Southeastern Florida’s Comprehensive Vascular Care Center

Vascular Care FAQs

What does a vascular specialist treat?

A vascular specialist diagnoses and treats conditions affecting the blood vessels outside of the heart, including arteries and veins. This includes peripheral artery disease (PAD), carotid artery disease, aneurysms, and circulation issues that can affect the legs, kidneys, and other parts of the body. Care often focuses on restoring healthy blood flow, reducing the risk of complications like stroke, and improving symptoms such as pain or swelling.

What’s the difference between a vascular doctor and a vascular surgeon?

A vascular doctor focuses on diagnosing and managing vascular conditions, often using non-surgical or minimally invasive treatments. A vascular surgeon has specialized training to perform procedures when needed, including both minimally invasive interventions and traditional surgery. Many specialists today are trained in both approaches, allowing them to recommend the most appropriate treatment based on your condition rather than defaulting to surgery.

When should I see a vascular specialist?

You should consider seeing a vascular specialist if you have symptoms like leg pain when walking, numbness or weakness in the limbs, slow-healing wounds, or noticeable changes in skin color or temperature. You may also be referred if you have known risk factors such as diabetes, smoking history, or high blood pressure, or if imaging has shown blocked or narrowed arteries.

Are vascular conditions serious?

Some vascular conditions can be serious if left untreated, especially those that affect blood flow to critical areas like the brain or limbs. For example, carotid artery disease can increase stroke risk, and advanced PAD can lead to tissue damage. The good news is that many vascular issues can be effectively managed or treated when identified early, which is why timely evaluation is so important.

What treatment options are available for vascular conditions?

Treatment depends on the condition and its severity, but often starts with lifestyle changes and medication to improve circulation and reduce risk factors. Many vascular specialists also offer minimally invasive procedures, such as angioplasty or stenting, that can restore blood flow with shorter recovery times. In more complex cases, surgical intervention may be recommended to achieve the best long-term outcome.

How are vascular conditions diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically begins with a physical exam and a review of your symptoms and medical history. Non-invasive tests such as ultrasound, ankle-brachial index (ABI), or vascular imaging are often used to assess blood flow and identify blockages or narrowing. These tools help your specialist determine the severity of the condition and guide the most appropriate treatment plan.