Vascular Surgery: What It Is, When You Need It, and How to Prepare
The circulatory system functions like a bustling city. Just as major expressways and highways transport vehicles, the arteries and veins carry blood throughout the body. However, similar to a traffic jam, blood clots or blockages at any point can hinder blood flow and disrupt the entire system. Vascular surgery can address these problems and prevent serious complications.
Addressing Vascular Disease
Vascular disease refers to a variety of conditions that affect the arteries, blood vessels, veins, and small capillaries responsible for carrying blood. It also includes issues related to the lymphatic system, which consists of the tiny vessels that transport a fluid called lymph, containing infection-fighting white blood cells, from the tissues back into the bloodstream. Some common vascular conditions include:
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): The narrowing or blockage of the vessels that carry blood from the heart to the legs.
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: A swelling in the aorta, the artery that carries blood from the heart to the abdomen.
- Carotid Artery Disease: Narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the brain, increasing stroke risk.
When Is Vascular Surgery Necessary?
The need for vascular surgery depends on the specific condition. If diagnosed early, some vascular issues can be managed with lifestyle changes or medications. For certain patients, surgery may enhance quality of life and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Types of vascular surgery include:
- Portacath placement and removal: A small medical device inserted under the skin to allow easy access to veins for long-term treatments.
- Peripheral arterial atherectomy, balloon angioplasty, and stent placement: Procedures to open narrowed arteries and restore proper blood flow.
- Renal and mesenteric artery angioplasty: Techniques to widen narrowed arteries in the kidneys or intestines.
- Venogram and venous stenting: Imaging and treatment used to identify and open blocked veins.
- Thrombectomy of dialysis access: Removal of blood clots from dialysis grafts or fistulas.
- Shuntogram: An imaging procedure to evaluate the function of a dialysis shunt.
- IVC filter insertion and removal: Placement or removal of a filter in the inferior vena cava to prevent blood clots from reaching the lungs.
- Groshong catheter placement: A central line inserted for long-term IV access, often used for medications or nutrition.
- Permcath placement: A catheter inserted for hemodialysis access, typically used for longer-term treatment.
- Carotid angiogram: An imaging test used to assess blood flow in the carotid arteries leading to the brain.
- Venous ablation: A procedure to close damaged veins, often used to treat chronic venous insufficiency.
Recovering From Vascular Surgery
Depending on the type of surgery, patients may need to recover in the hospital's intensive care unit. Some procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis. As vascular disease is a chronic condition, patients may need to have regular follow-up appointments with their vascular surgeon throughout their lives. Therefore, patients should seek a trusted, experienced vascular surgeon for ongoing treatment and care.
Schedule an Appointment with an Experienced Vascular Surgeon
Vascular surgery can treat various conditions affecting the heart and lymphatic system. At Carient Heart & Vascular, our physicians offer advanced procedures and compassionate care, often right in the comfort of our outpatient offices. We have eight office locations in Virginia and offer virtual telemedicine appointments. Contact us today to learn more about vascular surgery or to schedule an appointment with one of our renowned physicians.