Vascular Surgery
Vascular Surgery In Southern New Mexico
Are you over the age of 70? Are you over 50 and have a history of smoking or diabetes? Under 50 and have a history of diabetes with other vascular disease risk factors, including obesity, hypertension and heart disease?
If so, you could be at risk for vascular disease, a condition that affects one in 20 Americans over the age of 50, according to the National Institutes of Health. Oftentimes, individuals with vascular disease/peripheral artery disease (PAD) do not experience symptoms – just one reason why regular wellness exams and screenings are so important.
The Las Cruces vascular surgeons with MountainView Medical Group offer a full range of diagnostic and treatment services for PAD and conditions of the body’s vascular (blood vessel) and lymphatic systems
Conditions Treated
Vascular specialists in Southern New Mexico may provide treatment for the following conditions. (Please note: this list is not comprehensive.)
- Aortic aneurysm: An aneurysm is a bulge in the artery. An aortic aneurysm is a bulge that occurs in the body’s biggest blood vessel, the aorta, which transports blood from the heart to the rest of the body. (This condition is also known as “abdominal aortic aneurysm” or “AAA.”) AAAs can be life-threatening if they rupture, which is why many Southern New Mexico vascular surgeons recommend quick treatment. This condition primarily affects older males and smokers.
- Aortic dissection: This is a medical emergency that occurs when the inner layer of the aorta tears. Such an event can cause severe and sudden pain in the chest or upper back, shortness of breath, and loss of consciousness. This event is most common in older males.
- Carotid artery disease for stroke prevention: Patients with high cholesterol may experience plaque build-up within the carotid arteries (major blood vessels in the neck that carry blood from the heart to the brain). Other risk factors for carotid artery disease (CAD) include smoking, high blood pressure and diabetes. Your Las Cruces vascular specialists may be able to maximize blood flow to the brain through surgical and/or medical techniques. This can help reduce the risk of stroke.
- Varicose veins: These thick, large ropy veins in the legs are benign in many cases. However, many patients desire treatment for cosmetic reasons. Still, other cases of varicose veins can be associated with symptoms such as pain, poor circulation, and skin problems. It is important to see a physician for an evaluation. If varicose veins are not causing symptoms, patients may see their primary care provider for an initial evaluation. In some cases, patients may be referred to a vascular specialist in Las Cruces.
Find a Vascular Surgeon in Southern New Mexico
MountainView Medical Group partners with minimally invasive surgeons from The Vascular and Cardiothoracic Group of Southern New Mexico and Southern New Mexico Vascular Specialists. Find a vascular surgeon in the Southern New Mexico/West Texas areas.
Las Cruces Vascular Surgeons
Alfredo Gurmendi, M.D.
Dr. Alfredo Gurmendi is a board-certified vascular and thoracic surgeon in Las Cruces, NM. He trained at University of Texas Medical School at Houston, University of Oklahoma, and Boston University. He is fluent in English and Spanish.
Michael Keller, M.D.
Dr. Michael Keller is a fellowship-trained vascular surgeon who has been practicing in Las Cruces since 2002. Dr. Keller brings more than 25 years of experience to the area.
Cheryl Lombardi, CNS
Cheryl Lombardi is a clinical nurse specialist who works closely with Dr. Keller to care for patients with vascular issues. She also serves as an assistant professor of nursing in Las Cruces at New Mexico State University.