Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often from patients and families.
What does a vascular specialist treat?
A vascular specialist diagnoses and treats conditions that affect blood flow in the arteries and veins. These conditions can include peripheral arterial disease (PAD), venous insufficiency, knee arthritis, chronic wounds, circulation problems in the legs, and other vascular disorders that may cause pain, swelling, or difficulty healing.
What is interventional radiology?
Interventional radiology (IR) is a medical specialty that uses advanced imaging and tiny catheters to treat disease from inside the blood vessels. These minimally invasive procedures allow many patients to receive effective treatment without major surgery, large incisions, or long recovery times.
How do I know if my leg pain is serious?
Occasional muscle soreness can be normal, but persistent leg pain — especially pain that occurs when walking or at rest — may be related to circulation problems. A vascular evaluation can help determine whether blood flow issues may be contributing to your symptoms.
Are these procedures considered surgery?
Most endovascular procedures are minimally invasive, meaning they are performed through a very small access point using a catheter. Because there are no large surgical incisions, recovery is typically faster and patients can go home the same day.
Will I be awake during the procedure?
Most procedures are performed using local numbing medication and light sedation. This allows you to remain comfortable and relaxed while the medical team performs the procedure safely.
How long do procedures usually take?
Most procedures take between one and three hours depending on the type of treatment being performed. After the procedure, patients are monitored for a short period of time before returning home the same day.
Are vascular procedures painful?
Most minimally invasive vascular procedures cause very little discomfort. The access site is numbed with local anesthesia, and light sedation is often used to help you stay relaxed. Many patients are surprised by how comfortable the procedure is.
Am I too old for vascular treatment?
No. Age alone does not prevent patients from receiving treatment. In fact, minimally invasive procedures are often an excellent option for older patients because they avoid the risks and recovery time associated with major surgery.
What is recovery like after a minimally invasive vascular procedure?
Recovery is typically much faster than traditional surgery. Many patients are able to return to light activities within a few days. Your care team will provide detailed instructions to help ensure a smooth and safe recovery.
Do I need testing before treatment?
Yes. Diagnostic testing such as ultrasound imaging helps us understand how well blood is flowing through your arteries and veins. These tests guide the treatment plan and help determine the best options for your care. Testing and consultations can be done in the comfort of your own home.
Can minimally invasive treatments help prevent amputation?
In many cases, yes. By restoring blood flow and improving wound healing, minimally invasive vascular treatments can significantly reduce the risk of limb loss for patients with severe circulation problems.
How do I schedule a consultation?
Scheduling a consultation is simple. You can contact our office directly by phone or through the contact form on our website, and our team will help guide you through the next steps.