Vascular surgeon

A vascular surgeon is a medical specialist who examines and treats disorders of the blood vessels. This concerns the arteries and veins in almost the entire body. Only the blood vessels of the heart and the brain fall under other specialties. 

What does a vascular surgeon do?

The vascular surgeon treats, among other things, arterial narrowings, varicose veins, aneurysms (widening of a blood vessel), and problems with blood flow to the arms and legs.

Blood vessels supply oxygen and nutrients to all body tissues such as muscles, skin, and organs. If blood flow decreases, symptoms arise such as pain while walking, cold feet, or wounds that heal poorly.

When do you see a vascular surgeon?

The family doctor refers to a vascular surgeon if there are indications of a blood vessel disorder. An internist, cardiologist, or dermatologist can also refer patients. The vascular surgeon investigates the cause of the symptoms and discusses which treatment fits best.

Common conditions are:

• Peripheral arterial disease (intermittent claudication).

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm.

• Carotid artery stenosis.

• Varicose veins.

• Thrombosis and other venous disorders.

• Poorly healing wounds due to reduced blood flow.

What does a vascular surgeon do?

During the first visit the vascular surgeon discusses symptoms, health, and lifestyle. A physical examination follows. The doctor often supplements this with an ultrasound, Doppler test, CT scan, or MRI scan to visualize the blood vessels well.

Surgery is not always necessary. Treatment often starts with lifestyle advice, quitting smoking, medication, and/or an exercise program. If this approach gives insufficient results or blood flow is severely reduced, the vascular surgeon performs a procedure. Think of angioplasty, placing a stent, or a bypass operation.

The relationship between the vascular surgeon and the physical therapist

Especially with intermittent claudication there is cooperation between the physical therapist and the vascular surgeon. Due to narrowings in the arteries, too little oxygen-rich blood reaches the leg muscles during walking. This causes pain or cramps, making people have to stop more and more often to recover before they can continue walking.

In this condition, supervised walking therapy is usually the first step in treatment. The vascular surgeon therefore often refers to a physical therapist who specializes in peripheral arterial disease. Regular walking under supervision increases walking distance, improves fitness, and reduces symptoms. Only if this treatment has insufficient effect do angioplasty or surgery come into view.

After a vascular operation or angioplasty the physical therapist also plays an important role. Treatment then focuses on improving fitness, muscle strength, and regaining confidence while moving. In addition, you receive advice on an active lifestyle and preventing new vascular problems.