Had my Interventional Radiologist Appointment

Seen a PA with the IR department this morning. She double checked some of the findings from the tests I had ran a little over a week ago and also went over those test results. She took time to explain all the findings, what the numbers mean an discussed what my options are and where we need to go from here.

All in all she spent about an hour with me.

While I was expecting the news to not be good it was worse than I thought it was going to be. Based on my test results I have at least one complete or nearly complete blockage in my left leg and my right leg is showing at least a 75% blockage. (I had an arterial ultrasound along with the various blood pressure tests on my legs).

After considering my options and talking it over with the PA we decided the next thing to do is an MRA (arterial MRI) to map the blood flow and pinpoint all the slowdowns and blockages. After that it really looks like it is going to be an angioplasty with stent emplacement and the MRA will let the doctor determine how much they can do at once, where to start, etc before going in.

From the sound of things though it looks like I will have to go through the angio at least twice as she does not think they will be able to do both sides at once due to having to use too much contrast if it is all done at once.

My MRA is scheduled in about 2 weeks and then 2 days after that I go back for a consult with the doctor who will actually do the procedures assuming that is what is indeed called for by the results from the MRA. I have been warned though that if the blockage(s) in my left leg are too severe that I may facing a bypass.

Wow Jim, that's a lot of info to take in. I can understand your worry but at least they have found the problem and it can be fixed. Hang tough and take it one day at a time. Let us know how the next few weeks go.

Suzane

Hi Jim I'm sorry to hear this news. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Please keep us updated as you can.

hugs
Loretta

Wow, I'm glad you went to the doctor when you did. Sounds like the doctors are taking the right steps to make sure you get the best care. Try not to worry!!!