Vascular Surgery

What is vascular surgery?
Vascular surgery is a specialty dedicated to the evaluation and treatment of diseases and conditions affecting the arteries and veins. These diseases include life-threatening aneurysms and blockages that slow or stop blood flow to the brain, limbs and all vital organs. If untreated, blood vessel problems can result in serious damage, such as limb-loss, kidney failure or strokes.

Vascular surgeons focus on preventing threatening conditions, while working to maintain each patient’s quality of life. This is accomplished through timely repair of aneurysms; stroke prevention with carotid artery surgery; and restoration of blood flow to threatened legs and organs with a variety of techniques.

UHN’s Vascular Surgery Care Area
Using leading-edge equipment, we diagnose and evaluate many different conditions affecting the blood vessels. Once we understand the seriousness of the condition, we identify treatment options and develop a treatment plan with the patient. Each year, 5,000 patients are referred for consultations and more than 800 major vascular reconstructions — life or limb saving operations — are performed.

Our vascular surgeons are assisted by a skilled interdisciplinary team, which includes nurses, technologists, physical and occupational therapists and dietitians, as well as numerous consultants. Together, we provide patient-centered care from initial consultation and investigation to surgery (if necessary) and follow up. In special cases, such as complex tumors or aneurysms, we team up with professionals in other specialties, such as neurosurgery, oncology, urology and cardiac surgery.

Tailoring care to the needs of patients
After the surgeon and our team of experts have thoroughly examined the patient, the surgeon and the patient will discuss additional possible investigations and treatment options. Sometimes surgery may not be necessary—diet or therapy can be used to treat many conditions. For certain conditions, less invasive alternatives such as angioplasty and stents may be suggested. If surgery is necessary, the patient will be admitted to Toronto General Hospital and cared for by a team that includes a surgeon, doctor, inpatient nurse coordinator and a floor nurse. During recovery, the patient may have assistance from dietitians or rehabilitation staff.