Vascular surgeon

A vascular surgeon is a medical specialist who examines and treats conditions affecting the blood vessels. These include the arteries and veins throughout almost the entire body. Only the blood vessels of the heart and brain fall under other specialities. 

What does a vascular surgeon do?

A vascular surgeon treats, among other things, narrowing of the arteries, varicose veins, aneurysms (enlargements 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?

The GP refers someone to a vascular surgeon when there are indications of a blood vessel condition. An internist, cardiologist or dermatologist may also refer patients. The vascular surgeon investigates the cause of the complaints and discusses which treatment is most suitable.

Common conditions include:

• Peripheral arterial disease (intermittent claudication).

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm.

• Carotid artery stenosis.

• Varicose veins.

• Thrombosis and other conditions affecting the veins.

• Poorly healing wounds due to reduced blood circulation.

What does a vascular surgeon do?

During the first visit, the vascular surgeon discusses the complaints, health and lifestyle. This is followed by a physical examination. The doctor often supplements this with an ultrasound scan, Doppler examination, CT scan or MRI scan to visualise the blood vessels properly.

Surgery is far from always necessary. Treatment often begins 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 angioplasty, inserting a stent or performing 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 during walking. This causes pain or cramping, meaning that people increasingly have to stop and stand still for a while.

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

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 on an active lifestyle and preventing new vascular problems.