Vascular surgeon

A vascular surgeon is a medical specialist who examines and treats diseases of the blood vessels. These include the arteries and veins throughout almost the entire body. Only the blood vessels of the heart and brain are covered by other specialties. 

What does a vascular surgeon do?

A vascular surgeon treats, among other things, narrowed arteries, varicose veins, aneurysms (widening of a blood vessel) and problems with blood circulation in the arms and legs.

Blood vessels supply oxygen and nutrients to muscles, skin and organs. If blood circulation decreases, symptoms such as pain when walking, cold feet or wounds that heal poorly may occur.

When do you see a vascular surgeon?

A GP refers you to a vascular surgeon if there are indications of a blood vessel disorder. An internist, cardiologist or dermatologist may also refer patients. The vascular surgeon investigates the cause of the symptoms and discusses which treatment is most suitable.

Common conditions include:

• Peripheral arterial disease (intermittent claudication).

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm.

• Narrowing of the carotid artery.

• Varicose veins.

• Thrombosis and other vein disorders.

• Poorly healing wounds due to reduced blood circulation.

What does a vascular surgeon do?

During the first visit, the vascular surgeon discusses your symptoms, health and lifestyle. This is followed by a physical examination. The doctor often supplements this with an ultrasound, Doppler examination, CT scan or MRI scan to obtain a clear view of the blood vessels.

Surgery is far from always necessary. Treatment often starts with lifestyle advice, stopping smoking, medicines and an exercise programme. If this approach does not produce sufficient results or blood circulation is severely reduced, the vascular surgeon performs a procedure. Examples include an angioplasty, insertion of a stent or a bypass operation.

The relationship between the vascular surgeon and the physiotherapist

A vascular surgeon regularly works with a physiotherapist. This is particularly the case with intermittent claudication. Narrowing of the arteries means that too little oxygen-rich blood reaches the leg muscles while walking. This causes pain or cramping, meaning that people increasingly need to stop and rest.

For this condition, supervised walking therapy is usually the first step in treatment. The vascular surgeon therefore often refers patients to a physiotherapist who specialises in peripheral arterial disease. Regular walking under supervision increases walking distance, improves fitness and reduces symptoms. Angioplasty or surgery is only considered if this treatment has insufficient effect or blood circulation remains severely restricted.

The physiotherapist also plays an important role after a procedure. Treatment then focuses on improving fitness and muscle strength and regaining confidence when moving. You will also receive advice about an active lifestyle and preventing new vascular problems.