Condition/Disease FAQs

What is aortic disease?
Aortic disease is characterized by weakness in the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the lower body.

What is carotid disease?
Carotid disease occurs when there’s blockage in the arteries that carry blood to the brain, which is one major cause of stroke.

What is chronic venous disease/venous insufficiency?
Chronic venous disease refers to other conditions, such as varicose and spider veins, that occur when vein valves don’t pump blood properly.

What is deep vein thrombosis?
Deep vein thrombosis happens when blood clots form in the deep veins, causing pain and swelling in an arm or leg. These clots can lead to a life-threatening condition, pulmonary embolism, if they break free and travel to the lungs.

What is hyperhidrosis?
Hyperhidrosis is the severe sweating of the palms when not caused by heat or exercise.

What is interventional oncology?
Interventional oncology refers to the diagnosis and treatment of cancer-related conditions, including biopsies, tumor ablation or cryotherapy, catheter-directed chemotherapy, and cancer-related pain treatment.

What is peripheral arterial disease?
Peripheral arterial disease is characterized by blockage in the arteries of the legs that may lead to pain in the legs with walking or poorly healing wounds in severe cases.

What are spider veins?
Spider veins are small, damaged blood vessels visible through the skin. They are not painful, although many choose to treat them for cosmetic reasons.

What is uterine fibroid embolization?
Uterine fibroid embolization treats fibroids without invasive surgery by blocking the blood supply to the fibroids.

What are varicose veins?
Varicose veins are swollen, gnarled veins visible through the skin that can cause pain and discomfort in severe cases.

Procedure FAQs

Can I pre-register for my procedure?
Yes. We strongly encourage you to complete all the registration forms before the day of your procedure.

Will I need to stay overnight after my procedure?
No, all procedures performed at Vascular & Vein Institute of Siouxland are minimally invasive outpatient procedures.

What if I cannot make my appointment?
Please notify us as early as possible if you cannot make your scheduled appointment. Early notification helps us better accommodate you and other patients.

What should I wear on the day of my procedure?
Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes. For a complete list of what to do and what not to do on the day of your procedure, please visit our Before Procedure Checklist.

Why must I refrain from eating and/or drinking prior to my procedure?
You refrain from eating and/or drinking prior to your appointment in order to prevent the risks of aspirating gastric contents during your procedure. This complication is very serious and you need to strictly abide by our recommendations.

Should I take my usual daily medication?
Please provide your physician with a list of all medications you’re taking prior to your procedure. They will give you instructions on which ones are safe to take before your procedure.

May I continue my herbal medications?
Herbal medications may have harmful effects on the procedure. Please provide your physician with a list of all herbal medications you’re taking prior to your procedure. They will give you instructions on which ones are safe to take before your procedure.

Who may accompany me?
You are welcome to bring one person with you. That person will be allowed to be in your suite with you before your procedure.

Should I bathe and wash my hair before leaving home?
Yes. You can comfortably take a shower, bathe, brush your teeth, etc. Please do not use makeup, hairspray, nail polish, lotions, perfumes, or other toiletries.

What should I do if I am not feeling well the week of my procedure?
If you are not feeling well, please contact your physician immediately. There are some procedures that are safer if delayed when you are sick.

What should I do if I become pregnant before my procedure?
If you are pregnant, please contact your physician immediately. Depending on the procedure, your appointment may need to be rescheduled.

May I drive home?
We ask that all patients have a ride home. Patients will not be allowed to drive, walk, or take public transportation after sedation or anesthesia. Please make the appropriate arrangements.

May I speak to my anesthesiologist before the procedure?
All patients will be seen by the anesthesiologist prior to their procedure. You will have sufficient time to have all of your questions answered.

What do I need to bring with me on the day of my procedure?

  • Your insurance card
  • A method of payment for copay or deductible, if applicable
  • A case or holder for glasses, contacts, dentures or hearing aids, if applicable