The relatively young field of vascular surgery has undergone a drastic evolution over the last few decades, shifting from open surgery to safer and less invasive endovascular procedures. These procedures, which treat blood vessel disorders from inside the vessel using balloons, stents and other devices, have been advanced by innovative surgeons like Dallas’ Dr. Russell Lam.
Prior to the 1990s most vascular conditions were diagnosed and treated using open surgery procedures first developed in the 50s and 60s. As technology improved, the subspecialties of vascular and endovascular surgery developed, borrowing techniques and knowledge from the fields of cardiology and radiology.
Initially, catheter-based procedures were used only to diagnose blood vessel disorders; however, as technology and imaging became more sophisticated, these procedures also began to be used to treat vascular conditions. Today, minimally invasive procedures are rapidly replacing major vascular surgery.
These advances mean patients can avoid large incisions, anesthesia, long hospital stays and extensive recovery periods. Technological advances also have led to earlier diagnosis of vascular conditions, which allows some patients to avoid surgical intervention all together by working with their medical team to make lifestyle changes.
Although surgery is sometimes still the best option for certain conditions and patients, new advances are consistently expanding the capabilities of endovascular treatments.
In Dallas, Dr. Lam offers the latest diagnostic tests and endovascular treatments for a variety of vascular conditions, including peripheral artery disease, carotid artery disease, varicose veins and aortic aneurysms.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Lam in Dallas to discuss the latest treatment options by calling 214.345.4160 or click here to request an appointment online.
The information contained in this article is not intended to be used as a substitute for medical advice. Patient results will vary based on risk factors, age, disease and medical history and are not guaranteed in any way.
