Before most people even start their day, a vascular surgeon is already busy looking at scans, checking on patients who just had surgery, and getting ready for procedures that could change or even save someone’s life. Vascular surgeons are experts in caring for the body’s blood vessels and preventing vascular disease.
They treat serious problems like life-threatening aneurysms, poor blood flow in the legs, and painful vein issues. Some treatments help people walk without pain, and many don’t even require big surgeries.
These doctors use the latest tools and technology, along with their medical knowledge, to treat complex problems in the arteries, veins, and lymph system. With diseases like peripheral artery disease (PAD) and aortic aneurysms affecting millions of people, their work is essential to saving limbs and lives.
“Vascular disease is more common than many realize,” says Dr. John Danks, a vascular surgeon at St. Joseph’s Health. “Unfortunately, it often goes unnoticed until symptoms become severe. Early detection is key and that begins with awareness.”
What exactly does a vascular surgeon do? Let’s explore what vascular disease is, what a typical day looks like, and most importantly, how to keep your veins and arteries healthy and strong.
What Is Vascular Disease?
Vascular disease refers to conditions that affect the body’s network of blood vessels, mainly the arteries and veins, that carry oxygen and nutrients throughout the body.
When these vessels become narrowed, blocked, or weakened, it leads to poor circulation. The consequences can be serious, ranging from chronic leg pain to stroke, or even loss of a limb.
Common Types of Vascular Disease
Vascular disease encompasses several conditions that impact your circulation. Here are some of the most common forms:
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Caused by plaque buildup that narrows the arteries in the legs, reducing blood flow. Symptoms include cramping, weakness, and pain when walking.
- Aneurysms: A weakened area of an artery that bulges and may rupture, causing internal bleeding and life-threatening complications.
- Varicose Veins: Twisted, enlarged veins that can lead to discomfort, skin changes, and chronic swelling.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg, which can travel to the lungs and cause a serious condition called a pulmonary embolism.
- Carotid Artery Disease: A narrowing of the arteries in the neck that supply blood to the brain, which can increase the risk of stroke.
“These conditions often develop without obvious symptoms,” notes Dr. Danks. “Routine check-ups and specific vascular screenings are important, especially for people with risk factors like smoking, high blood pressure, or diabetes.”
Inside a Vascular Surgeon’s Day
Early Morning: Rounds and Diagnostic Consults
The day starts early for surgeons, who often check on patients after surgery to make sure they are recovering well. They also review imaging and lab results. New patient consultations are common too. Surgeons see people referred for symptoms like leg pain, dizziness, or an aneurysm found during an ultrasound.
“Someone might come in with leg discomfort, only to learn they have PAD. Or we might monitor a small aneurysm, knowing a quick intervention could prevent a future emergency,” Dr. Danks explains.
Midday: Procedures and Surgical Interventions
By late morning, the focus shifts to procedures. Vascular surgeons perform both traditional vascular surgery and minimally invasive interventions, often using image-guided tools.
Some common procedures include:
- Angioplasty and Stenting: A small balloon is used to open a narrowed artery. Then a tiny mesh tube called a stent is placed to keep it open and improve blood flow.
- Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR): A less invasive procedure where doctors use a stent graft to strengthen a weak part of an artery and prevent it from bursting.
- Bypass Surgery: A healthy blood vessel is used to create a new route for blood to flow around a blocked artery.
- Vein Treatments: Procedures like sclerotherapy and ablation are used to treat varicose veins and other vein problems, helping relieve pain, swelling, and other symptoms.
Urgent cases, such as a ruptured aneurism or a severe blood vessel clot, can alter the day’s plans fast.
“You adapt quickly,” Dr. Danks emphasizes. “Timing is critical. A delay of even an hour can mean the difference between preserving function and facing long-term complications. These are the moments where preparation, experience, and decisiveness truly define outcomes.”
Afternoon: Patient Follow-Ups and Preventive Care
Later in the day, time is devoted to follow-up care and education. The main goal is to help patients avoid surgery by changing their habits and using medicine. Doctors talk with patients about how to lower their health risks, take their medication the right way, and make healthy changes to their daily habits.
“A large part of our work is managing vascular disease through preventive care,” Dr. Danks encourages. “Quitting smoking, controlling blood sugar, and staying active can reduce vascular risk.”
How to Protect Your Blood Vessel Health
The good news? Artery damage and many vascular conditions are preventable or manageable with consistent care and healthy habits.
Some easy ways to keep your blood vessels strong and functioning properly include:
- Don’t smoke, or get help to quit
- Exercise regularly (even daily walks make a difference)
- Eat a heart-healthy, balanced diet
- Manage chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol
- Stay hydrated and avoid long periods of sitting or standing
Regular check-ups and screenings are extra important for people with risk factors or a family history of vascular disease. Finding problems early can help prevent serious health issues later on.
“Prevention is powerful,” reassures Dr. Danks. “With small, steady lifestyle changes, people can significantly reduce their risk of vascular disease and often avoid surgery altogether.”
When to See a Vascular Surgeon
Taking care of your vascular health starts with regular check-ups and open communication with your doctor. If you have leg pain when walking, swelling in your legs, skin changes, or a history of vascular problems, don’t wait to get help. Primary care physicians often refer patients to vascular specialists for further evaluation and treatment.
Thanks to advances in minimally invasive technology, many conditions can now be treated with outpatient procedures and short recovery times.
“We’re able to offer effective treatment options without the need for major surgery in most cases,” Dr. Danks says. “Our goal is always to help patients return to normal life: stronger, safer, and healthier.”
Your First Step to Vascular Health
Your vascular health is central to your overall well-being. Don’t ignore symptoms, and don’t wait until there’s a crisis. If you or a loved one may be at risk, schedule a vascular screening or speak to your healthcare provider about your concerns.
For more information or to schedule a consultation with Dr. John Danks and the team at St. Joseph’s Health, visit our website today!
