Vascular specialists are doctors trained to diagnose and treat conditions that affect the vascular system, which includes arteries, veins, and lymphatic vessels. These medical professionals provide both medical and surgical interventions for diseases related to blood flow, ensuring proper circulation and the health of organs and tissues.
Common Vascular Conditions
Vascular specialists treat a wide range of conditions that can affect anyone, though some, like varicose veins or diabetic foot complications, are more common among specific groups of patients.
- Varicose Veins: These are swollen, twisted veins often visible just under the skin. They occur when the valves in the veins malfunction, causing blood to pool. Treatments such as sclerotherapy (an injection-based procedure) and endovenous thermal ablation (using heat to close the vein) are common solutions offered by specialists like Dr. Desmond Ooi.
- Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): This condition involves the narrowing of arteries, typically in the legs, leading to reduced blood flow. Treatment often involves lifestyle changes, medication, or procedures like angioplasty to open up the arteries.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A serious condition where blood clots form in deep veins, typically in the legs. If left untreated, it can lead to life-threatening complications like pulmonary embolism.
Procedures Performed by Vascular Specialists
Vascular specialists use a variety of minimally invasive techniques and surgeries to treat vascular conditions. Some of the common procedures include:
- Sclerotherapy: This is a non-surgical treatment for varicose and spider veins. A solution is injected into the affected veins, causing them to close and gradually disappear.
- Endovenous Ablation: This involves using heat or radiofrequency energy to close varicose veins, a procedure that is often used when veins are too large to be treated with sclerotherapy alone.
- Angioplasty and Stenting: Used to open blocked arteries, particularly in cases of PAD. A balloon is inflated within the artery, and sometimes a stent (a small mesh tube) is left in place to keep the artery open.
- Diabetic Foot Management: Patients with diabetes often experience poor circulation, which can lead to severe foot problems, including ulcers and infections. Vascular specialists help prevent and treat these complications through careful monitoring and treatment.
Why You Should See a Vascular Specialist
It’s important to seek the care of a vascular specialist if you have any signs of poor circulation, such as leg pain, swelling, or non-healing wounds. Specialists like Dr. Desmond Ooi, who is a senior consultant in vascular and general surgery in Singapore, are equipped to handle a wide range of vascular conditions and provide comprehensive care. Whether through preventative care or surgical intervention, vascular specialists aim to improve your quality of life and prevent complications.
For more information about vascular treatments and to explore your options with Dr. Desmond Ooi, visit www.drdesmondooi.com.sg
