Understanding Peripheral Vascular Disease with Dr. Jenna Caporaso Kazil

Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) affects millions, yet many don’t recognize the warning signs until complications arise. In this episode of the Get Healthy Tampa Bay Podcast, Dr. Kerry Reller sits down with Dr. Jenna Caporaso Kazil, a board-certified vascular and general surgeon, to discuss arterial and venous diseases, their symptoms, treatment options, and prevention strategies. Whether you're experiencing leg pain, swelling, or just want to optimize your circulatory health, this episode is packed with expert insights!

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD)

• PVD is categorized into arterial disease (restricted blood flow to the legs) and venous disease (issues with blood returning to the heart).

• Symptoms vary—arterial disease often presents as leg pain with walking (claudication) and hair loss on the legs, while venous disease causes swelling, heaviness, and skin discoloration.

2. Risk Factors and Prevention

• Genetics play a role, but lifestyle factors like smoking, prolonged standing, obesity, and lack of exercise significantly increase risk.

• Preventative measures include compression stockings, regular exercise (especially walking or pool therapy), and maintaining a healthy weight.

• Smoking cessation is one of the most critical steps to improving vascular health.

3. Diagnosis and Treatment

• Diagnosis often involves ultrasound studies, ankle-brachial index (ABI) tests, and other imaging to assess blood flow.

• Initial treatments focus on lifestyle changes, compression therapy, and medication before considering surgical options.

• Minimally invasive procedures like laser ablation, sclerotherapy, and radiofrequency treatments can improve venous insufficiency, while arterial blockages may require angioplasty or bypass surgery.

4. What to Look for in a Vascular Specialist

• Not all vein clinics are created equal—seeing a board-certified vascular surgeon ensures comprehensive care and appropriate treatment recommendations.

• Some vein clinics may not be operated by vascular specialists, so it’s important to research the provider's qualifications.

5. Other Areas of Expertise

• Dr. Kazil also specializes in robotic hernia repair and breast surgery, particularly breast cancer treatment and ultrasound-guided biopsies.

Conclusion:

Peripheral vascular disease is common, but early detection and lifestyle changes can prevent serious complications. If you're experiencing leg pain, swelling, or skin changes, don’t ignore the symptoms—seek a specialist who can properly diagnose and guide you through the best treatment options. Whether it’s compression therapy, minimally invasive procedures, or lifestyle adjustments, prioritizing vascular health can dramatically improve your mobility and overall well-being.

About Our Guest – Dr. Jenna Caporaso Kazil

Dr. Jenna Caporaso Kazil is a board-certified vascular and general surgeon with extensive experience treating arterial and venous diseases, aneurysms, hernias, and breast conditions. She is passionate about improving patient outcomes through minimally invasive procedures and comprehensive vascular care. Dr. Kazil currently practices in Bradenton and Sun City Center, Florida, where she provides expert surgical care for a wide range of vascular and general surgical conditions.

For more information, visit floridasurgicalclinic.com or contact her office at 727-SURGERY (727-787-4379) or 941-SURGERY (941-787-4379).