Vascular Surgeon

Every system in the human body has a purpose. They help us move, breathe, think, and react. The vascular system, with its spectacular abilities, is no exception. Vascular Surgeons know this, and work to keep blood pumping throughout the body.

Vascular Surgeons also respond when there’s a blockage or other life-threatening emergency. Typically, though, they don’t handle cases that directly involve surgery of the brain or heart, as those areas are handled by Neurosurgeons.

As a Vascular Surgeon, you see patients in an office, clinic, or hospital setting. To get a feel for what’s going on with the patient, you ask questions and evaluate symptoms. You might also order noninvasive tests in an effort to “see” the patient from the inside out.

With a diagnosis in hand, you create a treatment plan. That might mean putting the patient on medication or heading into surgery.

Out of your office and in the operating room, the surgeries you face commonly help fix damage from disease or blood flow issues. For example, you might insert a stent, use a catheter to open an artery, or even create a new path for blood vessels.

Every case is different, so this job gives you variety. One day, you might see several patients in your office; another day, you’re in the emergency room assisting Trauma Surgeons and Cardiac Surgeons. This career provides a rewarding sense of satisfaction, and keeps you challenged with new technology and treatment options.