive intervention is not always the answer. Dr. Trinidad will customize your treatment to meet your needs, from medical therapy to surgery, and will use minimally invasive techniques whenever possible.