How to Choose a Vascular Surgeon?
By: Dr. Manish Mehta and Dr. Philip Paty, Vascular Health Partners of Community Care Physicians
With each heartbeat, healthy arteries and veins are literally what keep you alive, so choosing the right Vascular Surgeon is of critical importance!
Vascular disease affects the arteries and veins and has become one of the fastest-growing healthcare crises in the United States. If undiagnosed and untreated, vascular illness can lead to severe disability. Early signs can be as subtle as leg cramps during walking or leg swelling. While symptom progression can often lead to pain at rest & gangrene requiring amputations, stroke, or result in aneurysm rupture and death
Vascular surgeons are highly trained to manage peripheral arterial occlusive disease, aortic aneurysms, carotid artery blockages for stroke prevention, varicose veins, and venous insufficiency.
Here are 5 things to consider when choosing a vascular surgeon.
1. BOARD CERTIFICATION
The most important thing to know is the surgeon’s education, background, and experience.The best-trained vascular surgeons are trained and certified by the Vascular Surgery Board of the American Board of Surgery. You can easily find them on a patient friendly website of the American Board of Medical Specialties that allows patients to check if their doctors are Certified by the American Board of Surgery for free atwww.certificationmatters.org
2. EXPERIENCE COUNTS
The surgeon’s personal experiences in performing the procedure you need matters. Some surgeons perform a wide range of surgeries while others specialize in very specific procedures, perfecting their skills in a narrow area over many years. While making decisions, it can be helpful for patients to know of the surgeon’s skillset. It’s easy to understand how the phrase ‘Practice Makes Perfect’ applies to vascular surgeons, so don't be afraid to ask them ‘how many procedures of this type have you performed and what were the outcomes?’
3. PASSION BREEDS SUCCESS
Similar to most who excel in their sport, the best vascular surgeons are passionate about their field and through innovation and research incorporate cutting edge techniques and technology into their everyday patient care. Check to see if your vascular surgeon has a strong track record and lead the field of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery in research and innovation.
4. REPUTATION HOLDS
The best surgeons will have a great reputation both in the medical community and with their patients.You can start by asking your primary care physician who they recommend for vascular surgery and why. This is where most patients get their best advice.
If you know any friends, family members or co-workers who have needed vascular surgery, you shouldask them about their experiences. Hearing their first-hand stories of how happy they were with their surgeon and procedures can add some insight.
5. PERSONALITY MATTERS
While it’s not nearly as important as the first 4 considerations, your vascular surgeon’s personality may also play a significant role in your decision.You should feel comfortable with your surgeon, speak candidly about your medical problems, and openly discuss all treatment options. A commendable surgeon will take the time to make sure you understand all the risks and benefits of the procedure. This most likely will set the path towards better decisions and improved outcomes.
In the end, if you find a Reputable and Experienced Board Certified Vascular Surgeon with Passion and Personality, it is likely that you have chosen wisely and will have unparalleled vascular care.
Manish Mehta, MD, MPH and Philip S.K. Paty, MD are board certified vascular surgeons who specialize in minimally invasive endovascular and vascular surgical procedures. They practice at Vascular Health Partners of Community Care Physicians, with locations at 123 Quaker Road, Suite 106 in Queensbury and 84 East State Street in Gloversville. Call (518) 782-3900 for more information or for an appointment. www.VascularHealthPartners.com