How do I know I need to see a vascular surgeon?
Typically, patients are referred to a vascular surgeon by their primary care physician. Sometimes patients become acquainted with a vascular surgeon after an unexpected event lands them in the hospital. You might be referred to a vascular surgeon if you see your regular doctor for pain in your legs, and learn that you have peripheral arterial disease, for example. If you are in a high-risk category: are a smoker, diabetic, and/or have high blood pressure, you may be a candidate for starting a relationship with a vascular surgeon.
We are proud to be the first Vascular Office in Michigan to receive Joint Commission Office Based Surgery accreditation
Why Vascular Institute of Michigan?
Vascular surgeons are specialists who are highly trained to treat diseases of the vascular system. Your blood vessels –arteries carrying oxygen-rich blood and veins carrying blood back to the heart — are the roadways of your circulatory system. Without smoothly flowing blood, your body cannot function. Conditions such as hardening of the arteries can create “traffic jams” in your circulatory system, obstructing the flow of blood to any part of the body.
Vascular Surgeons manage veins and arteries in every part of the body except the brain and the heart. For example, vascular surgeons handle blocked carotid arteries in the neck. They treat the problems of the aorta (a large main artery) after it leaves the heart and enters the abdomen. Peripheral vascular disease, which often affects the arteries in the legs and feet, also is treated by a vascular surgeon
A vascular surgeon does far more than surgery. A vascular surgeon makes sure patients with vascular health issues know and understand all their options. In short, vascular surgeons can do surgery, but they see and treat many patients who don’t require surgery. Many vascular problems can be treated with medication or exercise.
A vascular surgeon is able to do every kind of procedure. Some specialists specialize in one or two kinds of vascular interventions, so their patients tend to get those treatments. Vascular surgeons are trained in everything: open, complicated surgery and in minimally invasive, endovascular procedures. Some patients need one, some need the other, while many need no surgery at all. Vascular surgeons are “treatment agnostic,” that is, they don’t prefer any kind of treatment over another. Patients can be assured they will get the best treatment for their particular need.
The Vascular Institute of Michigan is especially dedicated to preserving function of the lower extremities and offering advanced limb salvage and preservation options. With appropriate treatment, most amputations can be prevented. The Vascular Institute of Michigan provides comprehensive and advanced treatment alternatives to amputation.
Got Knee Pain?
You may be a candidate for an exciting new vascular procedure called Genicular Artery Embolization!
Have you been diagnosed with osteoarthritis of one or both knees?
Have you tried and failed physical therapy, pain, steroid, or gel injections?
Have you had chronic knee pain, stiffness, swelling, tenderness, weakness, or instability?
Have you had trouble with everyday activities, like walking or climbing stairs?
Have you been told that a knee replacement is your only remaining option?
Have you had a knee replacement in the past, but still experience significant pain?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you have options!
At the Vascular Institute of Michigan, our highly skilled doctors, advanced facilities, and comprehensive care team are here to provide expert support for your knee health.
Be sure to check out our GAE patient testimonials at the bottom of the page!
Knee Osteoarthritis (OA)
Knee Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of knee pain in adults.
Knee OA is characterized by the breakdown of the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones in the knee. This leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced joint mobility.
Factors that contribute to the development of Knee OA include aging, genetics, joint injuries, obesity, and repetitive stress on the knee joint.
