The ASE Echovation Challenge Promotes Innovation

Serving clients at Spectrum Dermatology & Vein Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, Dr. Rajan Bhatt has extensive experience in cardiology and internal medicine. Professionally, Dr. Rajan Bhatt belongs to organizations such as the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE).

Created to support medical professionals working with cardiovascular ultrasound technology, ASE pursues a variety of endeavors in areas ranging from advocacy to research. As part of its effort to encourage innovation in the field, the society launched the Echovation Challenge in 2015 following its Strategic Planning Retreat.

The Echovation Challenge exists to promote the creative use of cardiovascular ultrasound technologies and to serve as a catalyst for the discovery of new techniques for caring for patients with cardiovascular conditions. Each year the challenge climaxes with a finals event held in a different city.

In 2018, the finals for the Echovation Challenge took place in Nashville, Tennessee, where three teams selected from the international submissions competed for the prize. The winning team was led by Dr. Achiau Ludomirsky and known as Team On-Sight, and showcased a technology known as an Ultrasound Translator, which employed artificial intelligence and guided imagery to assist operation of ultrasound operators by nonexperts.

Varicose Veins During Pregnancy

 

Varicose Veins
Image: webmd.com

Dr. Rajan Bhatt, a cardiologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona, is the CEO and founder of Spectrum Dermatology and Vein Center. There, Dr. Rajan Bhatt provides patients with clinical expertise related to conditions such as varicose veins.

Varicose veins result when blood collects in blood vessels, causing them to become enlarged. These veins can be painful, causing noticeable discomfort and symptoms such as tenderness, pain, swelling, cramping, or itching. The condition most often occurs in a patient’s legs.

Women can develop varicose veins while pregnant. During pregnancy, a woman’s blood flow increases. As she gains weight and produces extra hormones, varicose veins may appear. The veins often shrink after the baby is born. The condition affects between 10 and 20 percent of pregnant women. While there isn’t one specific way to prevent varicose veins from forming, several lifestyle changes may be helpful.

–Stay off your feet. By elevating their legs when sitting down, pregnant women can help prevent blood from pooling in the legs. When a job requires a pregnant woman to be on her feet for long periods, experts suggest alternately resting each leg on a stool or chair while standing.
–Exercise. Cardiovascular activity helps blood keep glowing at a healthy rate throughout the body.
–Wear comfortable clothing. Avoid restrictive items such as tight belts, shoes, or socks.
–Watch weight gain. Gaining an appropriate amount of weight during pregnancy can help alleviate additional stress on the body.
-Focus on nutrition. A heart-healthy diet rich in nutrients not only helps the developing baby, but also the mother’s cardiovascular health. Prenatal vitamins are helpful supplements.

When pregnant women notice varicose veins, they should bring the condition to the attention of their physician. The doctor will monitor the veins throughout the pregnancy and may recommend consultation with a vein specialist.