Vascular surgeon

A vascular surgeon is a medical specialist who examines and treats diseases of the blood vessels. This concerns the arteries and veins in almost the entire body. Only the blood vessels of the heart and the brain fall under other specialties. 

What does a vascular surgeon do?

The vascular surgeon treats, among other things, narrowing of the arteries, varicose veins, aneurysms (widening of a blood vessel) and problems with the blood supply to the arms and legs.

Blood vessels provide oxygen and nutrients to all body tissues such as muscles, skin and organs. If the blood supply decreases, symptoms arise such as pain when walking, cold feet or wounds that heal poorly.

When might you see a vascular surgeon?

The GP refers to a vascular surgeon if there are indications of a blood vessel disorder. An internist, cardiologist or dermatologist can also refer patients. The vascular surgeon investigates the cause of the symptoms and discusses which treatment fits best.

Common conditions are:

• Peripheral arterial disease (intermittent claudication).

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm.

• Carotid artery stenosis.

• Varicose veins.

• Thrombosis and other disorders of the veins.

• Poorly healing wounds due to reduced blood flow.

What does a vascular surgeon do?

During the first visit, the vascular surgeon discusses symptoms, health and lifestyle. A physical examination then follows. The doctor often supplements this with an ultrasound, Doppler test, CT scan or MRI scan to visualise the blood vessels clearly.

Surgery is not always necessary. Treatment often starts with lifestyle advice, stopping smoking, medication and/or an exercise programme. If this approach gives insufficient results or the blood flow is severely reduced, the vascular surgeon performs a procedure. Examples are angioplasty, placing a stent or bypass surgery.

The relationship between the vascular surgeon and the physiotherapist

Especially with intermittent claudication there is collaboration between the physiotherapist and the vascular surgeon. Due to narrowing of the arteries, too little oxygen-rich blood reaches the leg muscles while walking. This causes pain or cramp, forcing people to stop more and more often to recover before they can continue walking.

In this condition, supervised exercise therapy (a walking programme) is usually the first step in treatment. The vascular surgeon therefore often refers to a physiotherapist who specialises in peripheral arterial disease. Walking regularly under supervision increases walking distance, improves fitness and reduces symptoms. Only if this treatment has insufficient effect do angioplasty or surgery come into view.

After vascular surgery or angioplasty the physiotherapist also plays an important role. Treatment then focuses on improving fitness, muscle strength and regaining confidence in movement. In addition, you will receive advice on an active lifestyle and preventing new vascular problems.