What is Vascular Surgery?
Vascular surgery is a surgical specialty that deals with diseases of the blood vessels. It is a relatively new specialty, having been founded in the early 1970s. The first residency program was started at the University of Minnesota in 1973.
The specialty of vascular surgery is divided into two main branches: open surgery and endovascular surgery.
Open surgery is the traditional form of surgery, where the surgeon makes a large incision in the patient’s body in order to access the blood vessels. Endovascular surgery is a newer form of surgery that uses tiny instruments and a camera to access the blood vessels through small incisions.
Vascular surgery is a highly specialized field, and there are only a few hundred surgeons in the United States who specialize in it. The majority of vascular surgeons are based in large metropolitan areas, and there are few rural areas that have vascular surgeons.
Treating a variety of diseases and conditions, including:
- Atherosclerosis
- Aneurysms
- Arterial occlusive disease
- Carotid artery disease
- Venous thromboembolism
- Varicose veins
- Wound care
Vascular surgery is a life-saving procedure in many cases. For example, an aortic aneurysm is a life-threatening condition that can lead to a ruptured aorta. If the aneurysm is detected early, it can be treated with surgery. It is a highly specialized field, and patients should seek out a vascular surgeon who is experienced in treating the specific condition that they have.