Vascular Surgery
The vascular system (also known as the circulatory system) is the name given to the series of organs that are responsible for transporting nutrients, gas and waste both to and from the cells of the body. In simpler terms, the vascular system is all of the arteries and veins in the human body.
Vascular surgeons are trained to diagnose and treat all diseases of the vascular system (excluding those affecting the brain and heart, which are usually left to neurosurgeons and cardiovascular surgeons, respectively). Until recently, vascular surgery was considered a field within general surgery. Today, it is considered to be a specialty.
5 Things You Need to Know
- Vascular problems are common and can be quite serious. The people who are most at risk include smokers and the obese.
- Some vascular conditions that may require surgical intervention include aneurysms, carotid artery disease, deep vein thrombosis, lymphedema, ischemia, pulmonary embolism and varicose veins.
- Some of the most common procedures in the field of vascular surgery include vein stripping, laser vein treatment, thrombectomies, angioplasty, carotid stenting and bypass surgery.
- Most vascular surgeries are performed on arteries, rather than veins. Arteries are blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart.
- If you experience symptoms like cold or numb hands or feet, you may have problems with your circulation.
3 Questions You Need to Ask Your Doctor
- Does my vascular condition require surgery?
- What do I need to do to prepare for vascular surgery?
- How long will the recovery process be?
Also Known As: Circulatory surgery
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