Vascular Surgery

Vascular surgery is a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis and management of diseases affecting the vascular system, including arteries, veins, and lymphatic vessels. This specialty covers a wide range of conditions, from simple issues like varicose veins to more complex diseases such as peripheral artery disease.

Scope of Vascular Surgery

Vascular surgeons treat conditions using both surgical and non-surgical methods. These include open surgery, minimally invasive procedures (endovascular interventions), and hybrid approaches to address disorders affecting blood flow and vessel integrity.

Common Conditions Treated

• Peripheral artery disease: Narrowing or blockage of arteries that reduce blood flow to the limbs.
• Carotid artery disease: Hardening or narrowing of the arteries supplying blood to the brain, increasing the risk of stroke.
• Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism (PE): Blood clots form in deep veins that may travel to the lungs, causing serious complications.
• Varicose veins and venous insufficiency: Conditions causing vein enlargement and blood pooling, often accompanied by pain and swelling.
• Lymphedema: Swelling in limbs due to blockage in the lymphatic system.

Investigations

Diagnosis of vascular diseases relies on investigations to determine the location and extent of the problem, commonly including:

• Ultrasound (Doppler): To visualize blood flow within vessels and detect abnormalities.
• Computed tomography angiography (CTA): Provides detailed images of blood vessels.
• Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA): Non-invasive imaging to visualize vascular structures in detail.
• Contrast angiography: Involves injecting a contrast dye to highlight blockages or abnormalities in vessels.

Treatment Methods

Treatment plans depend on the disease type, severity, and overall patient health. Common treatment approaches include:

• Medications: To control risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, and to prevent clots.
• Lifestyle modifications: Including a healthy diet, exercise, and smoking cessation.
• Varicose vein injections: Injection of a special solution into enlarged veins to close them and improve blood flow.
• Minimally invasive procedures (endovascular therapy): include balloon angioplasty (vessel dilation) or stent placement.
• Open surgery: Including bypass surgery or vessel repair.
• Hybrid therapy: A combination of open surgery and minimally invasive procedures, used in complex cases.