Vascular Surgery Patient Information

Vascular disease includes any condition that affects your circulatory system. Common examples of vascular disease include hypertension, stroke, aneurysms and peripheral vascular disease. You may also see peripheral vascular disease referred to as peripheral artery disease.

The vascular experts at The Iowa Clinic can diagnose and provide treatments for the different types of vascular disease. Sometimes vascular surgery is a necessary part of treatment. This is especially true for individuals diagnosed with peripheral vascular disease.

What Is Peripheral Vascular Disease?

Peripheral vascular disease is a build-up of plaque in the arteries outside of your heart (peripheral arteries) that reduces the flow of blood. As a result of this build-up, some parts of your body don’t get the oxygen they need. Frequently, this narrowing of the arteries — called atherosclerosis — is not confined to one area of the body. It may involve arteries in other areas as well. Some of the more commonly affected peripheral arteries are in the legs, arms, kidneys and neck.

Numerous problems can result from untreated peripheral vascular disease. These can range from leg pain during physical activity to deterioration of skin leading to ulcers and gangrene. If a condition is severe, it may require open vascular surgery or endovascular interventions, such as angioplasty or stents. In addition, the weakening of the arteries, particularly of the aorta, can result in aneurysms. Rupture of weakened arteries may cause bleeding and even death.

How Do We Treat Different Types of Vascular Disease?

Vein surgeons at The Iowa Clinic can repair aortic aneurysms with stent-grafts and open surgery. Acute leg swelling due to blood clots may need treatment with drugs or interventions. Varicose veins or leg ulcers caused by leg problems may need intensive medical treatment, surgery or other interventions. If a condition — such as peripheral vascular disease — is severe, it may require open vascular surgery or endovascular interventions, such as angioplasty or stents.

Explore Treatment Options at The Iowa Clinic

You can learn more about treatment options for various vascular conditions on our Vascular Surgery Services & Treatments page. We also recommend completing our vein assessment form to start a conversation with one of our specialists and take the first step toward better health.