What Vessels Do Vascular Surgeons Treat?

The human body is an advanced machine with specialised systems for each task—like the digestive, nervous, and excretory systems. Similarly, we have a “plumbing” system, a network of specialised tubes that transport blood and fluids between the heart and various body parts.

This intricate system of vessels is called the circulatory system, and vascular surgeons are experts in maintaining vascular health & treating its diseases.

The Circulatory System and Vessels

The tubular structures or the ‘pipes’ of this plumbing system are called ‘blood vessels’ and are of three primary types - arteries, veins and capillaries.

Additionally, the lymphatic vessels constitute the lymphatic system which functions closely with the blood vessels to maintain fluid balance.

Here’s an overview of the blood vessels & lymphatic vessels:

Continue reading to explore the range of conditions that vascular surgery addresses.

What Are Some Common Conditions Affecting the Vessels?

Some of the most common conditions of the vessels, treated by a vascular surgeon are:

Arterial Diseases:

• Peripheral Arterial Diseases (PAD) - Narrowing of the artery in the limbs reducing blood flow.
• Arterial Aneurysms - Bulging or ballooning of the artery due to weakening of the wall
• Carotid Artery Disease - Narrowing or blockage of the carotid arteries (major vessel in the neck), which can lead to strokes.
• Diabetic Foot - A condition where poor circulation and nerve damage in diabetic patients lead to foot ulcers, gangrene and in severe cases, amputation.

Venous Diseases

• Varicose Veins - Swollen, tortuous veins in the leg that are often visible on the skin.
• Deep Vein Thrombosis - Formation of blood clots (thrombus) in the deep veins, often in the legs.
• Varicocele - Enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, often causing pain or fertility issues.

Why Choose a Vascular Surgeon?

Vascular surgeons are experts in treating all types of blood vessel disorders and their complications. With extensive training, they are skilled at both minimally invasive techniques and open surgeries to ensure the best outcomes.

• Timely Detection: By early diagnosis and timely intervention, vascular surgeons can prevent stroke or amputation, and salvage limbs that are at risk of severe damage.
• Specialized Expertise: They are proficient in the latest, most advanced techniques and are particularly capable of managing unexpected challenges during and after procedures.
• Comprehensive Care: Vascular surgeons offer customised treatment plans, ranging from lifestyle changes and medication to interventional procedures, with surgery recommended only when necessary.
• Long-Term Solutions: Regular follow-up using Doppler tests, helping prevent disease recurrence.

Take Home Message

Blood vessels—arteries and veins—function like a two-way traffic system, with arteries carrying blood away from the heart and veins bringing it back. When blood flow is blocked or restricted, it can lead to severe complications like stroke or gangrene.

Vascular surgeons are experts in diagnosing and treating these conditions. Early detection and prompt intervention can help prevent stroke or amputation, ensuring better long-term outcomes for patients.

FAQs

What Are the Most Common Vascular Surgeries Performed in India?

Some of the most common surgeries performed by vascular surgeons in India are:

• Peripheral Angioplasty: Opens narrowed or blocked arteries in the limbs, improving blood flow.
• Arteriovenous (AV) Fistula Creation: Creates a connection between an artery and a vein, typically for dialysis access.
• Varicose Veins Treatment: Removes or seals off damaged veins, relieving discomfort and improving appearance.
• Carotid Artery Surgery: Removes plaque buildup in the carotid arteries to reduce stroke risk.
• Endovascular Repair of Aneurysms: Minimally invasive repair of aneurysms, usually in the aorta, to prevent rupture.

What Is the Difference Between Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) and Carotid Artery Disease?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) affects the ‘coronary arteries’ supplying blood to the heart, leading to chest pain or heart attacks.

Carotid artery disease affects the carotid arteries in the neck, which supply blood to the brain, increasing stroke risk if blood flow is blocked.?

Both diseases are forms of atherosclerosis but impact different areas of the body. Carotid artery disease is treated by vascular surgeons, while coronary artery disease is managed by cardiothoracic surgeons.