Tuesday, February 27, 2018

Varicose Veins Involving Superficial Blood Clots


Serving patients throughout New York, board-certified Dr. David Greuner leads NYC Surgical Associates as co-founder and managing director. Known for his pioneering minimally invasive techniques, Dr. David Greuner handles complex conditions such as varicose veins and blood clots. 

Varicose veins are characterized as twisted, swollen veins that protrude visibly just under the skin’s surface. The blood flow through the veins can become labored and sluggish, with the possible result of a superficial blood clot forming. Also known as phlebitis or superficial thrombophlebitis, this condition is associated with tenderness, pain, and leg swelling. 

The positive news is that, unlike the deep vein thrombosis (DVT) blood clots associated with deep veins, superficial clots do not typically travel to the lungs. This avoids the risk of a pulmonary embolism, or a blood clot of the lungs, occurring. However, in some cases severe blood clots in the varicose veins can result in DVT. For this reason, it is important to seek counsel with an experienced physician at the first sign of vein-related issues.

Wednesday, February 14, 2018

Where Cycling Trumps Running


Baylor University alumnus Dr. David Greuner received his medical training at St. George’s University. After completing residency programs in Arizona and New Jersey, he was accepted as a Fellow in cardiothoracic surgery at Montefiore Medical Center. Following the completion of his fellowship, Dr. David Greuner co-founded NYC Surgical Associates, where he practices privately. A fitness advocate, he enjoys cycling during his free time.

Cycling has numerous health benefits; as a matter of fact, the UK’s National Health Services recommends cycling at least 150 minutes per week in order to build cardiovascular fitness. Some experts even recommend cycling over other types of exercise such as running.

While running helps individuals get fit, it is also a high-impact activity that might be hard on the lower extremities. Cycling, on the other hand, achieves the same effect by mobilizing the legs and increasing the heart rate without pounding on the joints. In this regard, League of American Bicyclists President Andy Clarke claims that cycling is a great cardio workout for those who are recovering from injury. It can also be a great cross-training option for those who want to preserve the knees for long-distance running.

Wednesday, February 7, 2018

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Surgery


After receiving his medical degree from St. George’s University, Dr. David Greuner served as a resident at Banner Health in Arizona and Atlantic Health in New Jersey. He then completed his fellowship in cardiothoracic surgery at Montefiore Medical Center in New York. He currently functions as the managing director of NYC Surgical Associates, where he advocates for and practices minimally invasive surgery.

Minimally invasive surgery refers to any type of surgery that utilizes a range of techniques that leaves less damage to the body as compared to open surgery. To perform these types of surgeries, modern technology such as fiber-optic cameras (also known as laparoscopes) and even robots are used to aid the surgeon. There are currently many types of minimally invasive surgical procedures, which are used for almost every type of organ, from the adrenal glands to the heart.

There are four major benefits associated with minimally invasive surgery:

1. Minimally invasive procedures are considered safer, as they subject the body to less trauma, which translates into less blood loss.

2. Due to the small size of the incisions, it just takes a stitch or two to close the wound. This results in a reduced risk for scar tissue formation.

3. Quicker recovery times have been observed among those who undergo minimally invasive procedures. Compared to traditional surgery patients, who typically recover within the span of six to eight weeks, minimally invasive surgery patients need just two weeks to recover fully in most instances.

4. Reduced recovery times also means that patients don't have to stay long in the hospital. Traditionally, patients need to stay in the hospital for several days following surgery to observe for complications. With minimally invasive surgery, patients may go home in less than a day following the procedure.