C. John Sperati, M.D., M.H.S.
Primary Location: Johns Hopkins Outpatient Center (now called Levi Watkins, Jr., M.D., Outpatient Center), Baltimore, MD
The treatment of FMD varies depending on the blood vessels involved and an individual’s particular symptoms. High blood pressure due to FMD of the kidney arteries can be treated with medications, and in many cases, we may be able to improve or cure the high blood pressure by opening the narrowed segments in the arteries. Historically, surgery was often used to bypass the narrowed vessels. Currently, surgery is very rarely performed, and patients are now treated with balloon angioplasty. Other blood vessels- such as arteries to the brain- can be managed conservatively, with balloon angioplasty, or with surgery depending on the circumstances. Aspirin is often prescribed, and individuals with splitting of the arterial walls may be treated with blood thinners. In patients who smoke, smoking cessation is critically important.
Many physicians are unfamiliar with FMD, its diagnosis, and management. Imaging studies and interventions for FMD cannot be interpreted and performed using criteria commonly applied to other vascular diseases. It is important to seek evaluation at a center experienced in the care of FMD.
Johns Hopkins has assembled a team of physicians dedicated to the care and management of patients diagnosed with FMD. This multidisciplinary team includes Nephrology, Vascular Medicine, Interventional Cardiology, Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Vascular Surgery.
Patients interested in being evaluated at Johns Hopkins should call 410-955-5268 (option #4) to request an evaluation with Dr. C. John Sperati.
Primary Location: Johns Hopkins Outpatient Center (now called Levi Watkins, Jr., M.D., Outpatient Center), Baltimore, MD