Patient Education

There is a broad spectrum of blood vessel diseases. Any blood vessel in the body can be affected.

 

ANEURYSM

Any artery, especially large ones, can become aneurysunal. Aortic aneurysms are especially dangerous because the aorta is the largest artery in the body. However, the chance (risk) of rupture depends on the size (width).

CAROTID DISEASE

Carotid arteries provide most blood (over 70%) to the brain, and many strokes occur because of carotid artery problems (usually narrowing).

CONGENITAL

Babies can be born with vascular problems and they are usually treated by Pediatric Surgeons at B.C. Children’s Hospital.

PERIPHERAL ARTERIAL DISEASE

The most common is Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). This refers to conditions resulting in narrowing or blockage of major arteries in the body. So-called hardening of the arteries. There is a strong link to diabetes, cigarette smoking, obesity, diet, high blood pressure (hypertension), lack of exercise, stress, genetics and age, among others.

TRAUMA

Blood vessels can be injured in motor vehicle accidents, work place accidents, stab or gunshot wounds, and sometimes during non-vascular surgical operations.

VENOUS PROBLEMS

Usually varicose veins. Venous disease is more common than arterial disease. Symptoms like pain and swelling can be quite bothersome, but unlike arterial problems, are rarely limb or life threatening.