With the completion of renovations to its cardiac catheterization lab, McLaren Oakland has expanded its cardiovascular services to include the early diagnosis and treatment of peripheral vascular disease (PVD). The renovations to the cath lab mark the first step in an effort to expand the cardiovascular capabilities at McLaren Oakland, which includes additional board-certified cardiologists joining the health system-owned McLaren Cardiovascular Institute.
PVD is a blockage and narrowing of the blood vessels in the limbs, causing decreased blood flow. According to the American Heart Association, 10 million Americans suffer from PVD, killing 830,000 annually and resulting in 160,000 amputations. Additionally, a strong correlation exists between PVD and the development of more serious heart diseases.
Early diagnosis and treatment of PVD-through medication or minimally-invasive procedures-can increase a patient's quality of life and significantly reduce the chances of developing serious heart disease.
"An unmet need exists for early PVD diagnosis and treatment in Oakland County," said Loraine Cusumano, regional director of the McLaren Cardiovascular Institute for Macomb and Oakland. "With these renovations bringing enhanced capabilities, we can provide quality, comprehensive care right on-site."
Many patients do not present with any symptoms of PVD, but typical symptoms include pain in the legs-especially when walking-cool skin, loss of hair and thinning of skin on the legs and skin ulcers.
Interventional procedures are performed by McLaren Cardiovascular Institute interventional cardiologists at Mount Clemens-based McLaren Macomb. Through a concierge program, patients are provided transportation while their families are met by a patient experience representative and escorted to their loved one.
Additionally, the McLaren Cardiovascular Institute has added board-certified cardiologists John Quen Dickey, DO, and Melissa Ianitelli, DO.
To learn more about the cardiology care provided through the McLaren Cardiovascular Institute, visit mclarenheart.org.