Vascular Surgeons: Who They Are and What They Do

Blood vessels are used by the circulatory system to transport blood and nutrients to all parts of the body. Vascular surgery is done by vascular surgeons, experts in treating diseases of the vascular system. If parts of the circulatory system are not functioning properly then the body cannot function properly.

Vascular surgeons see patients that have vascular health issues. Oftentimes treatment may not require surgery. Many vascular problems can be treated with medication or lifestyle adjustments, such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercise. 

Patients are usually referred to a vascular surgeon by their primary care physician if they have regular pain in their legs or are in a high-risk category for vascular disease. Vascular disease can be a long-term condition, so vascular surgeons may treat their patients for decades. It is common for vascular surgeons to have these lasting relationships with their patients because vascular disease can be a condition that spans decades.