This specialty involves the surgical and medical treatment of arteries and veins.
Our vascular surgeons work closely with vascular scientists, who use a vascular (Doppler) ultrasound scan together with the traditional ultrasound to map the filling of the blood vessels and the direction, pattern and speed of blood flow.
Common vascular conditions we treat at Bupa Cromwell Hospital
Abdominal aortic aneurysm
This tends to affect men over the age of 60 where there is a localised widening of the aorta, carrying blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Ultrasound and CT scanning are used to detect the site and size of the aneurysm which is then treated surgically.
Carotid stenosis
Carotid artery stenosis is the narrowing of the carotid arteries. These are the main arteries in the neck that supply blood to the brain. Carotid artery stenosis, also called carotid artery disease, is a major risk factor for ischaemic stroke. This is the most common form of stroke and is usually caused by a blood clot plugging an artery. It is usually treated by surgery that removes the plaque that caused the carotid artery to narrow.
Varicose veins
Varicose veins are swollen, irregular shaped veins that often develop in the legs, particularly on the calves. They are caused by a weakening of the vein wall, causing it to widen. If this happens, valves in the veins that prevent blood flowing in the wrong direction, back down the legs, may stop working properly and affect circulation. Surgery can be used to remove varicose veins that are painful.
Other conditions we treat
In addition we treat:
