When Should You See a Vascular Surgeon?
Vascular surgery is a specialized field of medicine that deals with diseases of the arteries and veins throughout the body — essentially, the blood vessels that carry blood to and from every organ and tissue. Yet many patients are unsure when they need to see a vascular surgeon rather than their general practitioner or another specialist.
What Does a Vascular Surgeon Do?
A vascular surgeon diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the circulatory system outside the heart. This includes arteries that carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body, and veins that return blood back to the heart. Vascular surgeons use a combination of medical management, minimally invasive endovascular procedures, and open surgery to treat these conditions.
Signs You Should See a Vascular Surgeon
1. Varicose Veins
If you have visible, bulging veins on your legs that cause aching, heaviness, or swelling, a vascular surgeon can assess whether treatment is needed. Modern treatments are minimally invasive and highly effective.
2. Leg Pain When Walking
Pain or cramping in the calves, thighs, or buttocks that occurs with walking and improves with rest (claudication) may indicate peripheral arterial disease — a condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the legs.
3. Non-Healing Wounds
Wounds on the feet or legs that don't heal within a few weeks, especially in patients with diabetes, may be a sign of poor circulation and warrant vascular evaluation.
4. Swollen or Painful Leg
Sudden swelling, redness, and pain in one leg could indicate deep vein thrombosis (DVT) — a blood clot that requires urgent treatment to prevent potentially life-threatening complications.
5. Aortic Aneurysm
If you've been told you have an aortic aneurysm on a scan, a vascular surgeon will determine whether monitoring or treatment is needed.
6. Neck Bruit or Carotid Stenosis
If your doctor hears a bruit (whooshing sound) over your neck arteries, or if imaging shows carotid artery narrowing, a vascular surgeon can assess your stroke risk and discuss prevention options.
7. Arm Pain and Numbness
Pain, numbness, and tingling in the arm — especially with overhead activities — may indicate thoracic outlet syndrome, a condition vascular surgeons specialise in treating.
When to Seek Urgent Care
Some vascular conditions require emergency attention. Seek immediate medical care if you experience:
- Sudden, severe abdominal or back pain (possible ruptured aneurysm)
- Sudden weakness, numbness, or speech difficulty (possible stroke)
- Sudden shortness of breath with leg swelling (possible pulmonary embolism)
- A suddenly cold, pale, or painful limb (possible acute limb ischaemia)
How to Get a Referral
You can be referred to a vascular surgeon by your GP, cardiologist, endocrinologist, or any other specialist. In Dubai, you can also book directly with Dr. Medani at Mediclinic Welcare Hospital or Mediclinic Dubai Mall.
Early assessment and intervention can prevent serious complications. If you have any concerns about your vascular health, don't hesitate to seek specialist advice.