Why consult an angiologist for lipedema?
As part of the treatment of your lipedema, you’re likely to come into contact with an angiologist: here are a few pointers to help you make sense of the situation.
What is an angiologist?
The word angiologist comes from the Greek“angeius” meaning vessel, and theangiologist, also known as a vascular physician, is a specialist in diseases of the vessels (arteries, veins and lymphatics) and venous pathologies. They should not be confused with phlebologists, who specialize in the treatment of varicose veins.
Angiology and phlebology are relatively recent specialties, having emerged from the field of cardiology in the late 1940s.
It is involved in the diagnosis of lipoedema , notably through ultrasound – Doppler, which visualizes the patient’s vessels and guides therapeutic management.
The “big legs” syndrome
Fat legs” can be the result of many causes, not only vascular, but also cardiac, renal and rheumatic (sprain sequelae, osteoarthritis of the knee, bone fracture sequelae of the lower limbs), particularly after the age of sixty. Weight gain, lack of exercise, unbalanced diet and a sedentary lifestyle can also play a major role.
In younger women, vascular pathologies predominate: venous and lymphatic, alone or associated with cellulite and lipedema.
An examination to explore subcutaneous tissues where fat deposits are located. At the end of the examination, he will decide on the best course of treatment, in coordination with a plastic surgeon familiar with lipedema.
How a consultation works
The angiologist will ask you about your medical history, any venous surgeries you may have had, current treatments, previous pregnancies, whether you have relatives who also suffer from vascular pathologies…
Next comes a critical examination, focusing particularly on the legs, with observations and palpations (in particular, peripheral pulses (on the popliteal artery, the dorsal artery of the foot, the femoral artery…)). After this, the angiologist will decide whether an ultrasound and/or an echo-doppler are necessary. Appropriate management will be put in place according to your case.
Why consult an angiologist for lipedema? – How can I prepare for my visit?
Don’t forget to bring recent test results and prescriptions: scans, MRIs, X-rays, blood tests, operation reports, etc. Ask your family if they have a history of vascular problems.
Interview with Dr Michèle Cazaubon: angiologist specializing in lipedema.
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