Your arteries are made up of three layers of cells: the tunica intima, the tunica media, and the tunica adventitia. The tunica intima is actually a single layer of endothelial cells. These cells are used as lining in many parts of your body. They provide a smooth surface for the blood to flow on. In addition, the endothelial layer is a functioning system that secretes different products and responds to different stimuli from the blood vessels and tissues. The tunica media or middle layer of the artery contains the muscle cells and other structural and elastic fibers that contract and dilate the artery. One of the signs of arterial aging is a loss of the pliability of the muscle cells in the tunica media and a loss of ability to distend. The tunica adventitia, the outer layer, contains the artery's support system - tiny blood vessels that feed the artery and nerves that respond to signals and control the artery's contraction and dilation. Like arteries, veins are also made of three layers. However, veins do not contract like arteries. Veins in the lower part of your body have one-way valves to counteract the effects of gravity and prevent blood from flowing back into the feet. Veins in the upper part of the body have no valves because gravity itself brings the blood back \"down\" to the heart. Unfortunately, valves can be damaged and weakened over time. Varicose veins are caused by leaky valves that allow blood to pool and bulge in the veins of the legs. Unlike arteries and veins, capillaries are made of a single layer of endothelial cells. Scattered throughout the capillary is a second type of cell called pericytes. These are smooth muscle-like cells that provide the capillary with the ability to contract. They also help feed the capillaries and control the exchange of nutrients and wastes.

Visceral fat is a type of body fat that’s stored within the abdominal cavity. It’s located near several vital organs, including the: liver, stomach, intestines. It can also build up in the arteries.

Lateral branch varicose vein - lateral accessory saphenous vein - CT volume rendering

Varicose veins - Dilated varices on False color MRI

Velcro bandage with pac-band for foot and ankle. For compression therapy, indicated for Lymphedema, Chronic venous insuffiency and Post thrombotic syndrome