Carotid Artery Disease & Aortic Aneurysms with Dr. Jenna Kazil

We’re back with another important health conversation! This week, I’m joined by Dr. Jenna Kazil, a double board-certified vascular and general surgeon, to talk about two life-saving topics: carotid artery disease and aortic aneurysms. 🧠❤️ Whether you're a provider or just interested in your vascular health, this episode is packed with must-know info to help prevent strokes and ruptures.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

✔ What is Carotid Artery Disease?
Carotid artery disease occurs when blockages form in the arteries supplying the brain, increasing stroke risk. Dr. Kazil explains how plaque builds up at specific points in the arteries due to factors like smoking, genetics, and high blood pressure.

✔ Warning Signs & Symptoms to Know
Symptoms can range from transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) to sudden vision loss in one eye (amaurosis fugax). Some people may have no symptoms and only show an abnormal sound (bruit) on a neck exam.

✔ Screening & Diagnosis
Dr. Kazil emphasizes the importance of listening for bruits during exams and using ultrasound to measure the velocity of blood flow. Severity is classified based on the level of narrowing.

✔ Treatment Options for Carotid Disease
Dr. Kazil walks through three procedures:
1️⃣ Carotid Endarterectomy (open surgery)
2️⃣ Transfemoral carotid stenting
3️⃣ TCAR (Transcarotid Artery Revascularization), her preferred minimally invasive option.

✔ Aortic Aneurysms Explained
An aortic aneurysm is a ballooning of the aorta that can lead to deadly rupture. Risk factors include genetics, high blood pressure, and smoking.

✔ When to Screen for Aortic Aneurysms
Screening is recommended for men over 65 who have smoked, and for individuals with a family history of aneurysms.

✔ Repair Options for Aneurysms
Dr. Kazil explains minimally invasive endovascular repairs vs. open surgical repair, with a focus on reducing rupture risk.

✔ Importance of Prevention
Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and avoiding tobacco are key steps to preventing both conditions.

Conclusion:

Vascular health is often overlooked until it becomes an emergency. This episode is a crucial reminder to be proactive about screening and to understand the treatment options available. Whether it’s preventing strokes through carotid artery interventions or avoiding life-threatening aneurysm ruptures, the right knowledge can truly save lives.

About Our Guest:

Dr. Jenna Kazil is a double board-certified vascular and general surgeon practicing in Bradenton and Sun City Center, Florida. She treats a wide range of conditions including arterial disease, aneurysms, hernias, and more. Dr. Kazil is passionate about helping patients understand their vascular health and utilizes both traditional and advanced minimally invasive techniques to provide the best outcomes.

You can learn more about her at floridasurgicalclinic.com or by calling 727-SURGERY (727-787-4379).