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Vascular surgeons deal with all veins and arteries within the body, except for the brain and the heart.

Oxygen-rich blood is carried through the veins to the heart and without this process the body is unable to function. Treatment by angiography, stenting and non-operative varicose vein treatment are quickly taking the place of major surgery. These procedures shorten hospital stays and lower mortality rates, therefore providing a financial benefit.

When surgery is necessary, endovascular surgery is mostly carried out using minimally invasive techniques. Vascular surgeons provide these treatments such as angioplasty and stents. Open surgery is used to remove blockages from blood vessels or to bypass a blocked vessel.

Vascular surgeons treat a wide variety of conditions including:

• Carotid artery disease: Plaque builds up inside the carotid arteries, which carry blood to the neck and head
• Critical limb ischemia: Severe blockage in the arteries of the lower extremities, reducing blood flow.
• Venous disease: Where veins become abnormal or diseased, including the treatment of varicose veins
• Lymphoedema: Swelling caused by accumulation of fluid in the body’s tissue
• Diabetes can affect vascular health adversely and may result in foot problems due to peripheral arterial disease.

Renal vascular disease: Conditions that affect the circulation of the arteries and veins, affecting the kidneys.