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| IVS achieves CQC registration at all sites |
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| Endovenous Laser Treatment, (EVLT), has revolutionized the industry as an innovative treatment for varicose veins. |
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| | Cardiovascular Screening |
| IVS Ltd has recently entered into a collaboration agreement with the largest private hospital outside London, the BMI Alexandra Hospital in Cheadle, Manchester, to provide Cardiovascular Health Screening. |
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| | NHS 'must test for sudden death' |
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| | Stroke ? early intervention is essential |
| It is essential that patients are offered a carotid artery duplex assessment within days of a mini-stroke or stroke. |
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| | DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) |
| Research proves short haul DVT fear |
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Stroke ? early intervention is essential
Recent research has shown that patients who suffer a mini-stroke or stroke caused by narrowing of the carotid artery (in the neck) are less likely to have a further or more severe stroke if they are operated on within 2-3 weeks of their original symptoms.
This means that patients attending their GP with these symptoms should be investigated within days by duplex ultrasound, a painless procedure, which can rapidly determine the severity of narrowing of arteries and lead to prompt action.
The limited availability of appropriate high quality colour duplex ultrasound imaging instruments and a shortage of fully trained vascular scientists often results in waiting times of more than 2-3 months for carotid investigations in the NHS. There is a risk of recurrent stroke during this interval. Furthermore, recent published evidence confirms that this delay greatly reduces the effectiveness of carotid surgery or angioplasty for the prevention of further stroke.
IVS is helping to reduce waiting times by forming partnerships with both NHS and Private Hospitals offering them rapid and flexible services. In hospitals with an existing IVS contract, approximately 70-80% patients referred for carotid artery duplex are seen within 2 weeks and 100% are seen within four weeks. We are working in partnership with our NHS clients to reduce these waits even further.
If you have suffered a stroke or a mini stroke (TIA or Transient Ischaemic Attack) and are waiting to see a hospital specialist, you may want to discuss with your GP how an appropriate carotid investigation might be done. This will almost always involve travelling to a local vascular centre, but if the waiting times are long you may need to consider investigation in the independent sector or even privately. Private duplex imaging of the carotid will usually cost of between ?200 to ?400. At IVS the cost for this investigation would be ?189.50 + VAT.
If you live in Greater Manchester or the North West of England, your GP could contact IVS, or you could request further information by e-mail info@ivs-online.co.uk or by telephone 0161 291 4037.
Article published: 16/03/2005
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